Action plan – Gjakova, Kosovo, 2024 – 2025

At-a-Glance

Duration

Dec 2025

Date Submitted

29th November 2024

Foreword(s)

The Municipality of Gjakova is proud to present this Local Action Plan for Open Governance, developed through the collaborative efforts of government representatives and civil society organizations. This plan represents our shared commitmentOGP commitments are promises for reform co-created by governments and civil society and submitted as part of an action plan. Commitments typically include a description of the problem, concrete action... to fostering transparencyAccording to OGP’s Articles of Governance, transparency occurs when “government-held information (including on activities and decisions) is open, comprehensive, timely, freely available to the pub... More, accountability, and inclusivity in local governance, ensuring that the voices of all citizens, including marginalized and sensitive groups, are heard and reflected in decision-making processes.

This ambitious plan aligns with international standards and best practices, underscoring our vision to make Gjakova a model of democratic values, sustainable development, and participatory governance. Through this plan, we aim to address critical priorities such as the digitalization of services, the enhancement of citizen participationAccording to OGP’s Articles of Governance, citizen participation occurs when “governments seek to mobilize citizens to engage in public debate, provide input, and make contributions that lead to m... More, and the implementation of innovative environmental initiatives.

The Municipal Transparency Forum, established as a cornerstone of this collaboration, will play a key role in the implementation and monitoring of the plan. Comprising representatives from civil society, the municipal executive, political parties, and the private sectorGovernments are working to open private sector practices as well — including through beneficial ownership transparency, open contracting, and regulating environmental standards. Technical specificat..., the Forum ensures a balanced and inclusive approach to governance. Regular meetings, progress reports, and thematic working groups will provide a structured framework for monitoring commitments and addressing challenges.

To keep the public informed and engaged, results and updates will be shared transparently through the Municipality’s official channels, including the website, social media, and public forums. This ensures that citizens remain active participants in our journey toward achieving the goals of the Action Plan.

We are committed to working together to build a governance model that serves the needs of every resident of Gjakova, fostering trust, collaboration, and sustainable progress. This Action Plan is not just a roadmap but a shared vision for a brighter and more inclusive future.

Open Government Challenges, Opportunities and Strategic Vision

What is the long-term vision for open government in your context and jurisdiction?

Since the start of the current mandate, the Municipality of Gjakova has implemented concrete measures to enhance transparency, accountability, and citizen participation in decision-making. Guided by the principles of the Open Government PartnershipThe Open Government Partnership (OGP) is a multi-stakeholder initiative focused on improving government transparency, ensuring opportunities for citizen participation in public matters, and strengthen... More (OGP), our long-term vision focuses on three key areas:

• Enhancing citizens’ quality of life through digitalization: We aim to transform municipal services by making them more accessible, efficient, and tailored to community needs. This digital transformationGovernments are working to increase access to and quality of government services, improve transparency, and create opportunities for participation by using information and communications technologies.... ensures streamlined services that simplify daily life for all citizens.
• Fostering inclusive and collaborative governance: By utilizing co-creation spaces within the Municipality, we actively engage citizens in policymaking and decision-making. This approach strengthens local democracy by ensuring that every voice is heard and taken into account, promoting a culture of openness and shared responsibility.
• Leading in environmental sustainability: Gjakova is committed to becoming a regional leader in sustainable practices by adopting innovative waste management solutions, implementing environmentally friendly policies, and prioritizing climate action. Our efforts aim to inspire positive change and establish Gjakova as a model of sustainable living for future generations.

Through these pillars, we envision Gjakova as a transparent, inclusive, and innovative municipality that sets a benchmark for open governance and sustainable development.

What are the achievements in open government to date (for example, recent open government reforms)?

During this mandate, the Municipality of Gjakova has implemented initiatives to advance open, transparent, accountable, and inclusive governance. Key achievements include:

• YouthRecognizing that investing in youth means investing in a better future, OGP participating governments are creating meaningful opportunities for youth to participate in government processes. Technical ... Empowerment: A dedicated budget line supports youth-focused initiatives and projects, complemented by a Youth Action Plan that provides grants for local NGOs, fostering engagement and opportunities for young people.
• Transparency and Public Access: Citizen access to public information has improved through the regular publication of executive and legislative documents on official channels, enhancing transparency and accountability.
• Infrastructure Accessibility: Significant investments were made to upgrade all schools and renovate public buildings, ensuring accessibility for persons with disabilities and improving infrastructure for all citizens.
• Digitalization of Services: Gjakova has led in digital governanceAs evolving technologies present new opportunities for governments and citizens to advance openness and accountability, OGP participating governments are working to create policies that deal with the ... by launching the “e-School” platform for tracking student progress, integrating the “e-Procurement” national platform to streamline procedures and enable digital tracking of invoices, and introducing kiosks for citizens to access official documents efficiently.
• Cross-Sector Collaboration: Communication and collaboration channels have been established between municipal departments and local public-private enterprises to improve governance and service delivery.

What are the current challenges/areas for improvement in open government that the jurisdiction wishes to tackle?

Our municipality has made significant progress in fostering open, transparent, accountable, and inclusive governance, yet challenges remain to be addressed:

• Youth Engagement: While a dedicated budget line supports youth projects, identifying the specific needs of Gjakova’s youth is crucial to addressing their challenges and aspirations effectively.
• Access to Public Information: Despite improvements, citizens still face difficulties accessing municipal information. Simplifying and accelerating access will enhance their experience with services, encourage participation, and build trust in local institutions.
• Public Infrastructure Accessibility: Recent upgrades to schools and public buildings have improved conditions, but more efforts are needed to ensure full accessibility, particularly for persons with disabilities. We aim to advance infrastructure projects for greater inclusionOGP participating governments are working to create governments that truly serve all people. Commitments in this area may address persons with disabilities, women and girls, lesbian, gay, bisexual, tr....
• Further Digitalization: Platforms like “e-School” and “e-Procurement,” along with e-kiosks, have improved governance, but challenges persist. Expanding technology use and developing innovative solutions will boost citizen satisfaction.
• Intersectoral Collaboration: While progress has been made, enhanced coordination between municipal departments and public-private enterprises is needed. We aim to develop mechanisms to improve service delivery and foster partnerships.

By addressing these areas, Gjakova is committed to advancing open governance and delivering better services to its citizens.

What are the medium-term open government goals that the government wants to achieve?

The medium-term goals for open governance in the Municipality of Gjakova include:

• Digitalization of Municipal Services: A key priority is the full digitalization of the procurement process through the “e-Procurement” national platform. This will ensure that every stage of procurement is conducted digitally, improving efficiency, transparency, and accountability. It will also enhance collaboration between municipal departments and units, creating a more streamlined and effective governance process.
• Increasing Citizen Participation: The Municipality aims to deepen citizen engagement in decision-making by leveraging its co-creation platform, the Municipal Transparency Forum. This forum brings together civil servants, municipal assembly members, and representatives of local civil society organizations to foster dialogue and joint decision-making. Strengthening partnerships with NGOs will ensure more inclusive participation, particularly by engaging marginalized groups and diverse communities to reflect the needs and voices of all residents of Gjakova.
• Environmental and Climate Improvements: The Municipality is committed to addressing environmental and climate challenges by introducing innovative policies and sustainable practices. Efforts will focus on waste management, renewable energyEnsuring universal access to sustainable, dependable, and affordable energy is critical to every aspect of prosperity. Increasing public oversight and transparency in the energy sector can help to ens... initiatives, and community-driven climate action programs, ensuring Gjakova becomes a leader in promoting a greener and more sustainable future.

How does this action plan contribute to achieve the Open Government Strategic Vision?

Aligned with the goals of the current municipal administration for open governance, the Action Plan contributes to the strategic vision through three key areas:

• Openness and Transparency: The plan focuses on digitalizing municipal services to provide citizens with faster and easier access while ensuring greater transparency in procurement processes. This enhances accountability, reduces inefficiencies, and builds trust in governance.
• Citizen Participation: Addressing limited public involvement, the Municipality will use the Municipal Transparency Forum to strengthen collaboration with civil society organizations. This initiative ensures broader and more inclusive participation, allowing diverse voices to shape decision-making processes.
• Environmental Protection and Climate Action: The Municipality plans to address illegal waste dumping, harmful tire burning, and inadequate waste management. Key measures include expanding the district heating network, developing innovative inert waste treatment solutions, and creating a strategic recycling plan. These efforts aim to protect the environment, improve citizens’ quality of life, and contribute to global climate goals.

These commitments underline Gjakova’s dedication to transparent, participatory, and sustainable governance.

How does the open government strategic vision contribute to the accomplishment of the current administration’s overall policy goals?

The strategic vision for open governance directly supports the Municipality of Gjakova’s goals of enhancing transparency, accountability, and citizen participation in decision-making. By aligning with international standards and best practices, this vision strengthens the municipality’s capacity to implement democratic values effectively. It positions Gjakova as an active member of the global community advocating for open governance, fostering trust between citizens and local institutions, and promoting inclusive and sustainable development.

Engagement and Coordination in the Open Government Strategic Vision and OGP Action Plan

Please list the lead institutions responsible for the implementation of this OGP action plan.

• Mayor
• Municipal Directorates
• Information Office
• Procurement Office

What kind of institutional arrangements are in place to coordinate between government agencies and departments to implement the OGP action plan?

On July 27, 2023, the Municipality of Gjakova established the Municipal Transparency Forum, an inclusive advisory mechanism for co-creation, coordination, and implementation of the Open Governance Action Plan.

The Municipal Transparency Forum consists of representatives from Gjakova’s executive and legislative branches, as well as members of local civil society organizations active in various fields. The Forum has several key functions:

• Developing the Action Plan: Defining key commitments for the Municipality to achieve within a specified timeframe.
• Hosting Regular Meetings: Providing a platform for members to discuss issues related to the commitments of the Action Plan.
• Creating a Collaborative Space: Facilitating cooperation between the Municipality, civil society organizations, and other groups and communities living and working in Gjakova.

Additionally, the Board of DirectorsThe OGP Board of Directors provides the fiduciary and legal oversight of the OGP Support Unit and the Independent Reporting Mechanism, which is housed within the OGP Secretariat, a US-based 501 (c)(3)... serves as a crucial coordination and alignment mechanism within the executive branch of local governance. Together, these structures enable the Municipality to enhance transparency, inclusivity, and collaboration, ensuring that governance aligns with the needs and priorities of its citizens.

What kind of spaces have you used or created to enable the collaboration between government and civil society in the co-creation and implementation of this action plan? Mention both offline and online spaces.

The Municipality of Gjakova has utilized various spaces and methods to facilitate collaboration between local governance and civil society for the co-creation and implementation of the Action Plan.

• Municipal Spaces: The Municipality has provided its own facilities to host meetings, discussions, and workshops, ensuring accessibility and a formal environment for collaboration.
• Contracted Private Spaces: In cases where additional or specialized spaces were required, private venues were contracted to host workshops and collaborative sessions, offering a neutral and inclusive setting.
• Digital Collaboration Tools: To complement physical spaces, shared documents and collaborative platforms were employed, allowing stakeholders to contribute and provide feedback remotely.
• Online Meetings: Recognizing the importance of flexibility and accessibility, virtual meetings were frequently held, ensuring that all stakeholders could participate regardless of their location or time constraints.

These diverse approaches have ensured that collaboration between the Municipality and civil society is inclusive, efficient, and continuous, fostering a strong foundation for the successful implementation of the Action Plan.

What measures did you take to ensure diversity of representation (including vulnerable or marginalized populations) in these spaces?

The Municipality of Gjakova has taken deliberate steps to ensure that all voices, including those of sensitive and marginalized groups, are represented in decision-making and policymaking processes.

A key initiative is the establishment of the Municipal Transparency Forum, designed to promote inclusivity in local governance. This forum serves as a platform for diverse stakeholders to actively participate in shaping and implementing policies and plans.

Local civil society organizations (CSOs) that are members of the Forum have been carefully selected to represent and advocate for the rights of specific groups, including:

• Youth: Ensuring that the perspectives and needs of younger generations are addressed in governance.
• Women: Promoting genderOGP participating governments are bringing gender perspectives to popular policy areas, ensuring diversity in participatory processes, and specifically targeting gender gaps in policies to address gov... equality and empowering women to contribute to decision-making processes.
• People with DisabilitiesA government is not open unless it is accessible to all, and governments are working to ensure people with disabilities are afforded equitable services and opportunities to participate. Technical spec...: Advocating for accessibility and inclusive policies that cater to their specific needs.
• Non-Majority Communities: Representing the voices of minority groups residing in Gjakova to foster diversity and equality.

In addition to the Forum, the Municipality has encouraged open dialogue through public consultations and workshops, ensuring that marginalized groups have the opportunity to participate and contribute. Collaboration has been supported by both physical and digital spaces, including online tools, shared documents, and virtual meetings, to ensure maximum accessibility and representation.

Who participated in these spaces?

The co-creation processCollaboration between government, civil society and other stakeholders (e.g., citizens, academics, private sector) is at the heart of the OGP process. Participating governments must ensure that a dive... has involved a diverse range of participants to ensure inclusivity and a holistic approach to policymaking and implementation. Key groups include:

• Representatives of Civil Society: Local organizations focusing on youth, women, persons with disabilities, and non-majority communities have actively contributed to discussions, ensuring that the needs and perspectives of various societal groups are reflected in the process.
• Municipal Civil Servants: Officials from different departments within the Municipality have participated, providing technical expertise and aligning the process with municipal priorities and capabilities.
• Members of the Municipal Assembly: Elected representatives have played a crucial role in shaping discussions and decisions, ensuring alignment with legislative frameworks and the broader community’s interests.
• Representatives of the Private Sector: Local businesses and entrepreneurs have participated, offering insights on economic development and sustainability, and highlighting the role of the private sector in supporting community growth.

This broad participation has fostered a collaborative environment, ensuring that the co-creation process is inclusive, representative, and responsive to the needs of all stakeholders.

How many groups participated in these spaces?

6

How many public-facing meetings were held in the co-creation process?

15

How will government and non-governmental stakeholders continue to collaborate through the implementation of the action plan?

The collaboration between the Municipality of Gjakova and civil society for the implementation of the Action Plan will continue through regular and structured engagement:

• Regular Meetings of the Municipal Transparency Forum: The Forum will convene on a monthly basis to discuss the progress of commitments and address any challenges encountered during implementation. These meetings will serve as a platform for monitoring and ensuring accountability.
• Involvement of Additional Stakeholders: When needed, the Forum will invite other actors, such as experts, community leaders, or institutional representatives, to participate in meetings and contribute to or support key activities that advance the commitments outlined in the Action Plan.
• Thematic Working Groups: The Forum may establish specialized working groups to focus on specific themes related to the commitments. These groups will analyze the current situation, identify challenges, and propose concrete steps to ensure the successful implementation of the commitments.

This structured and inclusive approach ensures that collaboration remains dynamic, adaptive, and effective in addressing the needs of the community and achieving the goals of the Action Plan.

Please describe the Independent Monitoring Body you have identified for this plan.

The implementation of the Action Plan will be overseen by a dedicated monitoring mechanism established by the Municipal Transparency Forum.

This monitoring body will have a diverse composition to ensure balanced oversight, including:

• Civil Society Representatives: The majority of the members will come from local civil society organizations, ensuring that the process remains transparent and citizen-centered.
• Political Party Representatives: Members from different political parties will provide a legislative perspective and ensure political accountability.
• Executive Representatives: Participants from the municipal executive branch will contribute technical expertise and ensure alignment with ongoing municipal operations.

This body will regularly review the progress of the commitments in the Action Plan, identify challenges, and provide recommendations for adjustments or additional measures as needed. By incorporating a wide range of stakeholders, the monitoring mechanism ensures accountability, inclusivity, and the effective implementation of the Plan.

Provide the contact details for the independent monitoring body.

• Arbër Lleshi, Director of Bonevet Gjakova, arberlleshi@bonevet.org
• Behar Ferizi, Chief Executive Officer of Regional Waste Company “Çabrati”, behar.ferizi@oek-kcc.org

What types of activities will you have in place to discuss progress on commitments with stakeholders?

To ensure regular discussions and updates on the progress of implementing the commitments outlined in the Action Plan, the following activities are planned:

• Periodic Meetings: Meetings will be organized every two to three months in the Municipality’s premises to review the progress of commitments, address challenges, and identify solutions.
• Ad Hoc Meetings: Additional meetings may be scheduled as needed to address urgent issues or specific aspects of the Action Plan that require immediate attention.
• Progress Reporting: Each meeting will include updates from the relevant stakeholders, including civil society representatives, municipal departments, and working groups, to ensure that all voices are heard and progress is transparently shared.

These activities will provide a structured and inclusive approach to monitoring progress, fostering accountability, and facilitating collaboration among all stakeholders.

How will you regularly check in on progress with implementing agencies?

Regular monitoring of the implementation progress will be carried out through the Oversight Mechanism established by the Municipal Transparency Forum. The following steps will be taken:

• Periodic Meetings: Progress updates will be discussed during scheduled meetings held every two to three months. These meetings will provide a platform for commitment holders to report on their activities, challenges, and results.
• Reporting: Commitment holders will prepare and present detailed progress reports during these meetings. The reports will outline the status of implementation, milestones achieved, and any obstacles faced.
• Follow-Up Actions: Based on the reports and discussions, the Oversight Mechanism will provide feedback, propose adjustments, and coordinate further steps to ensure commitments are on track for successful implementation.

This structured process ensures transparency, accountability, and continuous collaboration between all stakeholders involved in the Action Plan.

How will you share the results of your monitoring efforts with the public?

The public will be informed about the results of the monitoring process through the Municipality’s official communication channels, ensuring transparency and accessibility. These channels include:

• Municipal Website: Regular updates and detailed reports will be published on the Municipality’s official website, providing citizens with comprehensive information on the progress of commitments.
• Social Media Platforms: Key updates, summaries, and announcements will be shared on the Municipality’s social media pages to reach a wider audience quickly and effectively.
• Public Meetings: When necessary, public meetings or forums will be organized to present results and gather feedback directly from citizens.
• Press Releases: Reports and key achievements will also be communicated through local media to ensure broader public awareness.

This approach ensures that the public remains informed, engaged, and empowered to hold the Municipality accountable for the implementation of the Action Plan.

Endorsement from Non-Governmental Stakeholders

• Brilanda Batalla, Director, Handikos Gjakova
• Nora Shehu, Director, Medika
• Dorina Lluka, Director, YMCA
• Ideal Zhaveli, Director, Activism Roots
• Valbona Doli, Director, Active Women of Gjakova
• Ergit Qeli, Project Manager, Community Committee
• Art Kupa, Project Manager, OSCE

Commitments:

• Digitalization of municipal services.
• Enhancing inclusive citizen engagement in key decision-making processes.
• Enhancing waste management and environmental protection through public awareness, community involvement, and new regulations.

Call for Public Consultation for Developing Local Action Plan