Structured dialogue with the diaspora is essential to increase development potential

A round table on “Opportunities and challenges of municipal administration in meeting the demands of the diaspora” was held at the premises of the KLGI Institute, discussing the role of local institutions and other actors in providing services, communication and interaction with the diaspora.

This meeting was part of a series of activities by the organisation Germin, while this activity with local actors was co-…organised with the KLGI Institute. Present at the meeting were representatives of central and local institutions, with a focus on municipalities with the largest diaspora populations.

Through discussion, the round table aimed to increase inter-institutional communication in order to address the challenges faced by the diaspora, from administrative services to communication and institutional support. The meeting also discussed the role of the home country in the field of education and cultural affirmation.

The role and commitment of the Ministry of Diaspora in supporting, promoting and addressing the challenges faced by the diaspora were highlighted. The role of municipalities and sectoral ministries during the diaspora’s stay in Kosovo was also discussed.

Despite institutional efforts, whether by extending opening hours for administrative services or by creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere, the diaspora still faces major problems, among the most prominent being long waits and difficulties when travelling to and from Kosovo.

Meanwhile, at the cultural and socio-economic level, a fragmented approach still persists; as a result, not only are cultural divergences being created but, above all, no genuine dialogue has been built, let alone a joint agenda.

Consequently, society and institutions are not reflecting enough on the role of the diaspora as an ever-open window onto integrative models, values and aims. Beyond this, the lack of proactive dialogue and strategic communication means that the diaspora’s great potential for economic development is being lost.

In this spirit, the organisation Germin is serving as an important link and communicator between the diaspora, institutions and society. The KLGI Institute therefore remains committed to supporting and cooperating in increasing the engagement of local actors and communication with the diaspora, as the greatest opportunity and potential for economic development.