The KLGI Institute focused on analysing and addressing problems in local finance

The KLGI Institute is continuing its contribution to the forums of local authorities on the development of the municipal budget process for the 2018–2020 period.

At the forum held with the Peja and Prizren regions, the KLGI Institute representative, Mr Besnik Muçaj, followed the proceedings and received summary information from representatives of the Ministry of Finance and municipal leaders on budgetary aspects.

The main purpose of these forums is to develop the budget process, advance the concept of multi-year projects and build capacity for efficient financial management. The forums are organised by the Ministry of Finance, municipalities, international partners and local organisations.

The forum discussed the challenges and prospects of local finance. It also looked at the progress achieved and the commitment of the Ministry of Finance, municipalities and other actors to advancing financial management and improving processes.

Concerns were also raised about municipalities’ lack of operating expenditure, financing through specific grants and other budgetary aspects. On this occasion the main conclusion was that Kosovo’s budget is a single budget and care must be taken with current expenditure, as each factor has an impact on the chain of actions.

In this vein, addressing the regulation on NGO funding and advancing gender-responsive budgeting were welcomed. The message was also given that the upcoming elections in municipalities must not affect budget discipline and procedures.

For the KLGI Institute, these forums are particularly important for obtaining input for further analysis in the process of drafting the Law on Local Government Finance.