The event marks the official launch of the Public Servants’ Capacity Building and Mobility Programme 3.0, an initiative designed to foster knowledge exchange, institutional cooperation, and administrative excellence between the Western Balkans and the Italian administration. The initiative is supported by the Italian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MFA) and implemented in partnership between ReSPA and the Italian National School of Administration (SNA).

Over the past two years, the Capacity Building and Mobility Programme has brought public servants from the Western Balkans into direct contact with Italy’s rich administrative traditions and innovative governance practices. More than 100 public servants across the region have benefited from the programme’s two previous editions, participating in high-quality training modules, peer exchanges, mobility visits, and high-level policy dialogue. From the lecture halls of Caserta and Bari to immersive learning experiences and ministerial-level discussions in Rome, the programme has generated tangible results: participants returned to their administrations equipped not only with new knowledge, but also with professional networks, practical tools, and a renewed commitment to public service and reform.

In 2026, the programme enters a new phase, building on this strong foundation while introducing a more focused and impact-oriented design. The new edition moves beyond previous formats by concentrating on three high-impact thematic streams that reflect Italy’s strongest areas of expertise and respond directly to the most pressing reform needs of Western Balkan administrations. It will engage 48 public servants from the Western Balkans—eight from each administration. The three thematic streams focus on: Digital Transformation of Public Services, Strengthening Local-Level Administrations and EU Funds Project Management, and Leadership for Public Sector Transformation. In parallel, a horizontal on-demand technical assistance facility will provide tailored support to administrations through customised training, short-term expertise, and scholarships for specialised courses in Italy.

Through strategic presentations on Italy’s National Recovery and Resilience Plan and the EU Growth Plan for the Western Balkans, followed by an interactive World Café session, the launching event will combine policy insight with participatory dialogue to shape shared expectations and priorities for the programme’s implementation.