From 18 to 21 August 2025, ReSPA facilitated and supported the participation of seven public officials from the Western Balkans in the EU Better Regulation International Summer School held in Tirana under the theme: “Get yourself going to 2029 – How to work with evidence-based decision-making in the EU?”

During four intensive days, participants engaged in lectures, discussions, and practical exercises focusing on:

• The EU policy cycle and strategic planning;

• The role and process of Impact Assessments;

• Evidence-based policy-making in the European Commission, European Parliament, and Council;

• The challenge of balancing politics and evidence in fast-moving environments;

• Case studies addressing sustainability and finance.

The Summer School gathered renowned experts, including Erik Akse from the Impact Assessment Institute and Joost Mulder, who shared their knowledge and facilitated interactive sessions designed to strengthen participants’ understanding and application of evidence-based policy-making.

In the closing session, Genti Xhaxhiu, ReSPA Programme Coordinator, underlined the value of the programme, stressing that Impact Assessment is a key instrument for shaping effective legislation and public policies in the Western Balkans and beyond.

By supporting participation in initiatives such as this Summer School, ReSPA continues to empower public officials across the region with the skills and tools necessary to contribute to evidence-based governance and EU integration processes.