The Common Assessment Framework (CAF) continues to gain strong momentum across the Western Balkans, with increasing adoption as a key instrument for strengthening quality management systems and enhancing public service delivery. In recent months alone, eight public institutions across the region have successfully implemented CAF, with additional institutions currently preparing to follow this path.

This growing uptake confirms CAF’s role as a strategic tool for enhancing governance, reinforcing organisational performance, and embedding a culture of continuous improvement within public administrations. Through CAF implementation, institutions across the region have reported tangible improvements in internal processes and procedures, stronger teamwork, and a more systematic approach to excellence in public service.

Serbia: Sustaining Commitment to Quality

In Serbia, the Office for Combating Drugs has implemented CAF for the second time, underlining a clear commitment to continuous improvement and organisational excellence. Led by Director Milan Pekić, the institution has demonstrated how CAF can be effectively used as an ongoing management tool, rather than a one-off exercise. The process was carried out in close cooperation with the Ministry of Public Administration and Local Self-Government (MDULS) and ReSPA, with professional facilitation provided by Marija Petrović (MDULS) and Slaven Bukarica (ReSPA).

North Macedonia: Advancing Quality Through Institutional Leadership

In North Macedonia, two central government institutions have successfully implemented their CAF, reflecting a shared commitment to quality management.

The Ministry of Public Administration implemented CAF with the support of Minister Goran Minchev and the active engagement of its CAF self-assessment group. The process was supported by local expert Martin Todevski and resulted in a comprehensive and actionable improvement plan.

At the same time, the Ministry of European Affairs completed its CAF process through the strong leadership of State Secretary Arlinda Gjakova, Advisor to the Minister Laura Ajdini, and Valentina Janevska, CAF Manager. The process was further supported by local expert Igor Markovski and a highly committed CAF self-assessment team, demonstrating the value of teamwork and institutional ownership in driving quality reforms.

Montenegro: Scaling Up CAF for Systemic Improvement

Montenegro is further strengthening its use of CAF as a tool for systemic improvement and enhanced public service delivery. With the support of the ReSPA Regional Quality Management Centre (RQMC), the Ministry of Public Administration of Montenegro is rolling out on-demand CAF support across several institutions, with expert guidance provided by Goran Pastrović and Igor Markovski.

Institutions currently involved in this process include the Agency for Personal Data Protection and Free Access to Information, the Secretariat for Local Self-Government and Cooperation with Civil Society Organisations of the Capital City of Podgorica, and the Ministry of Energy and Mining. Particular recognition is extended to Sladjana Andjušić and her team from the Municipality of Podgorica, as well as Maja Žunjić Mitrović, Enesa Rastoder, and Dragutin Kalezić, for their leadership, professionalism, and dedication to quality management.

Each new CAF implementation contributes to building stronger, more resilient, and more citizen-oriented public administrations across the Western Balkans. ReSPA, through its RQMC team, remains fully committed to supporting institutions in their efforts to institutionalise quality management, promote excellence, and deliver better outcomes for citizens.