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The Association of Cities and Municipalities of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina is an independent organization whose main goal is development of local self government.
The Association aims to provide professional services to local governments through the Association and to advocate their common interests at the state and the Federation level. Today the Association of Municipalities and Cities of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina represents interests of 78 municipalities.
News
- NALAS elects new Executive Bureau
- Amendment proposals to Constitution of B&H delivered to Parliamentary Assembly of B&H
- Proposals to Constitution of B&H
- Interest for Cooperation - Municipality Amfiklia (Greece) Interest for coperation - Municipality Gaziantep Sahinbay (Turkey)
- PRESIDENCY OF THE ASSOCIATION OF CITIES AND MUNICIPALITIES OF FBiH HELD ITS 2nd ASSEMBLY
ANNOUNCMENT
V ASSEMBLY OF THE
ASSOCIATION OF MUNICIPALITIES AND CITIES OF THE FEDERATION OF BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA
LOCAL GOVERNMENT FINANCE IN FACE OF THE GLOBAL RECESSION
May 7, 2010
Hotel "Sunce", Neum
Bosna i Hercegovina
Adresa: Sunčana obala bb
Tel: +387 (36) 880-033 do 042
01.02.2010
NALAS elects new Executive Bureau
On 29 January 2010, the NALAS Committee of Liaison Officers elected a new Executive Bureau. The Executive Bureau for 2010 consists of Ms Zorica Vukelic from the Standing Conference of Towns and Municipalities in Serbia, Mr Sazan Ibrahimi from the Association of Kosovo Municipalities and Ms Vesna Travljanin from the Association of Municipalities and Cities of the Federation of Bosnia and Hercegovina as treasurer. The Executive Bureau consists of two liaison officers, a NALAS Treasurer, the NALAS President and the NALAS Executive Director.
NALAS is a network of associations of local authorities in South Eastern Europe. It gathers roughly 4000 local authorities, directly elected by more than 80 million ...
25.01.2010
Amendment proposals to Constitution of B&H delivered to Parliamentary Assembly of B&H
On the press conference, held on December 16, 2009 in Parliamentary Assembly of Bosnia and Herzegovina, public was presented with the results of the project "Constitutional reform- Public discussions in local communities". Representatives of Association of municipalities and cities of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina and Republic of Srpska submited their recommendations to constitutional comissions of Representatives House and House of Peoples of Parliamentary Assembly of B&H with the goal to consider position of local self-government and initiate solutions according to standards defined in European Charter on Local Self- Government.
Association of municipalities and cities of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina and Association of municipalities and cities of Republic of Srpska (hereinafter: Associations) prepared and enforced within the project "Constitutional reform- Public discussions in local communities" 16 public debates in local communities throughout Bosnia and Herzegovina which participated more than 800 citizens, official representatives of municipalities and cities (municipality and city mayors, presidentials of municipality and city councils and assemblies, councilors), official representatives of higher government levels (cantons, Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina and Republic of Srpska), representatives of civil society and citizens.
In co-operation with expert team constituted of university professors from Federation of B&H and Republic of Srpska, Associations succesfully organised public discussions in Bijeljina, Biha?, Banja Luka, Zenica, Živinice, Isto?no Sarajevo, Mostar, Nevesinje, Fo?a, Vitez, Doboj, Grada?ac, Tomislavgrad, Srbac, Mili?i and Goražde. Public discussions assembled more than seventy (70) of total of 144 units of local self-government in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Participants of all public discussions had the opportunity to meet the stands of local experts in the field of constitutional law regarding different aspects in relation between local self-government and Constitution of B&H, as well as possibilities for improving position of local self-government. Moreover, through an open and democratic discussion, participants have utilised given opportunity and contributed discussions by revealing their own experience, evaluation, stands, suggestions and problems, as well as advisable solutions in the context of ongoing political process of constitutional changes in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Objective of Associations, as legitimate representatives of local communities in B&H, was double: First was to approach the constitutional changes process to local communities, and second, to articulate expectations of local communities from the constitutional changes process and possible future position of local self- government in the Constitution of B&H.
Objectives of discussions were formulating visions, aspirations and needs of local communities with regard to constitutional changes process that would create conditions for more efficient work of local communities and achieving high standards in providing service for citizens. Discussions provided opportunity for local communities to express their oppinion and expectations.
Discussions included topics such as: constitutional position of local self-government and possible guidelines for constitutional reform, constitutional and other forms of protection of local communities, implementation of European standards and principles of European Charter on Local Self-Government.
Having in mind basic characteristics of constitutional structure of Bosnia and Herzegovina and entities, situation and problems of local self-government were reviewed. Discussions identified problems mutual to all municipalities in B&H, such as:
- rights and jurisdictions of local self-government, and according to this, resources and ways of financing.
- citizens participation in officiating public work of local communities.
- utilising resources in local communities.
Within this activity, and with intention to get as much clear notion of perception of constitutional changes in local communities in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Human Rights Center of University of Sarajevo prepared a survey for all participants of public discussions that relates to their personal stands on constitutional changes and their connection to local communities.
Cumulative results indicate that on the state level prevails oppinion that changes need to be focused on strengthening local self-government (29%) and respecting human rights (25,4%).
With the support of expert teams, Associations prepared recommendations that were delivered to constitutional commissions of Representatives House and House of Peoples of Parliamentary Assembly of B&H, with the goal to consider position of local self-government and initiate solutions according to standards defined in European Charter on Local Self- Government, having in mind that Bosnia and Herzegovina ratified this Charter, as well as both entities. Human Rights Center of University of Sarajevo coordinated and implemented this project.
Swiss Government has in 2006 identified providing support to citizens and government of B&H in their efforts related to constitutional changes process as one of its main priorities, as well as distributing as much information on constitutional changes process as possible. In these efforts, aimed at local communities, that carry large responsibility towards well being of citizens in every day life, Swiss Confederation supported Associations in organising public discussions, and identifying needs of local communities. Swiss Confederation will continue providing support to all relevant actors in all government levels in finding best solution in the next year as well.
Association of municipalities and cities FBiH
Amendments to the Constitution of Bosnia and Herzegovina
Proposals to Constitution of B&H
In the Constitution of Bosnia and Herzegovina, after Article VII, new Article VII A shall be amended and shall read:
Article VII A
Local Self- Government
1. Definition
a) Citizens have the right and liability to decide on authentic, transferred and entrusted rights in the units of local self- government ( municipalities and towns) in accordance with the Constitution and Law. Those rights shall be achieved through directly elected municipal and town assemblies, respectively, municipal and town councils, and municipal and town mayors. The Law and the Statute shall regulate form and methods of direct citizen participation in managing public affairs of local community.
Alternative:
a) Citizen's right to local self- government shall be guaranteed in accordance with the highest international standards, Constitution and the Law.
2. Jurisdiction
a) Local self-government unit, in accordance with the Constitution and the Law, shall have jurisdiction that primarily include: implementation and protection of human rights and freedoms; development planning; management of space; urbanistic planning; housing policy; managing natural resources; communal infrastructure; pre-school and primary education; culture and sports.
b) Higher authorities shall, when in interest of citizens, confide matters of their jurisdiction to the units of local self-government.
c) Local authorities shall be consulted in the planning process, decision making process and process of adopting decisions regarding all issues that directly affect them to the maximum extent possible, in due time and in a corresponding way.
Alternative 1.
a) Minimum one position for representatives of each constituent peoples shall be ensured in assemblies, respectively councils of local self-government units, under the condition that population structure of that unit, according to last population census, included at least 3% of representatives of correspondent constituent peoples. Representatives of national minorities shall be ensured with at least one position for each national minority, under the condition that this national minority formed at least 1% of population according to population census from 1991.
b) Council for protection of national interests shall be established in local self-government units. The State Law shall regulate: election procedure, jurisdictions, decision making process and other issues vital for its functioning.
3. Financing
a) Local self-government units shall have the right on respective financial resources and funds for performing transferred and entrusted matters. Financial sources of local self-government units shall be proportional to their jurisdiction.
b) The Law shall define principles and criteria for participation of local self-government units in authorization of public income proportionally to their jurisdiction and other relevant criteria.
c) The Law shall establish mechanisms and ensure instruments of solidarity in order to improve position of local self-government units that are under average activity rate. Those acts shall not narrow jurisdictions of local self-government.
4. Local self-government rights protection
a) Constitutional, judicial and other modes of local self-government protection shall be allocated. Local self-government protection shall be allocated by the Constitutional court of Bosnia and Herzegovina if repudiation occurred by acts or actions of institutions of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Local self-government protection procedure can be actuated by: municipal or town council; municipal or town assembly; municipal mayor or town mayor and respective association of municipalities and towns.
Explanation
Constitutional system established by Dayton Peace Accord has nearly depleted its potentials and has become a break for development of Bosnia and Herzegovina and its faster inclusion to Euro- Atlantic integrations. This confirm both local and international institutions, as well as political forces. However, great differences regarding depth and altitude of possible constitutional changes exist among them.
Unsuccessful attempt of revision of Constitution of Bosnia and Herzegovina through so-called April package of constitutional amendments showed that creating new constitutional solutions has to be a result of activities within system institutions, along with the engagement of wider round of citizens that are primarily concerned with this issue. Inclusion of expert and academic public, media and civil society failed on this occasion. Local communities were also excluded from this process.
Since January 2009, following requisite constitutional changes and trying to avoid previous deficiencies, associations of municipalities and towns of the Federation of BiH and Republic of Srpska, in cooperation and with the support of Embassy of Switzerland, Swiss Cooperation Office (SDC) and Human Rights Center of University of Sarajevo, implement a project "Contribution to constitutional reform in Bosnia and Herzegovina"- discussions in local communities.
Involvement of local authorities and civil society in public discussions contributed better understanding of content and necessity of constitutional changes. Broadly conceptualized discussions were held in eight regional centers of both entities where participants from different structures of 49 municipalities and towns of Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina and 22 municipalities from Republic of Srpska participated in above mentioned discussions. Media devoted significant attention to these discussions. Apart from representatives of local authority, civil society and non governmental sector, significant contribution was given by the experts that have, in a direct communication with other participants, helped understanding complex issues initiated in constitutional reform.
Project was finalized with the analysis of cognitions reached in these discussions and, by formulating proposals that will be forwarded to Parliamentary Assembly of Bosnia and Herzegovina and other actors of constitutional changes procedure in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Focus of discussions was on constitutional positioning of local self-government, although other relevant issues and problems could not be unattended.
Offered amendments set on estimation that it is inadmissible that the Constitution of Bosnia and Herzegovina does not contain neither one regulation on local self-government even though that represents an obligation which Bosnia and Herzegovina overtook by ratification European Charter of Local Self-Government. It is also estimated that the Constitution of Bosnia and Herzegovina has to provide sufficient guarantees of autonomic jurisdiction of municipalities and towns, ensure material foundation and financial sustainability of local self-government units, and guarantee constitutional, judicial and other ways of protecting local self-government rights.
Proposed amendments imply further constitutional, legal and statutory elaboration and guarantees on other levels of legal organization and within local self-government.
11.07.09
PRESIDENCY OF THE ASSOCIATION OF CITIES AND MUNICIPALITIES OF FBiH HELD ITS 2nd ASSEMBLY
On July 9th, 2009 in Siroki Brijeg, the Presidency of the Association of Cities and Municipalities of Federation of BiH held its 2nd Assembly. Members of the Presidency discussed current activities of the Association and stated their opinions on the issue of the Proposal of the Law on Local Self-Government Employees, the Association's Plan of Activities for the period of 2009-2010 (Programme orientation supplement) and Amendments on the Law on Tourism Organizations in the Federation of BiH.
Also, the Assembly included a discussion on the initiatives Visoko Municipality took concerning the change of the decision on maximum amounts for the direct expenses the insured persons have for the use of certain aspects of medical care included in overall Basic Medical Care Package ("FBiH Official Gazette", no. 21/09) and a decision that Jajce Municipality reached concerning the Law on Public Defender's Office of Central Bosnia Canton.
The Association's Administrative and Professional Service informed the Presidency about the realization of the conclusions reached during the 1st Assembly of the Presidency and about the activities the Association is implementing in partnership with UNDP, OSCE, SDC and other local and international partner organizations.
- PROPOSAL OF THE PLAN OF ACTIVITIES OF THE ASSOCIATION OF CITIES AND MUNICIPALITIES OF FBiH HAS BEEN ADOPTED-
The Association of Cities and Municipalities of Federation of BiH, as an independent organization of Municipalities and Cities joined together on a voluntary bases, has shown a significant progress in implementation of the interests of the Local Self-Government through its actions and performance. All the Association's activities (including gathering and consolidation of the initiatives and proposals made by the members; a cooperation with scientific communities, expert and other relevant organizations and individuals; examination and establishment of mutual stands of all the members and further development of the Local Self-Government) are realized in order to promote democratic and efficient local authority. Therefore, it is of the great importance for the priorities in Association's overall work to be determined in the forthcoming period.
For that reason, in order to determine the priorities in its work, the Association started a complete process of creating the policies, gathering and analyzing the data and identifying the domain of active policies and creating of the advocating plans, which all resulted in the Proposal of the Plan of Activities for current and the next year. This Proposal Plan has been adopted during the Assembly of the Association's Presidency, held in Vitez on July 9th, 2009. The Plan is available for the public through the Association's web page on www.sogfbih.ba
In the comprehensive process of determination of the policies, a support and technical support for the FBiH Association of the Cities and Municipalities has been provided by The Governance Accountability Project (GAP), sponsored by USAID, Sida and the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in BiH.
02.07.09
Cities and Municipalities which made it to a short-list for the acquirement of the Beacon status gave their presentations
The BiH Beacon Scheme Advisory Panel visited 22 selected short-listed Municipalities. Final presentation of the candidates for the acquirement of the Beacon status has been held in UNITIC, Sarajevo on June 26th and 27th. You can find a timetable of the Presentations at the bottom of this text.
Every Municipality had exactly 30 minutes, with the technical support provided for multimedia presentation (a computer and a projector), to make a formal presentation in front of the Advisory Panel and state its achievements. The presentations given by the Cities and Municipalities were 15 minutes long and the other 15 minutes were reserved for questions and answers. Inside the 15-minute presentation time, Municipalities had a task to focus on given criteria which are listed within the Beacon Scheme Prospectus. Besides that, Cities and Municipalities had to demonstrate that they have sustainable mechanisms and that they have implemented them, to present reference materials and results achieved in practice and also to demonstrate the ways to share their best practices with other Municipalities.
After the given Presentations, members of the Advisory Panel will prepare a proposal list of the Municipalities which will be awarded Beacon status. This Proposal will be sent to the members of the Ministries for further assessment and the approval will be given by Mr. Zoran Lipovac, Minister of Administration and Local Self-Government of Republic of Srpska and MR Feliks Vidovic, Minister of Justice of FBiH. Beacon Municipalities selected in the Fourth Round of the Beacon Scheme will be announced at the Proclamation Ceremony in September, 2009.
List of the Cities and Municipalities which gave their presentation in front of the Advisory Panel
Monday, June 29th, 2009.
11:00 - 11:40 Banja Luka - The establishment and usage of local community databases 11:40 - 12:20 Banja Luka - Effective human resource management
12:20 - 13:00 Bihac - The utilization of tourism resources as a means to promote local development
13:00 - 13:40 Bihac - The establishment and usage of local community databases
13:40 - 14:20 Bihac - Effective human resource management
14:40 - 15:20 Gradiska - The establishment and usage of local community databases
15:20 - 16:00 Gradiska - Effective human resource management
16:00 - 16:40 Bijeljina - The establishment and usage of local community databases
16:40 - 17:20 Bijeljina - Effective human resource management
17:20 - 18:00 Trnovo - The utilization of tourism resources as a means to promote local development
Tuesday, June 30th, 2009.
08:00 - 08:40 Pale - The utilization of tourism resources as a means to promote local development
08:40 - 09:20 Foca - The utilization of tourism resources as a means to promote local development
09:20 - 10:00 Tuzla - The utilization of tourism resources as a means to promote local development
10:00 - 10:40 Jajce - The utilization of tourism resources as a means to promote local development
10:40 - 11:20 Citluk - The utilization of tourism resources as a means to promote local development
11:20 - 12:00 Sanski Most - The utilization of tourism resources as a means to promote local development
12:00 - 12:40 Prnjavor - The establishment and usage of local community databases
13:10 - 13:50 Sipovo - The establishment and usage of local community databases
13:50 - 14:30 Konjic - The establishment and usage of local community databases
14:30 - 15:10 Nevesinje - Effective human resource management
15:10 - 15:50 Mostar - Effective human resource management
15:50 - 16:30 Jablanica - Effective human resource management
26.06.09
Seminar for Heads of Municipalities/ Mayors and Municipal/City Council Chairmen held in Sarajevo
The Association of Cities and Municipalities of Federation of BiH held a Seminar for Heads of Municipalities and FBiH Municipal/City Council Chairmen at the "Europe" Hotel in Sarajevo on June 23rd and 24th, 2009. This seminar has been organized in cooperation with Spanish Agency for International Development Cooperation (AECID) and Association of Professional Development for Local and Economic Promotion (APRODEL) and has been visited by over a 100 participants. Target group of the seminar were Heads of Municipalities/ Mayors and Municipal/City Council Chairmen from all Municipalities in the Federation of BiH.
The first day of the seminar, June 23rd, has been reserved for the Municipalities coming from the following Cantons: - Una-Sana Canton,
- Herzegovina-Neretva Canton,
- Central Bosnia Canton,
- West-Herzegovina Canton and
- Herzeg-Bosnia Canton.
while the second day has been reserved for the Municipalities from:
- Sarajevo Canton,
- Zenica-Doboj Canton,
- Posavina Canton,
- Bosnia-Podrinje Canton and
- Tuzla Canton.
Main objective of this seminar was to improve the activities and overall relations between Executive and Representative Bodies of the Local Authorities through three topics elaborated by the lecturers from the Kingdom of Spain:
- EU Funds available for the Local Communities
- Local Community Governance and
- Communication plans for the Local Authorities.
12.06.09
Workshop on a topic of "FBiH account plan" held in Sarajevo
Workshop on a topic of "FBiH account plan" has been held in Sarajevo on June 12th, 2009. The Governance Accountability Project (GAP) gave its support to the Association to organize this event.
Besides the representatives from the GAP and the Association, the workshop has been attended by Minister of Finance Assistants and employees of the Department of Financial Services from 6 Municipalities and Cities (City of Sarajevo, Ilidza, New Sarajevo, Hadzici, Breza and Jablanica). The workshop has been led by the GAP expert, Mr. Tony Levitas.
After a long and detailed discussion on issues that Municipalities have to deal with on a daily basis, the conclusion was that there is the need for the Account Plan to be made in cooperation with GAP and that the Association has to appear in front of FBiH Ministry of Finance with these annotations and to demand their approval so all appropriate changes of the Account Plan can be made for the benefit of public funds users in Federation of BiH.
Main annotations discussed were on:
"Unnecessary accounts which were established only for one-time use but still exist just to occupy needed space and burden income and expense accounts"; " A need for new accounts which would provide better monitoring of the income and expense accounts that Municipalities already have and making of the reports concerning these existing accounts";
"A necessity for a quick updating of a report form right after the changes are made on the account plan (and those changes have to be made regularly) since the making of the reports represents a big problem for the Municipalities for the time being because of this flaw in the existing system".
11.06.09
4TH PUBLIC DISCUSSION CALLED ''THE CONSTITUTIONAL REFORM IN BiH-DISCUSSIONS WITHIN THE LOCAL COMMUNITIES'' HELD IN MOSTAR
Mostar - Mayors and Heads of Municipalities along with the other representatives from the local communities of Mostar, Capljina, Citluk, Prozor-Rama, Neum, Stolac, Jablanica, Konjic, Ravno, Berkovici, Ljubinje, East Mostar, Trebinje, non-governmental sector representatives and experts in the field of the Constitutional Law discussed the following topics today in Mostar: Constitutional and Legal position of the Local Self-Government and possible reform paths; Jurisdiction and financing of the Units of Local Self-Governement; Protection of the Right on Local Self-Government and Reform of the Local Self-Government in the process of BiH integration into EU.
As organisers, the City of Mostar, the Association of Cities and Municipalities of FBiH and Embassy of Switzerland in Bosnia Herzegovina emphasized, the aim of the discussion was to identify clear and specific principles of the Local self-Governement which would be built into the new Constitution and which would create the conditions for the Local Authorities to be more effective and provide high quality services for citizens throughout BiH.
'' This meeting is a unique opportunity for Local Communities, citizens, NGO sector, business communities and other organizations to state their opinions on different subjects or issues concerning the Constitutional Reform and to express their expectations about the topic'', emphasized the host of this event Mr. Ljubo Beslic, the Mayor of Mostar and added that an active participation of the Units of Local Authorities and the civil society in public debates should lead to better understanding of the Constitutional changes.
One of the introductory speakers at this debate, Prof. Dr. Mirko Pejanovic said that the Local Self-Government should be given its place in BiH Constitution and the method to do that would be to define the major priciples which would guarantee the right on the Local Self-Government to the citizens.
'' Local Self-Government should have an autonomy in organizing its own administration, system of decision making and management of its financial sources'', said Pejanovic. Another introductory speaker, Prof. Dr. Bozo Zepic emphasized that he's not much of an optimist when it comes to this issue and he doesn't see near progress coming but regardless of that, the Local Self-Governement has its own place within the European Charter of Local Self-Government and many other documents.
"The Local Self-Government is one of the important issues and it represents a foundation of the democracy and of every country's democratic system, including BiH. All the discussions we led so far have shown that the Local Self-Governement has to become a Constitutional matter and has to have its place in the future BiH Constitution and that is the aim and a direction of all of our discussions", emphasized Dr. Zepic.
The conclusions made in these meetings will be sent to all relevant institutions which will be included into the process of the Constitutional Reforms.
11.06.2009
PUBLIC CALL FOR EXPRESSION OF INTEREST FOR MUNICIPALITIES IN BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA TO PARTICIPATE IN "REINFORCEMENT OF LOCAL DEMOCRACY" PROJECT
Reinforcement of Local Democracy (LOD) is a project funded by the European Union and implemented by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
The aim of the project is to contribute to democratic stabilization, reconciliation and further development of BiH. The contribution will be made through support to selected municipalities for establishing improved local authority/civil society relations and facilitating financing mechanisms for improved service delivery.
Objectives of the call for expression of interest
"Reinforcement of Local Democracy" project welcomes submission of expression of interest from Municipalities in Bosnia and Herzegovina for their involvement in the overall project implementation and for provision of support to the local Civil Society Organizations (CSOs). The purpose of this call for expression of interest is to select at least 10 partner Municipalities from BiH that will receive technical assistance and capacity building in order to build relationships and make stronger bonds and achieve sustainable dialogue with CSOs.
In addition, Municipalities will be assisted in provision of better funds disbursements for CSOs, through unified and transparent mechanisms for the disbursement of funds for CSO projects, with at least one project per Municipality funded. Selected Municipalities will co-finance CSO projects with a minimum of 10% of the total funding that they will receive through the LOD project, and use transparent criteria and project-based approach for the disbursement of funds.
Through the LOD project, capacities of Municipalities and CSOs will be increased, improving mutual cooperation and efficiency, as well as the responsiveness to real local needs.
"Open days" during which Municipalities will be able to receive additional information and ask for further clarification with regard to Public Call requirements, will be organized in the following locations:
Sarajevo, June 16th 2009, in a period between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.
Reinforcement of Local Democracy (LOD)
The Open Days, Sarajevo June 16th 2009
10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Hotel "Bosnia", Kulovica 9, Sarajevo
10:00-10:15 arrival and registration of participants
10:15-11:00 presentation of the LOD project
11:00-12:00 questions and answers
12:00-12:30 refreshment break
12:30-14:00 questions and answers
14:00 end of the program
Mostar, June 18th 2009, in a period between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.
Banja Luka, June 23rd 2009, in a period between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m.
Exact addresses and places where open days will be held will be announced on web sites: www.undp.ba and www.ngo.ba
Submission of applications and deadlines
The LOD Project welcomes all Municipalities from Bosnia and Herzegovina to take part in the open and competitive call for expression of interest, provided that they meet the general selection criteria as described in the detailed Guidelines for expression of interest. Complete application package is available for download at: http://www.undp.ba/index.aspx?PID=19&RID=724
All expressions of interest as per the detailed call for expression of interest shall be sent to UNDP BiH no later than 03rd July 2009 (Friday), 5.00 pm, to the following address:
UNDP BiH
Reinforcement of Local Democracy Project (LOD)
Marsala Tita 48
71000 Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina
Please provide two (2) original sets of documentation in hard copy and 1 in electronic copy (CD or USB). Other ways of submission will not be accepted.
For any additional information and clarification, please send your requests to fax no.: 033 552 330 or through following e-mail: registry@undp.ba. Answers to your questions will be sent to you in written form, no later than two days from the day of receipt.
09.06.2009
THE PRESIDENCY OF THE ASSOCIATION OF CITIES AND MUNICIPALITIES OF FBiH HELD THE CONSTITUTIVE MEETING
New Assembly of the Presidency of the Association of Cities and Municipalities of Federation of BiH held its first constitutive meeting on June 9th, 2009 in Zenica. Twelve of thirteen active members of the Presidency were present at the meeting.
Members of the Association's Presidency led by the President of the Association of Cities and Municipalities of FBiH, Mr. Husein Smajlovic were given an insight into the activities of the Association concerning the work of the Association's Assembly Committees, then with the activities concerning the making of the Draft of the Law on Amendments to the Law on Concessions in FBiH, the 2nd meeting of a Coordinating Body for Local Self-Government Reform formed by the Federal Ministry of Justice, workshops held on the topic of introducing of the treasury business into the Local Self-Government Units, seminars for Heads of Municipalities/Mayors and Municipal/City Council Chairmen and the other issues concerning the Association's overall work which aim is to strengthen the position of Local Self-Government Units.
Mr. Emir Silajdzic, Assistant Minister in Sector for Budget in Federal Ministry of Justice was also present at this meeting. He talked about the conditions that our country needs to fulfill in order to get MMF and the World Bank grants needed for economic stabilization in BiH caused by the global financial crisis to be regained, about a proposed emergency legislation concerning wages and allowances which are not treated as salaries of those employed in Federal Institutions, Cantonal Institutions, Municipalities, Non-Budgetary Social Security Funds, Road Directorates and current grants.
Besides Mr. Silajdzic, this session has been attended by the representatives from Federal Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Water Management for the discussion led on Law on Forests of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina. FBiH Constitutional Court made a verdict (published in "FBiH Official Gazette", no. 36/9) that says this Law violated the right on the Local Self-Government that Municipalities have.
The verdict says that FBiH Parliament has been given an opportunity to reach a transition solution and to, in consultation with the Association of Cities and Municipalities of Federation of BiH, bring FBiH Law on Forests into accord with The European Charter of Local Self-Government and the Law on Principles of Local Self-Government in Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina in the next six (6) months starting with the day the verdict has been published in "FBiH Official Gazette", which would be a final date for this law to cease to apply.
"LET'S PLAN OUR FUTURE TOGETHER!"
This is the title of the first of four sessions organized for the partner Municipalities and their social and financial cooperators on the Integrated Local Development Project (ILDP). Informative meetings held between May 25th and June 5th, 2009, gathered more than 150 representatives of Local Communities from 24 Municipalities and marked a beginning of the local partnership.
Informative meetings have been held in ILDP partner Municipalities of Zenica, Cazin, Tuzla and Doboj. These meetings created a platform for the information exchange concerning the future project activities on a local level and provided a wide range of participants with the information on standardized methodology for planning of the local development in BiH, at the same time involving NGOs, Local Communities and local business community into the process of the strategic planning on a local level. These informative meetings were a good opportunity for the first steps in cooperation between neighbor Municipalities to be made.
"ILDP enters the scene as well-timed and significant initiative which should help us in the process of improving our strategies of the local development in accordance with this new comprehensive approach. These strategies will reflect the principles of integration and a large number of participants coming from the local communities will be involved in creating them. Long-term forecast is that these strategies will inevitably make better development of the Municipalities possible and the implementation of these strategies will influence an improvement of the quality of life for all the citizens", said Mr. Nermin Ogresevic, Head of Cazin Municipality.
Partner Municipalities that participate in ILDP are: Bosanska Kostajnica, Bosanska Krupa, Bosanski Petrovac, Bugojno, Buzim, Cazin, Doboj, Doboj-East, Doboj-South, Gracanica, Kladanj, Kotor Varos, Kozarska Dubica, Ljubinje, Odzak, Orasje, Osmaci, Prnjavor, Samac, Srbac, Srebrenik, Trnovo-RS, Tuzla and Zenica.
05.06.09
Visitation schedule for the members of Beacon Scheme Advisory Panel-Round Four
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Theme 1: The utilization of tourism resources as a means to promote local development |
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Date/day |
Municipality |
Visiting hours |
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1. |
Thursday, June 11th |
Tuzla |
08:30 – 11:30 |
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2. |
Thursday, June 11th |
Trnovo |
14:00 – 17:00 |
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3. |
Friday, June 12th |
Pale |
08:30 – 11:30 |
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4. |
Friday, June 12th |
Foca |
14:00 – 17:00 |
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5. |
Wednesday, June 17th |
Sanski Most |
08:30 – 11:30 |
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6. |
Wednesday, June 17th |
Bihac |
14:00 – 17:00 |
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7. |
Thursday, June 18th |
Jajce |
08:30 – 11:30 |
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8. |
Thursday, June 18th |
Citluk |
16:00 – 19:00 |
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Theme 2: The establishment and usage of local community databases |
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Date/day |
Municipality |
Visiting hours |
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1. |
Tuesday, June 09th |
Bijeljina |
13:00 – 16:00 |
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2. |
Wednesday, June 10th |
Banja Luka |
09:00 – 12:00 |
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3. |
Wednesday, June 10th |
Gradiska |
13:00 – 16:00 |
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4. |
Thursday, June 11th |
Sipovo |
09:00 – 12:00 |
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5. |
Thursday, June 11th |
Bihac |
13:30 – 16:30 |
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6. |
Friday, June 12th |
Prnjavor |
10:00 – 13:00 |
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7. |
Wednesday, June 17th |
Konjic |
13:00 – 16:00 |
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Theme 3: Effective human resource management |
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Date/day |
Municipality |
Visiting hours |
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1. |
Wednesday, June 10th |
Bijeljina |
10:00 – 13:00 |
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2. |
Thursday, June 11th |
Banja Luka |
09:00 – 12:00 |
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3. |
Thursday, June 11th |
Gradiska |
14:00 – 17:00 |
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4. |
Friday, June 12th |
Bihac |
10:00 – 13:00 |
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5. |
Thursday, June 18th |
Mostar |
09:00 – 12:00 |
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6. |
Thursday, June 18th |
Nevesinje |
14:00 – 17:00 |
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7. |
Friday, June 19th |
Jablanica |
10:00 – 13:00 |
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05.06.09
NOTICE FOR THE MEDIA
Address: BiH Square 6, beginning at 11 a.m.
The Presidency of the Association of Cities and Municipalities of Federation of BiH will hold a constitutive meeting on June 9th, 2009 in Zenica Municipality. Thirteen Heads of Municipalities/Mayors, elected during the 3rd Assembly of the Association of Cities and Municipalities of FBiH held in Neum will meet for the first time in order to define policies and establish activities which would help them strengthen a position of the Local Self-Government and Local Communities and to improve standard of living for the citizens in forthcoming period. Mr. Husein Smajlovic, Head of Zenica Municipality has been elected a new President of the Association's Presidency.
Special attention will be dedicated to the Laws in procedure and an opinion the Association Assembly's Presidency has on the following topics:
a) Information from 22nd Session of FBiH Parliament House of Representatives concerning a Proposal of the Law on Amendments to the Law on the Allocation and Targeting of the part of companies' revenues they earned by using hydro-accumulation facilities
b) The Association's activities concerning the Law on Forests of the Federation of BiH - FBiH Constitutional Court's verdict and further Association's activities concerning this issue
c) Draft Law on Amendments to FBiH Law on Concessions
d) A meeting that Fiscal Council of the Federation of BiH held at the FBiH Government offices on May 27th, 2009.
Apart from this, members of the Presidency will be informed about the results achieved at the workshops held on the topic of introducing of the treasury business into the Local Self-Government Units, seminars for Heads of Municipalities/Mayors and Municipal/City Council Chairmen as well as of the initiatives received from FBiH Municipalities and Cities.
Before the beginning of the session, members of the Presidency will give their statements and do interviews.
Please notify the public of this event.
For additional information, please contact:
Edin Demirovic
Associate expert for the Local Self-Government
Telephone numbers: 033 216 502 or 033 552 810
31.05.09
MEETING AT THE FBiH GOVERNMENT BUILDING TO DISCUSS OBLIGATIONS UNDER THE STAND-BY ARRANGEMENT WITH INTERNATIONAL MONETARY FUND (IMF)
On May 27th 2009 at the FBiH Government building in Sarajevo, the Federal Government held a meeting attended by FBiH Prime Minister in resignation Nedzad Brankovic, Deputy Prime Ministers Vjekoslav Bevanda and Gavrilo Grahovac, Cantonal Prime Ministers and Ministers of Finance, representatives from non-budgetary funds and a representative from the Association of Cities and Municipalities of FBiH.
During the meeting that included a discussion on obligations under the stand-by arrangement with IMF, participants defined obligations of all levels of authorities which are a condition that has to be fulfilled in order for stand-by arrangement with IMF to be concluded and The World Bank and other investors' financing to be initiated. The participants also defined certain activities that have to be realized before IMF Board of Governors considers this case.
This means that Federation of BiH, Cantons and Municipalities have to amend their Budget Laws and some other Laws. Certain moves and steps necessary for the Governments to take in order to prepare the amending of Budget Laws by June 22nd, 2009 i.e. their adoption at the FBiH Parliament and Cantonal Assemblies by August 31st, 2009 have been agreed on in this meeting.
One of the moves the participants have been informed of during this meeting is the preparation of the emergency Law which will limit the salaries, allowances which are not treated as salaries and current grants for all authority levels (Federation of BiH, Cantons and Municipalities) and non-budgetary funds.
Aware of the situation and that they have to ensure balance of all budgets, which is a condition that has to be fulfilled in order to get the stand-by arrangement, the participants of this meeting supported the commitments of this Law which would be in effect during the implementation of the stand-by arrangement with IMF. The implementation of this Law would ensure a consolidated fund of 413.8 million BAM for FBiH - 152.4 million BAM from limited salaries, allowances and benefits, 61.4 million BAM from limited grants for FBiH, 50 million BAM form Cantonal grants and 150 million BAM from decreased expenditure for other current accounts, with the intention for it to be harmonized until it brings possible income.
After proposed materials are processed and harmonized with today's remarks and suggestions, another meeting will be organized for the agreement on dynamics of future activities. Executive Director of the Association of Cities and Municipalities of Federation of BiH requested that Municipalities receive beforehand explanation of their obligations from the stand-by arrangement and to be notified on the time of arrival of revised evaluation of income so they can start fulfilling their obligations in time. Federal Minister of Finance, Mr. Vjekoslav Bevanda promised to be personally present at the session of The Association's Assembly Presidency which will be held in Zenica on June 6th, 2009.
31.05.09
NALAS Celebrates Fifth Anniversary
Ministries, Embassies and relevant international and national organizations in Macedonia learned more about the Network of Associations of Local Authorities of South East Europe on the occasion of the 5th anniversary of the network.
The event took place at the Secretariat in Skopje, Macedonia on 27 May 2009, marking the date when the Executive Directors of local government associations of SEE signed the statute which laid the foundation of the Network.
Mr Tarzan Milosevic:
“The vision we had 5 years ago is gradually being implemented, NALAS is on the way to becoming the main knowledge center for local governments in the region”.
“Our network is becoming stronger and more successful every year”, said Tarzan Milosevic, president of NALAS and mayor of Bijelo Polje (Montenegro). “It is obvious that local governments in the Balkans are facing similar problems; furthermore they share similar systems of governance and public administration, which facilitates replication of good practices within the region. The vision we had 5 years ago is gradually being implemented, NALAS is on the way to becoming the main knowledge center for local governments in the region”.
The guests were also addressed by the Macedonian Minister of local self-government, Mr Musa Xhaferi, the ambassador of Montenegro, Mr Dusko Lalicevic, the ambassador of the United States in Macedonia, H.E. Philip Reeker, as well as other representatives of organizations which cooperate with NALAS.
NALAS acknowledged the dedication of several individuals to the process of decentralization in the region. Gratitude was expressed to Mr Goran Angelov, the first president of NALAS in the period 2004 and 2005, to Mr Romain Darbellay from SDC and to Mr Jeremy Smith, the General Secretary of CEMR for their personal contribution in enhancing the NALAS network.
“We, at CEMR, have followed NALAS’s growth over these last 5 years. From the beginning, it was obvious that we had found a natural partner, a friend, not only because most of NALAS’ members are also members of CEMR, but above all because this partnership is based on mutual respect: CEMR needs NALAS in order to reach and address the concerns of local governments in the Balkans, and I imagine NALAS needs CEMR to give those local governments a stronger voice across Europe. Five years is not much in the life of an association, yet it is enough to stop and reflect: have the original aims been reached? Should they be re-assessed? It is for NALAS and for NALAS only to imagine what its next 5 or 10 years should consist of, but one thing is sure: CEMR will be there, by your side, in future”.
NALAS Executive Director Kelmend Zajazi stressed that NALAS has achieved much progress in the past 5 years: “however, the following 5 years will be crucial. We must provide the services our members expect from NALAS, mainly in the field of fiscal decentralization, in order to ensure the quality delivery of public services to citizens in the region, especially now that local authorities face a global economic and financial crisis. European integration is also becoming an increasingly important issue for local authorities and NALAS”.
25.05.09
"INTRODUCING THE TREASURY BUSINESS INTO THE LOCAL SELF-GOVERNMENT UNITS IN THE FEDERATION OF BiH"
Presidency of the Assembly of Association of Cities and Municipalities of Federation of BiH held a session in Posusje on July 15th, 2008 and adopted a conclusion to form Working Groups which will be working on a preparation necessary to introduce the treasury business into the Local Self-Government Units in the Federation of BiH. Working Groups had a task to prepare information from the field of economy and computer science linked to this process.
After perceiving the situation inside the Units of Local Self-Government and concluding that they are not able to transfer onto the treasury business program in the legal period, the Association of Cities and Municipalities of FBiH, as a legal representative of all of its members in front of the institutions of FBiH authorities, presented this issue to Federal Ministry of Finance and proposed an Amendment to the Law on Budget which would prolong a deadline for the introduction of the treasury business into the Local Self-Government Units in FBiH to be brought.
After this initiative made by the Association of Cities and Municipalities of FBiH, Federal Ministry of Finance made a Proposal of the Law on Amendment to the Law on Budget in Federation of BiH. The Amendment concerns Article 25/Paragraph 2 which is now changed and reads: "Non-budgetary Funds and Municipalities have an obligation to introduce a treasury business by May, 20th, 2011". This Amendment has been adopted by the FBiH Parliament and then published in "FBiH Official Gazette", no. 32/09 from May 11th, 2009.
In order to prepare for a comprehensive work concerning the transition onto the treasury business in time, the Association of Cities and Municipalities of the Federation of BiH, supported by Governance Accountability Project (GAP), organized four workshops on a subject of "The introduction of treasury business into the Local Self-Government Units in the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina". The workshops have been held in Sanski Most, Bugojno, Maglaj and Ilidza-Sarajevo.
Participants of the workshops were the Assistants in Municipal Finance Departments. Workshops have been led by Mr. Emir Dedovic, a Financial Assistant from New Town Sarajevo Municipality. Concerning the fact that New Town Sarajevo Municipality is the only Municipality in the Federation of BiH which introduced a treasury business starting with January 1st, 2009, on an initiative of the Association, at the workshops Mr. Emir Dedovic presented a process of introduction of the treasury business by using his own experience concerning the issue.
103 participants from 70 Local Self-Government Units were present at these workshops. All four workshops have been evaluated by the participants as very well organized and the presentation has been evaluated as exceptionally useful.
Final conclusion was that the Association of Cities and Municipalities of the FBiH will deliver samples of some acts, necessary in the process of establishing of treasury departments in the Local Communities, to all of its members.
17.05.09
INFORMATION FOR THE MEMBERS/ on the Law on Amendments to the Law on the Allocation and Targeting of the part of companies' revenues they earned by using hydro-accumulation facilities
An agenda of the 22nd Session of FBiH Parliament House of Representatives, held on May 5th and 6th, 2009, included a Proposal of the Law on Amendments to the Law on the Allocation and Targeting of the part of companies' revenues they earned by using hydro-accumulation facilities. This Proposal has been sent to an expedited parliamentary procedure by a group of proposers from FBiH Parliament House of Representatives, on the initiative of following Cities/Municipalities: Mostar, Jablanica, Konjic, Jajce, Capljina, Prozor-Rama and Grude, whose Mayors/Heads of Municipalities held a joint session on February 2nd, 2009 to discuss this Law because it would be of the highest importance for these Municipalities for this Proposal of the Law to be adopted.
Expert Services of the Association of Cities and Municipalities of the Federation of BiH took an active part concerning the activities linked to this issue. The Proposal of the Law was welcomed in a very positive manner by the FBiH Parliament House of Representatives' delegates.
Concerning the fact that up until this Session, the FBiH Parliament House of Representatives haven't received an opinion coming from Federal Government on a Proposal of the Law on Amendments to the Law on the Allocation and Targeting of the part of companies' revenues they earned by using hydro-accumulation facilities, one of the proposers asked the Government to deliver its opinion on the subject by the end of the 22nd Session of the FBiH Parliament House of Representatives.
It has been decided for the Federal Government to give its reply concerning the Proposal in 15 days i.e. by the beginning of the continued 22nd Session of the FBiH Parliament House of Representatives. The Session will be continued because of the comprehensive agenda and after the Government's reply is received, the FBiH Parliament House of Representatives delegates will vote on offered Proposal of the Law.
02.05.09
The Memorandum of Understanding within a framework of Integrated Local Development Project (ILDP) has been signed
The Memorandum of Understanding within a framework of Integrated Local Development Project (ILDP) has been officially signed in "Europe" Hotel in Sarajevo on April 24th, 2009. The document has been signed by the UNDP representatives and 24 selected Municipalities. The official signing ceremony has been attended by the representatives from FBiH Association of Cities and Municipalities and their partners from BiH state and entity levels. Among the officials that addressed the assembly were: Ms. Christine McNab, UNDP BiH Resident Representative, Mr. Thomas Rüegg, Director of SDC for BiH, President of the Association of Cities and Municipalities of FBiH, Mr. Husejin Smajlovic, Executive Director of the Association of Cities and Municipalities of FBiH, Mrs. Vesna Travljanin and the representatives of Local Self-Government Units. Among 24 elected Municipalities that are to implement ILDP Project there is 14 Municipalities from FBiH: Bosanska Krupa, Bosanski Petrovac, Bugojno, Buzim, Cazin, Doboj-East, Doboj-South, Gracanica, Kladanj, Odzak, Orasje, Srebrenik, Tuzla and Zenica.
Find more information on ILDP Project on http://www.undp.ba/index.aspx?PID=21&RID=57
24.04.09
INFORMATION ON IMPLEMENTATION OF "PEOPLES EMPOWERMENT IN RURAL AREAS (PERA)" PROJECT
PEP International is an international organization whose main focus is on rural development activities in countries in need for such assistance.
In BiH entities PEP International is implementing PERA Project. That's a three year Programme of Support for the development of Local Self-Government financed by Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (SIDA) in cooperation with The Governance Accountability Project (GAP).
Objective of the Project is to strengthen underdeveloped and poverty-stricken rural communities with the main focus on mobilization of citizens concerning the decision-making process and better usage of local resources provided by Units of Local-Self Government. Another objective would be to consolidate relations between citizens and Units of Local Self-Government through development of the capacity of national staff to handle formal communication as well as to adopt the standards and practices of Good Governance.
PERA Project is based on the following few and simple principles promoting: democracy, transparency, sustainable usage of resources, gender equity and respect for human rights.
This Project will be implemented through around a hundred of small Projects in approximately 100 Local Communities on the territory of 20 different Municipalities in BiH. FBiH Municipalities included in the Project are:
1. Bosanski Petrovac 8. Jablanica
2. Posusje 9. Bosansko Grahovo
3. Drvar 10. Tomislavgrad
4. Siroki Brijeg 11. Prozor-Rama
5. Ilijas 12. Foca- Ustikolina
6. Kladanj 13. Maglaj
7. Fojnica
23.04.09
Mayor of Sarajevo welcomed the delegation of FBiH Association of Cities and Municipalities
On April 13th, 2009, a meeting between Sarajevo Mayor Mr. Alija Behmen and the representatives of the FBiH Association of Cities and Municipalities, Mrs. Vesna Travljanin, the Association's Executive Director and Mr. Nedzad Koldzo, Head of Novo Sarajevo Municipality, has been held at the City Hall in Sarajevo. On behalf of the City Government, besides the Mayor, the meeting has been attended by Mr. Slobodan Neskovic, Deputy Mayor, Mrs. Dragana Solakovic and Mr. Emir Suljagic.
Mrs. Vesna Travljanin informed the Mayor about the activities of the Association and its significance and emphasized that the City of Sarajevo is the only permanent member of the Association's Presidency. Mr. Nedzad Koldzo, Head of Novo Sarajevo Municipality emphasized that there is a number of indicators which show a significant progress the FBiH Association of Cities and Municipalities made in the last two years and that the Association is an organization which has a very important role in the process of strengthening of the Local Self-Government. Mr. Alija Behmen, the Mayor of Sarajevo said that an active cooperation that exists between the City and the FBiH Association of Cities and Municipalities should be continued in the future.
22.04.2009
Constitutional Court reached a verdict which concludes that the Law on Forestry violated the right on Local Self-Government
On April 14th, 2009, there was a public discussion on a topic of protection of rights on Local Self-Government in connection with the Law on Forestry in FBiH held in front of the Constitutional Court of Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Konjic Municipality was the one who asked for the rights on Local Self-Government to be protected in this case. Because of the dissatisfaction concerning the paragraphs and the implementation of the Law on Forestry in FBiH that had been expressed by the Units of the Local Self-Government before, the Association of Cities and Municipalities of Federation of BiH agreed with an appeal submitted by Konjic Municipality, so the public discussion was about their joint appeal.
Representatives of the following Municipalities were present during this public discussion: Konjic, Glamoc, Bosansko Grahovo, Vares, Olovo and Kakanj, as well as the representatives of the FBiH Association of Cities and Municipalities.
On April 21st, 2009, FBiH Constitutional Court considered an appeal submitted by the Head of Konjic Municipality and the Association of Cities and Municipalities of Federation of BiH concerning the protection of rights on Local Self-Government in connection with the Law on Forestry and reached a verdict which concludes that the Law on Forestry ("FBiH Official Gazette", no.20/02, 29/03 and 37/04) violated the right on Local Self-Government that Municipalities have.
The verdict says that BiH Parliament has been given an opportunity to reach a transition solution and to bring FBiH Law on Forestry into accord with The European Charter of Local Self-Government and the Law on Principles of Local Self-Government in Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina, in consultation with the Association of Cities and Municipalities of FBiH, and to do that in next six (6) months starting with the day the verdict has been published in "FBiH Official Gazette", which would be a final date for this law to cease to apply.
Explanation of the verdict emphasizes that the implementation of FBiH Law on Forestry can directly affect a number of issues important for the protection of interests of the Local Self-Government, especially the issue of regulation and management of public affairs on the bases of legal liability in the best interest of the Units of Local Self-Government. This can especially affect the Units of Local Self-Government concerning the future development plans and the implementation of requirements needed for economic development and employment and it can also affect the establishment and implementation of environmental protection policy, water management policy and natural resources management policy.
Taking this mentioned time-limit of six (6) months into consideration, the Association of Cities and Municipalities of FBiH expects a new Law on Forestry to be put in the process of making, in order for the verdict made by FBiH Constitutional Court to be respected in full.
16.04.09
A meeting with a Head of Old Town Sarajevo Municipality
A meeting between Mr. Ibrahim Hazibajric, Head of Old Town Sarajevo Municipality and Mrs. Vesna Travljanin, Executive Director of the FBiH Association of Cities and Municipalities has been held in the offices of Old Town Municipality, on April 15th, 2009. Mrs. Vesna Travljanin gave an insight on the recent activities of the Association and the activities planned to be done in cooperation with the Old Town Sarajevo Municipality in the future as well as on the plans for the incoming Election Assembly of the FBiH Association of Cities and Municipalities. Mr. Hadzibajric promised to cooperate and to support all the activities of the Association.
22.04.2009
CALL FOR EXPRESSION OF INTEREST
BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA
PHRD GRANT no. TF092826-BA (PHRD GRANT FOR THE PREPARATION OF THE PROJECT OF DEVELOPMENT OF MUNICIPALITIES)
CONSULTATION SERVICES
EXPRESSION OF INTEREST no.: BA-IC-07-CS-09-TF092826
BiH has received a Grant from the Japanese Government and intends to apply part of the funds to cover eligible payments for Consultation Services Contract which will be used as a technical support for the enforcement of the capacities of FBiH Association of Cities and Municipalities in a domain of finances.
This Grant aims to provide a professional and practical support to the enforcement of the capacities of FBiH Association of Cities and Municipalities in a domain of finances. A consultant is expected to cooperate with the Federal Ministry of Finance, selected Municipalities and other Institutions.
The activities include the following tasks:
"Monitoring and analysis of the legal frame in a domain of financing of Local Self-Government Units, especially concerning fiscal decentralization."
"Monitoring of cantonal, entity and state regulations in the area of public financing and directives which concern the development of administration on the level of Local Self-Government."
"Helping to find the topics for additional training for Municipalities' employees concerning the public finance as well as the implementation of the public finance."
"Connection of the Local Administrations through best practices, resources, materials as well as through the issues of common interest."
"Help provided for the Association concerning a budget planning."
"Other activities necessary to perform services in the area of Municipal Finances."
20.04.09
THE ASSOCIATION OF CITIES AND MUNICIPALITIES OF FEDERATION OF BiH HELD ITS 3rd ANNUAL ASSEMBLY IN NEUM
Neum, April 17th (FENA) - On April 16th and 17th, the Association of Cities and Municipalities of Federation of BiH held its 3rd annual Assembly in hotel "Sunce" in Neum.
This year's Assembly also had its electoral part and Husejin Smajlovic, Head of Zenica Municipality, has been elected a new President of the Association of Cities and Municipalities of FBiH while Vlado Alilovic, Head of Vitez Municipality, has been elected his Deputy.
Ivo Jerkic, Head of Citluk Municipality, has been elected a President of the Association's Assembly and a new Vice President of the Association's Assembly is Dzevad Becirevic, Head of the Municipality Centar Sarajevo.
In his speech, the current President of the Association of Cities and Municipalities of FBiH, Mayor of Mostar Ljubo Beslic, emphasized how the present Association's Presidency, in co-operation with its members, has significantly improved the Association's activities so it has been recognized as a real representative, protector and promoter of every particular interest of the Local Government i.e. its members, Municipalities and Cities.
Beslic also stated his firm belief that this newly elected leadership will continue to strengthen the Association's position, thereby strengthening Local Government's and Self-Government's position also, which would eventually mean that Municipalities and Cities will be able to provide a top quality service for the citizens.
Executive Director of the Association of Cities and Municipalities of FBiH, Vesna Travljanin emphasized that the work of the Assembly so far had another goal besides the electoral one - to introduce all their activities to the Association's members and to the general public as well as to present them with planned future activities which would increase the benefits for all the Association's members.
As a part of the Assembly, a thematic Conference called "Units of Local Self-Government of the Federation of BiH in the process of European integration" has been held. During the Conference Dubravka Suica, a Mayor of Dubrovnik, speaking as the Representative of the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities of the Council of Europe, Swedish Ambassador to BiH, Bo William Hedberg and the Deputy High Representative Anatoly Viktorov made their speeches.
The Conference concluded that it is necessary to continue the work on the improvement of the position of the Local Self-Government in Federation of BiH in order for BiH to approach closer to European integration processes and that it is crucial for Cities and Municipalities to be included as much as possible into the process itself considering the fact that most of the decisions, rules and regulations concern the local communities or have a direct influence on them.
Also, the participants had an opportunity to see the presentations on topics of "BiH in the Process of European Integration", "Local Self-Government in the process of European integration", "Culture and Development", "Localization of the European Union", "Participation of the Citizens and EU integration", "The Beacon Scheme - Project of the Constitutional Reform - discussions within the Local Communities", as well as the Master Programme called "Management in the Development of Local Communities".
The 3rd Assembly of the Association of Cities and Municipalities of Federation of BiH held in Neum gathered over 140 Representatives of the Local Authorities from the Federation of BiH, Federal Ministries' Representatives, Representatives of the diplomatic choir in BiH, OHR Representatives and a number of Representatives from the Government Agencies and Non-Governmental Organizations.
07.04.09
INVITATION (NOTICE) FOR THE MEDIA
Respected media representatives,
The Association of Cities and Municipalities of Federation of BiH invites you to be present at:
3rd ANNUAL ASSEMBLY OF THE ASSOCIATION OF CITIES AND MUNICIPALITIES OF FEDERATION OF BiH
Neum
April 17th, 2009
''Sunce'' Hotel, Neum,
Kralja Tomislava bb Street, beginning at 10 a.m.
The 3rd annual Assembly of the Association of Cities and Municipalities of Federation of BiH has a goal to present the Local Communities with more information about the process of European integration and the role they are to play on this road to Europe. Most of the EU rules, precisely, about 80% of that rules concern the Local Communities directly or indirectly, so it is necessary to do more on their preparation in order for them to contribute a new dynamics of the EU Integration processes in BiH.
This is a unique chance for the Representatives of Local Communities to be introduced to the demands set before them by the EU in the process of EU Integration but also for them to be informed about the ways to develop their Local Communities and improve standard of living for the citizens now available for them on the road to Europe.
This year's Assembly also has its electoral part, so new members of the Association's Presidency and its other administrative bodies will be introduced during the meeting.
Apart from the Representatives coming from FBiH Municipalities, this meeting will also be attended by a large number of Representatives of Local and International Organizations, NGO's, as well as the Ambassadors in our country involved in the process of development of Local Self-Government in BiH. The Assembly also has a goal to raise awareness about the importance of Local Self-Government in the society, to point out the advantages of all the Local Communities working together to achieve their interests and to establish more constructive dialogue with Central Authorities and to emphasize the need for the Local Self-Government to be brought to its well-deserved position.
A Press Conference will be held on April 17th at "Sunce" Hotel's Great Hall, at 1 p.m.
In addition we provide a Draft Programme of the 3rd Assembly of the Association of Cities and Municipalities of Federation of BiH.
Programme
For all additional information, please contact our PR consultant, Mr. Amir Kupusija on: Telephone numbers: 061 571 741, 033 216 502 or 033 552 810 Fax number: 033 216 502 or e-mail: amir@sogfbih.ba
03.04.09
INVITATION (NOTICE) FOR THE MEDIA
2nd Public Discussion called "The Constitutional Reform in BiH - Discussions within Local Communities"
Heads of Municipalities and the Representatives of Municipalities Zenica, Breza, Tesanj, Usora, Doboj-South, Maglaj, Kakanj, Vares, Zavidovici, Visoko, Zepce, Teslic, Celinac, Prnjavor, Srbac, Representatives from NGO sector and experts in the field of the Constitutional Law will discuss the following topics: Constitutional and legal position of Local Self-Government and potential direction of the Reform; Competences and financing sources for the Units of Local Self-Government; Protection of the Right on Local Self-Government in the process of BIH's integration into EU.
Zenica Municipality Building (Great Hall), 6 BiH Square
April 09th, 2009 at 11 a.m.
Main goal of this and of future planned discussions is to define clear and specific principles of the Local Self-Government which should be built into the new Constitution and which would create the conditions for more effective performance of the local authorities and better quality of service for the citizens all over BiH.
This meeting is a unique opportunity for Local Communities, citizens, NGO sector, business communities and other organizations from Zenica-Doboj Canton to state their opinion on various topics or issues concerning the Constitutional Reform and to express their expectations concerning this particular subject. Active participation of Units of Local Authorities and Units of Civil Society in public discussions should lead towards better understanding of the Constitutional changes. Conclusions from these meetings will be sent to all relevant Institutions involved in the process of the Constitutional Reforms.
This Project will include public discussions in 8 different Municipalities and Cities in the Federation of BiH and 8 Municipalities and Cities in RS.
02.04.09
14th Session of the Association's Presidency
14th session of the Presidency of the Association of Cities and Municipalities of Federation of BiH Assembly has been held in Bugojno on April 1st, 2009.
This session, as the one before it, has been held in order to make a preparation for the Association's Electoral Assembly scheduled for April 16th and 17th, 2009 in Neum. Members of the Presidency set out proposals for the lists of candidates running for the Association's administrative bodies which would be delivered to the Assembly for adoption. The Presidency adopted an Agenda for the Association's Electoral Assembly and also decided that another session of the Presidency should be held right before the Electoral Assembly's session itself, so all the candidature proposals delivered to the Association by its members can be reviewed on last time. Administrative Services employees presented recent activities of the Association to the Presidency members.
02.04.09
Global Development Marketplace 2009
- Reward Fund of over US $5 million-
SARAJEVO, April 2nd, 2009. - The 2009 Global Development Marketplace (DM2009) launched its annual global search for innovative local projects and project ideas, with the focus this year on how to help poor and vulnerable communities disproportionately affected by current and predicted climate threats. Innovating organizations from civil society, governments, and the private sector are invited to submit project proposals online, through the website www.developmentmarketplace.org, from today to May 18, to enter the competition for grants provided by the World Bank Group, the Global Environment Facility (GEF) and other partners.
The 2009 competition focuses on three themes:
1. Resilience of Indigenous Peoples Communities to Climate Risks
2. Climate Risk Management with Multiple Benefits
3. Climate Adaptation and Disaster Risk Management
An award pool of more than US$5 million will support 20-25 projects. Typically, DM competitions attract nearly 3,000 applicants, from which about 100 finalists are selected. Finalists competing for grants will be invited to the Development Marketplace held November 3-5, 2009, in Washington, D.C.
Development Marketplace is a competitive grant program that identifies and funds innovative, early-stage projects with high potential for development impact. Since its inception in 1998, DM has awarded roughly US$54million to more than 1,000 projects through global, regional and country-level competitions. Using DM funding as a launching pad, many projects scale up or replicate elsewhere winning prestigious awards for social entrepreneurship.
"Main criterion in this competition is innovative way of thinking", said Mr. Marco Mantovanelli, Country Manager of the World Bank Country Office in Bosnia and Herzegovina. "Over the past years, a number of NGOs, organizations and companies from BiH were granted funds through this competition and I hope that BiH citizens and business sector will once again send a large number of applications thus continuing a winning streak."
DM2009 competition is open to applications from non-governmental organizations, civil society groups, foundations, governments, private businesses and development agencies based in the country of implementation. Other applicants can apply only with the participation of a local partner.
For more information, please visit www.developmentmarketplace.org
30.03.2009
"Participation of the Balkan States in the European twinning programme" seminar held
Sarajevo, March 27th, 2009, Council of European Municipalities and Regions (CEMR) in cooperation with the Association of Municipalities and Cities of the Federation of BiH organized a seminar called "Participation of the Balkan States in the European twinning programme". Main goal of this seminar was to present the participants, representatives of local authorities from all over Europe, with the criteria, possibilities and goals of the Programme.
The seminar introduced a new European Programme called "Europe for Citizens" 2007-2013 supporting the town-twinning in Europe - which is now open for the Balkan States too. 50% of the budget invested in this Programme, a sum of €215 million has been intended for the activities concerning cooperation between municipalities.
Around 30 representatives of the local communities from all over Europe discussed the Project itself as well as the possibility for the local authorities from the countries of Western Europe to take participation in it. Namely, the only West European country which achieved this right by now is Croatia. In order for BiH representatives to be given a chance to apply with their Projects, BiH Central Authorities have to sign a memorandum with the European Commission, thus getting "an entrance ticket" for participation. Unfortunately, this hasn't been done."European Project called "Europe for Citizens" 2007-2013 supporting the town-twinning in Europe, which is now open for the Balkan States too, can be of great importance for strengthening of the local democracy in the region and for the expanded cooperation between neighbor countries", said the Association's President Ljubo Beslic. "Membership in CEMR is important for our Municipalities and Cities because by belonging to this Organization, which is a representative of over 100.000 Local and Regional Authorities, we get an opportunity to receive a high quality representation of the interests of our members on the international level. Also, we believe that, through the cooperation and twinning activities with our partners - other Local and Regional Authorities from all over Europe, we can have more efficient influence on Laws and politics with the general objective to create better living conditions for all European citizens. In my opinion, it is of great importance for our members to become a part of the "Europe for Citizens Programme" for the period 2007-2013", said Vesna Travljanin, the Association's Director. During the next meeting, a Committee for International Cooperation of the FBiH Association of Municipalities and Cities will discuss the possibilities of joining this programme. In their last meeting held in Reykjavik on May 5th, 2008, CEMR (Council of European Municipalities and Regions) confirmed that the FBiH Association of Municipalities and Cities has become a member of this Organization.
For more information on the conference, please contact Mr. Amir Kupusija Tel/fax: + 387 33 216 502, 552 810
25.03.09
The Fourth Round of the Beacon Scheme presented its themes and criteria
An Opening Ceremony of the successful launch of the Fourth Round of the Beacon Scheme has been organized on Thursday, March 24th, 2009. Themes and criteria of the Fourth Round have been presented during this meeting.
More than 200 participants, representatives from BiH local communities across the country were welcomed by the representatives of FBiH Ministry of Justice, RS Ministry of Administration and Local Self-Government and the representatives of the FBiH Association of Municipalities and Cities and the RS Association of Towns and Municipalities.
Members of the Beacon Scheme Advisory Panel presented the themes and criteria. The Fourth Round themes are:
Theme 1: The utilization of tourism resources as a means to promote local development
Theme 2: The establishment and usage of local community databases
Theme 3: Effective human resource management
During the month of April, representatives of the Beacon Scheme Advisory Panel will organize 4 regional workshops in order to present representatives from BiH Municipalities with an application process and criteria in more detail.
The BiH Beacon Scheme was launched in August 2005 by the OSCE and the Council of Europe as a means to identify, recognize, and promote innovation and excellence at the municipal level of government. Since 2005, this programme has become an important component of the process of Local Administration Reform and acquirement of Beacon status has been recognized and accepted as a prestige reward amongst the Municipalities, Municipality employees, the citizens and all the other interested parties that compete for it. Main characteristic of this Round of the Beacon Scheme is the fact that this programme officially transferred ownership of the Beacon Scheme to domestic institutions: FBiH Ministry of Justice and RS Ministry of Administration and Local Self-Government
10.03.09
ACTIVITIES OF THE ASSOCIATION OF CITIES AND MUNICIPALITIES OF FEDERATION OF BiH IN THE FIELD OF LEGISLATION
Law on modifications and amendments to the Law on Budgets in Federation of BiH
On March 10th, 2009, during BiH Parliament House of Representatives session, Draft Law on modifications and amendments to the Law on Budgets in Federation of BiH has been adopted (precisely, a part of the Law concerning the Treasury). According to this Proposal of the Law "non-budgetary funds and municipalities are obliged to establish the treasury operations by May 20th, 2009". Many activities of the Association of Cities and Municipalities of FBiH preceded the adoption of this Law. The Association delegation's meeting with the representatives of FBiH Ministry of Finance led by the Deputy Minister of Finance has been organized on November 11th, 2008. During the meeting, participants could see a presentation of the analysis of the situation the Units of Local Self-Governments are in concerning the establishing of the treasury operations in Municipalities/Cities, as well as a presentation concerning a Dynamic Plan for a transfer onto the treasury operations. A conclusion of the meeting was that the only Municipality that is ready to transfer onto the treasury operations is Novi Grad, Sarajevo Municipality, starting with January 1st, 2009 (and it has already been put in effect). As a preparation for this extensive activity, the Association of Cities and Municipalities of FBiH will, with a help of The Governance Accountability Project (GAP), organize workshops for the local communities which will present a process showing easier and faster ways of transfer onto the treasury operations. These workshops will be organized during April and May of 2009.
European Local Democracy Week 2008
The "European Local Democracy Week" (ELDW) is a new annual European event where national and local events are organised concurrently by participating local authorities in all member States in order to foster the knowledge of local democracy and promote the idea of democratic participation at a local level.
The two Council of Europe bodies in charge of local and regional democracy issues i.e. the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities (Congress) and the European Committee on Local and Regional Democracy (CDLR), part of the Directorate General for Democracy and Political Affairs, have initiated this project and jointly support its implementation.
The week around 15 October has been chosen for holding this event as a tribute to the European Charter of Local Self-Government, opened for signature on that date in 1985. Local authorities unable, for a variety of reasons, to organise the ELDW in this week are free to choose a more suitable week. The launch of the "pilot week" in 2007 also marked the 50th anniversary of the creation in 1957 of the Conference of the local authorities of the Council of Europe, the first authority in Europe to bring together elected officials of local and regional communities.
More information is available at www.coe.int/demoweek
09.09.2008
LOCAL GOVERNMENTS SHOULD HAVE THEIR SAY IN CONSTITUTIONAL REFORM
In premises of city Mostar a press conference was held on occasion of start up of a new project '' Support in Process of Constitutional Reform- Debate in Municipalities'', that will be implemented by the Association of Cities and Municipalities of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina and Association of Local governments of Republic of Srpska. Support to this project has given Swiss embassy. The project idea was presented to journalists by dr. Rolf Lenz, Swiss ambassador, Mr. Ljubo Bešlic, Mayor of City Mostar and President of SOGFBIH, Mr. Brano Jovicic, Secretary General of ALVRS and Ms. Vesna Travljanin, Executive Director of SOGFBiH.
Mr. Ljubo Bešlic, the President of SOGFBIH thanked the ambassador DR. Lenz on his embassy initiative to help local governments to voice their opinion in regards of Constitutional reform and continuing support of his country in development of local-self government in Bosnia and Herzegovina through this and different projects. Bešlic said '' The Constitution of BiH, as the highest legal act of the country does not treat in any way or recognize the term of Local-self-government, that is unacceptable and should change.
Ambassador Lenz explained that Swiss embassy will give its support to the associations in organization of debates on question of constitutional reform with aim to formulate visions, wishes and aims of local governments. ''Municipalities and Cities have great responsibility towards citizens welfare in everyday life. If you want your local governments to respond to citizens needs in quality way they should have adequate resources and competencies''.
Secretary General of ALVRS, Mr. Brano Jovicic said that the closest level of government to its citizens is not properly regulated in BiH, and reminded on obligation of our country to act in accordance with Stabilisation and Association Agreement (SAP) European Partnership and European Charter on Local self-government and improve the position of local self-government.
18.08.2008
CALL FOR EXPRESSION OF INTEREST for Municipalities - to participate in the UNDP Integrated Local Development Project (ILDP)
The Integrated Local Development Project welcomes submission of expression of interest from municipalities in Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH) for their involvement in the overall project implementation and for provision of support to the integrated local planning process. The anticipated purpose of this call for expression of interest is to select around 20 partner municipalities from BiH that will receive technical assistance and capacity building to support a comprehensive and participatory local strategic planning and administer funds allocated to the implementation of local priority projects. ILDP is a common initiative of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC). It is carried by the UNDP BiH in partnership with the BiH Ministry for Human Rights and Refugees, RS Ministry for Administration and Local Self-Governance, FBiH Ministry of Justice, entities` Associations of Municipalities and Cities and the SDC. Financial support for this initiative is provided jointly by the SDC and the UNDP.
All municipalities in BiH that are interested to participate in the ILDP are invited to obtain complete application documentation either electronically or on paper and submit their application.
Application documents
Full package of application documents and Guidelines for applicants could be found on the following Internet-addresses: www.undp.ba, www.sogfbih.ba, www.alvrs.com
or obtained on paper version at:
UNDP BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA
48 MARSALA TITA STREET, 1st floor
71000 SARAJEVO
or received electronically upon request through e-mail: registry@undp.ba
For additional information and clarifications potential candidates should submit their questions only in writing by mail or fax to:
Mail: registry@undp.ba
Fax: + 387 33 552 330
Note: Request for Call for expresion of interest documents (ILDP).
All questions related to this invitattion should be sent in writing until September 5, 2008.
All applications must be submitted by 17:00 hours, September 12, 2008 (Friday) on the above mentioned address.
16.09.2008
Workshop ''Process of Creating and Intercession of Public Policies''
The Association of Municipalities and Cities of the Federation of Bosnia and Hercegovina (SOGFBiH), with support of USAID/Sida/EKN and Government Accountability Project (Gap), will hold a workshop on topic '' Process of Creating and Intercession of Public Policies'' in Municipality Vogošca on Tuesday, 16th of September.
This is a first time that activity focuses on Assembly boards members with aim to familiarize them with process of development of public policies, basic forms of intercession and creation of legal documents and legal procedures on entity level. By doing this, Association and Gap believe that Assembly boards members will be able to contribute in quality creation of strategic documents and operational reform programmes that will benefit local self-government.
This is just one of number planned activities in this field that will be organized jointly by SOGFBiH and GAP. For the Association is of primary interest that its members are active participants in creation of policies and communication with higher levels of government.
05.09.2008
The Course on Local Sustainability
The Course on Local Sustainability and Action is an capacity and skills building program that assists local communities, national institutions, stakeholder groups and businesses in beneficiary countries in the areas of:
" Sustainable planning
" Sustainable management
" Sustainable investments by addressing issues of local sustainable development.
This course works toward further decentralization and regionalization as reform goals stipulated in negotiations and/or agreements on approximation of beneficiary countries with EU or countries that are EU members already. Course objectives also correspond to recommended investment priorities for reaching the Millennium Development Goals and respond to governance failures and areas of specific policy neglect, as two out of four issues recognized as reasons for shortfalls in achieving MDGs. More..
ERSTE FOUNDATION AWARD FOR SOCIAL INTEGRATION-
The 2009 ERSTE Foundation Award for Social Integration offers a total prize money of EUR 295,000 for eight countries of South east Europe
The ERSTE Foundation Award for Social Integration is designed to promote and recognise organisations in the public and non-profit sectors that engage people's abilities, capacities, and initiatives for socially-oriented practice and progressive change in society. The Award is integral to the ERSTE Foundation Social Affairs programme, which emphasises a commitment to human and cultural diversity, holistic human development, social and economic justice, and individual and group self-determination.This year eight countries from South east Europe are eligible for this award. More..
15.09.2008
Meeting with representatives of SDC and MDP Initative
Director of the Association of Cities and Municipalities of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Ms. Vesna Travljanin held a meeting with a representatives of Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC), Ms. Alma Zukorlic and Executive Director of the Center for Management (MDP), Mrs. Snežana Mišic.
At the meeting Mrs. Mišic explained that her organization was started with support of SDC and was very active in development of local self-government in Doboj region (Doboj, Doboj Jug, Doboj Istok, Modrica, Gracanica, Maglaj, Usora i Petrovo), and that goal of her organization is to support these municipalities to continuously upgrade their capacities and actively contribute to improvement of LED situation, utilization of EU funds and inter-municipal cooperation, in conformity with the principles of Good Governance and Human Rights. She also informed the participants about its organization's previous and current activities.
She expressed interest to work with the Association on transfer of good practices and experiences from her organization's work to other municipalities from the Federation of BiH. Ms. Travljanin welcomed this idea and suggested some ideas on dissemination of MDP's good practices. One of the conclusions was that both organization will work on formalizing this cooperation, probably by signing of an agreement of cooperation.
15.09.2008
Dosta!-Congress Prize: call for application
[15/09/2008 16:00:00] The 2008 competition for the Dosta!-Congress Prize for Municipalities is now open. It is addressed to local authorities who have run projects targeting the Roma population in 2008. The top three projects will receive the Dosta!-Congress of Local and Regional Authorities award during a ceremony on the occasion of the Congress 16th Plenary Session (Strasbourg, 3-5 March 2009). Candidatures must be submitted using the official application form which can be downloaded from the Congress website. The deadline for submission of application forms by participating municipalities is: 31 October 2008.
This prize is intended to award and highlight the innovative work of municipalities which really strive to include their Roma minorities in the life of their communities and protect their human rights. It will be awarded to three municipalities from any Council of Europe member state, whose creative and innovative initiatives most effectively ensure diversity in community life and the active democratic participation of the Roma. You will find more detailed information in the announcement and in the application form. Deadline for submitting applications: 31 October. Application forms must be filled-in in English or French (the French version of the announcement, as well as of the application form will be soon published on both the Dosta! and the Congress websites).
Dosta! is an awareness-raising campaign implemented with funding by a Joint Programme between the Council of Europe and the European Union.
More info.. www.dosta.org
12.09.2008
The OPEN DAYS 2008 -Week of European Regions and Cities
The 6th OPEN DAYS 2008 programme title is "Regions and cities in a challenging world". The programme is composed of working sessions that will run for three days, starting on Tuesday 7th October in the morning and ending on Thursday, 9th October at lunchtime. The OPEN DAYS event is co-organized by the Committee of the Regions (CoR) and the Commission's Directorate-General for Regional Policy (DG REGIO). Regional manifestation will gather representatives of national, local and regional governments, EU institutions, international and non-governmental organizations, creators of regional politics, experts and business communities representing the biggest event of regional importance.
The working sessions are grouped under four themes:
Innovating regions: Promoting research, technological development and innovation
Sustainable development: Regional responses to climate change
Cooperation and networking: Exchange of best practice in regional development
Looking forward: A European cohesion policy for tomorrow
The programme of these sessions is developed and hosted by the Brussels regional office conglomerates, DG Regional Policy and the Committee of the Regions, in cooperation with partners from the Investor's Café (representatives from banking & business, civil society groups and Commission Directorates-General).
This year a new channel ''The Investor's Caffe'', an opportunity for networking private and business sector, will be organized within this event
The Investor's Café is a channel for disseminating information as it will provide everything that elected representatives and investors need to achieve the objective of bringing the benefits of European competitiveness to everyone. Officials and other experts from the European Commission working in different Directorates-General will be there to assist partners from the Investors' Café with details of Community policies linked to the objectives of growth and job creation. The main European financial institutions and banks will present participants with their own information and resources. More info.. www.opendays.europa.eu
11.09.2008
Doing Business 2009: Eastern Europe and Central Asia Region Leads in Regulatory Reform; Bosnia and Herzegovina ranked 119th among 181 countries
WASHINGTON, D.C.,/Sarajevo, September 10, 2008—Reforms to business regulation reached record numbers this year, with Eastern Europe and Central Asia leading among world regions for a fifth consecutive year, according Doing Business 2009—the sixth in an annual series of reports published by IFC and the World Bank.
Four of the 10 economies making the most regulatory reforms are in Eastern Europe and Central Asia, and the trend is moving eastward as newcomers join the list. The top 10 are, in order, Azerbaijan, Albania, the Kyrgyz Republic, Belarus, Senegal, Burkina Faso, Botswana, Colombia, the Dominican Republic, and Egypt.
Doing Business ranks economies based on 10 indicators of business regulation that track the time and cost to meet government requirements in starting and operating a business, trading across borders, paying taxes, and closing a business. The rankings do not reflect such areas as macroeconomic policy, quality of infrastructure, currency volatility, investor perceptions, or crime rates.
In the new Doing Business report, Bosnia and Herzegovina (BH) was ranked 119 on the list that shows the ease of doing business in 181 economies in the world. The ranking of BH remained essentially unchanged compared to last year's Doing Business report when BH was ranked 117th of 178 countries, after adjusting for some new criteria introduced in this year’s report and the addition of three new countries to the list. The report also shows that BH made progress in four out of ten indicators: closing a business, dealing with construction licenses, enforcing contracts, and registering property. Thus, the report recognizes some of the efforts made to create a better business environment in BH. However, it also shows that neighboring countries are making faster and more dynamic changes in improving their business environment and that BH should accelerate reforms in this area if it wants to attract capital and jobs.
Countries in BH’s neighborhood were ranked as follows: Hungary (41), Romania (47), Bulgaria (49), FYR Macedonia (71), Albania (86), Montenegro (90), Serbia (91), Croatia (106).
“The new Doing Business report recognizes the efforts made to create a better business environment in BH“ - said Marco Mantovanelli, World Bank Country Manager in BH- „The World Bank cooperates with BH authorities to undertake business environment reforms, which will not only improve the country's ranking, but facilitate economic growth and job creation.”
09.09.2008
Bosnia and Herzegovina and the Republic of Croatia Partner up with the World Bank to Improve Water Management and Conservation of Biodiversity in Neretva and Trebisnjica River Basin Zagreb, September 9, 2008 -
Today representatives of governments of Bosnia and Herzegovina and the Republic of Croatia signed Grant Agreements and other related legal documents with the World Bank for the Neretva and Trebisnjica Management Project totaling US$8 million. The two Global Environment Facility (GEF) Grants amount to US$6 million for Bosnia and Herzegovina and US$2 million for the Republic of Croatia.
The project will assist the two countries by providing mechanisms for efficient and equitable water allocation among the users of the Neretva and Trebisnjica River Basin at the transboundary level and for safeguarding and improving the basin ecosystem and biodiversity through better management of water resources.
Over the course of the project the two countries will cooperate to develop capacity for effective water resource management including the information of river basin management plan, address saline water intrusion in the Neretva Delta in Croatia, reduce water pollution, and introduce civil society participation in the decision-making process for water resource management. More..
06.08.2008
First NALAS IT and PR Meeting in Ohrid, 6-8 July 2008
In an effort to network its member associations on multiple levels, NALAS gathered Information Technology (IT) and Public Relations (PR) experts from the member associations in Ohrid, between 6 and 8 July 2008. The meeting was part of the activities of the NALAS Task Force on Association Development. In addition, the meeting was an effort to establish new communication channels for exchange of information between NALAS Knowledge Centre and the member associations.
30.07.2008
Workshops ''Implementation of Law on Debts, Borrowing and Warranties in the Federation of BiH'' held in three municipalities
Association of Cities and Municipalities of the Federation of BiH (SOGFBiH) in cooperation with Federal Ministry of Finance jointly organized three workshops on Implementation of Law on Debts, Borrowing and Warranties in the Federation of BiH. Workshops were held in: Jablanica, Živinice and Vogošca in month of July. Financial support to these workshops was also given by GAP (Governance Accountability Project)
The aim of these workshops was to clarify requests and procedures that were introduced by explanatory rulebooks on Law on Debts, Borrowing and Warranties in the Federation of BiH and further inform municipal employees, who work on these issues, of Federal Ministry of Finance's requests and procedures that they will have to follow.
During the discussions representatives of Federal Ministry of Finance have answered to all participants questions and expressed their willingnes to further help local government units in this matter.
At the end, the participants were informed of probable future changes to this Law and that the Association will follow it closely. They were also invited to send their suggestions and proposals that can contribute to making this law as better as possible.
15.07.2008
10th Presidency Session
The tenth session of the Presidency of Association of Cities and Municipalities of the Federation of BiH was held in Posušje on 21st of July.
Special attention at this session was given to representing interests of members and local authorities both at the Federal and the State level. A Proposal of Law on Employees in Local Government Units was presented by Association's work group. Opinion of the Association was asked in regards to Draft law on modifications and amendments to the Law on Tax on Profit from Immovable Property from Hercegovacko-neretvljanski Canton.
Discussed were also proposals on modifications and amendments to the Law on Employees of the State Civil Service in the Federation BiH, Law on Cadastre and Law on Principles of Local Self-Government.
Defined were the activities that will be undertaken by Members of the Presidency and the Association's staff in order to efficiently promote and protect the interests of the Association's members in this regard.
Additionally, members of the Presidency were informed about workshops that Association is organizing in cooperation with Governance Accountability Project (GAP) ''Process of Creating and Intercession of Public Policies'' and projects: Beacon schema, City partnership etc. Next session of Presidency will be held in Konjic.
02.07.2008
FBiH Government Gave Green Light For Beacon Schema
Today the Government of Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina authorized the Federal Minister of Finance to sign a Memorandum of Cooperation for Implementation of BiH Beacon Schema
The BiH Beacon Scheme is designed to raise standards in municipal governance by recognising excellence and supporting the dissemination of best practice. The Scheme allows municipalities to showcase and be rewarded for their own achievements while setting positive examples for good municipal governance throughout BiH. The Association of Municipalities and Cities of the Federation of Bosnia and Hercegovina and the Association of Towns and Municipalities of Republic of Srpska are implementing the Scheme in partnership with the OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Financial support in first three rounds came from the British and Swiss governments. From today entity ministries, 45% each, have taken as obligation to finance Beacon schema in future. The other 10% will be financed by Brcko District.
06.06.2008
Association of Cities and municipalities of the Federation of BiH in Council of European Municipalities and Regions
At the last meeting of the Policy Committee of the Council of European Municipalities and Regions (CEMR) that was held in Reykjavik on 5 May 2008 Association of Cities and Municipalities of the Federation of BiH welcomed to CEMR.
''We are pleased that our work on development of local self-government and promotion of democracy in Bosnia and Herzegovina has been recognized and that, today, through membership in CEMR, we have an opportunity to participate in shaping the future of Europe. Through cooperation and joint activities with partners, local and regional authorities, from other parts of the world we can effectively influence laws and policies creating better conditions for all citizens of Europe'' said Vesna Travljanin in her letter addressed to participants of this event.
At this meeting apart from welcoming new members and approving new CEMR nominations, the members of the Policy Committee have adopted CEMR's position on the draft charter of regional policy of the Congress of the Council of Europe. A number of amendments were adopted including the fact that one of the charter's aims is to support and strengthen local self-government. Members also called for the charter to avoid any hierarchisation when referring to local, regional and national authorities
CEMR works to promote a united Europe that is based on local and regional self government and democracy. To achieve this goal it endeavours to shape the future of Europe by enhancing the local and regional contribution, to influence European law and policy, to exchange experience at local and regional level and to cooperate with partners in other parts of the world.
CEMR works in many fields of activity such as regional policy, transport, the environment, equal opportunities, governance... Its committees and working groups seek to influence draft EU legislation to make sure the interests and concerns of local and regional authorities are taken into account from the earliest stages of the EU legislative process.
The Council of European Municipalities was founded in Geneva in 1951 by a group of European mayors; later, it opened its ranks to the regions and became the Council of European Municipalities and Regions.
Today, it is the largest organisation of local and regional government in Europe; its members are over 50 national associations of towns, municipalities and regions from 37 countries. Together these associations represent some 100,000 local and regionalauthorities.
At the head of its political structure is its President , the mayor and governor of Vienna, Michael Häupl. It has a staff of about 20 headed by its secretary general Jeremy Smith.
CEMR's budget is about €2 million, the main part of which comes from the membership fees of its national associations. The rest (about 10%) consists of an annual grant from the EU Commission in the framework of the "Active European citizenship" programme.
02.06.2008
Bosnia & Herzegovina strengthen protected areas through new GEF grant
WASHINGTON, May 29, 2008 – The World Bank today approved a US$3.4 million Global Environment Facility (GEF) grant for the Forest and Mountain Protected Areas Project for Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH). The Project will assist the Government in conserving its globally significant biodiversity in critical forests and mountain ecosystems.
The Project will also help BiH on its path towards European Union integration through support to the Government in meeting the EU nature and biodiversity policy (Natura 2000) requirements.
The Forest and Mountain Protected Areas Project will help address threats to biodiversity in BiH by promoting ecosystem management and by expanding the Protected Area (PA) system to a level reflecting local needs and regional averages, according to the World Bank and the GEF. This is especially critical for BiH, which has the highest proportion of threatened plant species in any European country, yet less than one percent of its land is currently set aside as protected areas -- a striking contrast to a regional average of 7 percent.
This new effort will focus on improving the management effectiveness of four existing PAs, bringing two additional sites under protected status, assessing feasibility for another site and promoting sustainable natural resource management and biodiversity conservation activities in or around PAs. The project will directly support the proposed National Biodiversity Strategy and Action Plan as well as the Government’s Medium Term Development Strategy by creating conditions for sustainable and balanced economic development and by promoting poverty alleviation through improved use of PAs for local livelihoods and tourism.
“This project is most timely, especially given the many threats to biodiversity in this highly diverse and rich landscape. We hope that this will be the first of many efforts to bring the protection and conservation status of these biologically diverse ecosystems up to and possibly beyond European levels,” said Marco Mantovanelli, World Bank Country Manager for Bosnia and Herzegovina. “Moreover, this project has the potential to be a boon to localized economic development in and around the targeted Protected Areas, mainly by generating opportunities for job creation in tourism and recreation, as well as in expanded use of non-timber forest projects.”
The Project consists of three inter-related components. The first component aims to develop the BiH-PA system by improving and developing management planning capacity, by developing monitoring and evaluation (M&E) systems and capacity, and by direct investments in new PA infrastructure and facilities. The second component develops needed institutional capacity for effective PA establishment and management. The third component supports biodiversity conservation efforts carried out by local people.
More information www.worldbank.org.ba
Contacts:
In Sarajevo: Goran Tinjic (+387 33 251518)
In Washington: Michael Jones (+1-202) 473-2588
03.06.2008
THE NATIONAL DAY CELEBRATION
The three Scandinavian countries Denmark, Norway and Sweden celebrated their National Days (respectively on 5th of June, 17th of May and 6th of June) at a joint reception in Sarajevo on 29th of May. The event took place in the National Museum at 18.30 – 20.30 hours. By this joint celebration the three countries wished to mark their continued strong engagement in Bosnia and Herzegovina – a fact that is further stressed by the presence of a great number of citizens of Bosnian origin in their countries.
The joint reception could also be seen as an example of the regional co-operation that the three countries run together.
23.4.2008. - Brcko
Announced the Winners of the Third Round of Beacon Scheme
Award Ceremony of the Third Round of Beacon Scheme was held in Brčko on 23rd of April.
The winners of the theme one " Improving the Agricultural Economy in Partnership with Agricultural Producers and the Rural Population'' are Kozarska Dubica and Laktaši.
For the theme two " Support to the Establishment and Development of Small and Medium-sized Enterprises'' award received municipalities Zenica and Mrkonjič Grad.
And the award for the excellence in " The Use of IT to Improve the Quality of Service Delivery and of the Decision Making Process went to District Brčko.
Remarks by Ambassador Kuznetsov at the Beacon Award Ceremony
Ladies and gentlemen,
It is a pleasure to be here today in Brcko to recognise the achievements of the municipalities that are to be awarded Beacon status.
The Beacon Scheme, which is now in its third year, has gone from strength to strength over the last twelve months. The presence of so many distinguished guests here today is a testimony to the status that the Scheme has achieved in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Well over half of the municipalities in BiH have now applied for Beacon status. From that fact alone, we can reasonably conclude that the Beacon Scheme has established itself as an important feature of municipal development
Although the focus today will inevitably fall on those that will be awarded Beacon status, I would like to acknowledge the contribution of all municipalities that applied to be considered for a Beacon award this year. Your commitment and enthusiasm have been central to the success of the scheme and to making it so competitive.
I appreciate that many of you will be disappointed not to have been selected as Beacons. But I hope that, rather than become discouraged, you will be even more determined to succeed in the future rounds.
The quality of applications has again been extremely high and the selection process difficult. This task has fallen to the Advisory Panel and it is a task that they have carried out with enthusiasm and professionalism. I would like to congratulate the Advisory Panel on their work.
The future of the BiH Beacon Scheme is looking increasingly secure. The Republika Srpska Ministry of Local Self-government and Federation Ministry of Justice have demonstrated a strong commitment to the Scheme. Discussions are progressing well to develop appropriate funding and administrative mechanisms that will enable the Scheme to be fully administered and funded by the appropriate BiH authorities.
The Republika Srspka and Federation Associations of Towns and Municipalities have both been vital to the success of the Beacon Scheme. They have been involved at every stage of the application and assessment process and they will have a central role to play in the future of the Scheme.
I would like to close by congratulating the successful Beacons and to thank you all for coming here today.
The OSCE remains committed to the Beacon Scheme, but this must now be an increasingly supporting role. The aim now must be to ensure that the next round of the Beacon Scheme is substantially funded and administered by BiH authorities.
I look forward to working with you to ensure that this goal is achieved.
09.05.2008
Call for Proposals
1st Call for Proposals - 1st Step NOW OPEN!
The South East Europe Transnational Programme has, as of the 5th May 2008, launched its 1st Call for Proposals.
The Call will follow the 2-step procedure:
First Step: Applicants are requested to fill in and submit an Expression of Interest where they are requested to describe briefly the problems and the challenges that their project aims to address, the foreseen budget, partners involved and the envisaged objectives and results.
Second Step: Applicants of the pre-selected project ideas will be invited to submit a full Application Form.
The Expression of Interest form is an electronic document which needs to be completed and sent in the latest by 4 am Central European Time on the 13th June 2008. This should be done by uploading the EoI on the programme's website through the 'Upload' button on http://www.southeast-europe.net/en/downloads_section/calls/. All Expression of Interest received after 4 am will be automatically rejected. The Expression of Interest Form is available on the same web-site , as part of the Application Pack:
28.04.2008
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First Meeting of Coordinators for Work with the Association/Workshop ''' How to Achieve Active Partnership with other Cities of the World''.
During the month of April Association of Cities and Municipalities held three regional meetings with representatives of municipalities/Coordinators for work with the Association in Bihac, Mostar and Municipality Trnovo.
The main topic of this meeting was how to improve communication with members and how the Association can effectively and timely respond to the needs of its members. At these meetings coordinators also had a chance to learn more about a new project ''City Partnership'' and take part in a workshop '' How to Achieve Active Partnership with other Cities of the world''.
The project ''City Partnership' has been envisaged to provide the opportunity to cities and municipalities of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina to find out more about the daily lives of citizens in other European countries, to exchange experiences, and to develop joint projects on issues of common interest, such as the environment, economic development, sports, infrastructure.
The Association in coming months will work on development of the web-site and gathering of all relevant information for cooperation that will be placed on it.
04.04.2008
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Federal Minister of Justice Received the Delegation of Association of Cities and Municipalities of the Federation of BiH
Federal Minister of Justice, Mr. Feliks Vidovic and his advisor Mr. Ivan Matešic held a meeting with a delegation of the Association, that was formed by the Presidency of the Association, on 2nd of April 2008. In the delegation were: Zdravko Prka, Mayor of Municipality Tomislavgrad, Jasmin Emric, Mayor of Municipality Bužim, Jasmin Imamovic, Mayor of Municipality Tuzla, Vesna Travljanin, Director of the Association and Elvira Imsirovic-Bolic, Legal advisor of the Association.
At this meeting, the Minister was presented with letter from President of the Association, Mr. Ljubo Bešlic. In this letter Bešlic explains the need for better cooperation and necessity of signing of a Memorandum of Understanding with the Government of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina, as it is concluded at the last Congress of Local Self-Government of the Federation of BiH and written in its Declarations, which was held in 2007.
The Delegation informed the Minister of numerous problems that local self-government are faced with and expressed their wish that Ministry together with the Association work closely on development of different laws relevant to strengthening of local self-government. The Minister was also asked to informed the Government of the Federation of BiH of the meeting and give its support to the Association in future activities.
The conclusion of the meeting was that it is necessary to intensify the cooperation, especially through of the Coordination body.
28.11.2007
Short listing of Beacon applications
The Beacon schema is designed to raise standards in municipal governance by recognising and rewarding excellence, and by promoting and supporting the dissemination of best practices. In its third round Associations of Cities and Municipalities of the Federation of BiH and RS received 50 applications for the Beacon status for the following themes:
" Improving the Agricultural Economy in Partnership with Agricultural Producers and the Rural Population
" Support to the Establishment and Development of Small and Medium-sized Enterprises
" The Use of IT to Improve the Quality of Service Delivery and of the Decision Making Process.
All applications were reviewed by the relevant thematic experts, before the Advisory Panel has agreed on a short list of municipalities for further assessment.
27.11.2007
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Speeches
Pictures
23.10.2007
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BETTER LOCAL DEVELOPMENT IN BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA IN THE NEXT THREE YEARS
Halilovic and Priesner signed the document for the new project of UNDP in BiH
The Minister for Human Rights and Refugees of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Mr. Safet Halilovic has signed today the project document for the Integrated Local Development Programme (ILDP) with the UNDP Deputy Resident Representative in BiH, Mr. Stefan Priesner.
In the next three years, this project will promote socially integrative and inclusive local development through building of a more responsive and efficient municipal governance. The activities planned will aim to modernize and professionalize the local development planning and management processes within the group of 20 municipalities in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The foundational goal is to align the domain of public sector services with the standards of the European Union, as well as to build the crucial capacities that are required for management of the EU pre-accession funds.
"Interested municipalities will be required to ensure their commitment to human rights and gender equality, as articulated in the human rights treaties applicable to BiH, and to the Social Inclusion agenda of the European Union; to a certain local co-funding proportion regarding the technical assistance (TA), training and the seed funding offered by the project; and to linking in a transparent, effective and realistic way the local plans established within the project with the available municipal budgetary allocations" said the UNDP Deputy Resident Representative in BiH, Mr. Stefan Priesner.
The activities of the Integrated Local Development Programme will be organized around three complementary components:
a) Introduction and development of the best practices of the integrated and inclusive development planning;
b) Enhancement of the management capacities for programming and implementation of projects, including introduction of the innovative service providing models;
c) Strengthening of the mechanisms of cooperation through which citizens and civil society organizations can participate in the selection processes for the development solutions and practices as the "external controllers".
The Minister for Human Rights and Refugees of BiH, Mr. Safet Halilovic said that the implementation of this project represents an important contribution to modernization and professionalism in local development planning and management. "I would like to emphasize our support both to the project and the participants in its creation and implementation that will, as I hope, bring us a step closer to the standards of the European Union in the domain of public sector services and building of the key capacities for management of the pre-accession funds", said Minister Halilovic.
The project will be implemented by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in partnership with the selected municipalities and unions of municipalities and cities in BiH, with the financial support of the Swiss Development Cooperation and the UNDP - between which a cost-sharing agreement was also signed today. The project will last from October 2007 to September 2010, with the total budget of 3.13 million US$.
16.10.2007
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Financing of capital projects by credits
Cities in the Federation of BiH want bigger possibilities for borrowing
The House of Representatives of the Federation of BiH at its last session adopted the Proposal on Law on Debts, Borrowing and Warranties in the Federation of BiH. This law creates the basis for qualitative and systematic arrangement and the tracking of debts, borrowings and warranties. Local, self-government units are closely following the procedure about this law which still waits for itsfinal approval by the House of People.
''This Law is very important for local, self-government units because it gives them the opportunity to borrow money and start with the realization of capital projects,'' says Ms. Vesna Travljanin, Secretary General of the Association of Cities and Municipalities of the Federation of BiH (SOGFBiH). The association has started activities on increasing the allowed borrowing percentage for municipalities. The first recommendation was to allow municipalities to get into debt three percent of total revenues from the last year.
By the Law on Principles of Local, Self-Government, article 56, the Federal government is obliged to consult the local, self-government units through the Association of Cities and Municipalities of the Federation of BiH. These government units showed a great interest for this issue. The Association prepared a number of amendments to this law requesting that borrowing percentage be increased from three to 18.
Even though there was some resistance to these anmandments, the representatives took the standpoint that these requests should not be ignored, especially because the Association represents 78 local governments units. The compromise was reached at 10 percent. ''We cannot be unhappy, even thou the percentage is lesser than we asked for. However, we will continue to represent the interests of our members in the best possible way,'' said Vesna Travljanin.
Ljubo Bešlic, Mayor of City Mostar and the President of SOGFBiH said, ''Lowering this percentage would disable local, self-government units to perform quality work.'' One of the arguments for increase was also that this percentage also be raised in the Republic of Srpska, putting local, self-governments units in equal positions.
Oslobodenje, 15. October
05.10.2007
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Travljanin: Common interest
Establishment of Coordination Commission at the State Level
On October 11th in the premises of Sarajevo's City Council, a constituting session of Coordination Commission at the state level will be held. The two participating organizations, The Association of Cities and Municipalities of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina and Association of Towns and Municipalities of Republic of Srpska, have already chosen their representatives for this commission. Jurisdictions and future activities of the commission will be defined at the meeting. Secretary General Ms. Vesna Travljanin said: ''The focus of the Coordination Commission will be on representing the common interest of associations on the state and international level.''
28.09.2007
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Municipalities and Cities Received Awards “Golden Tourism Rose”
A number of events held in Bosnia and Herzegovina marked the celebration of World Tourism Day - September 27. The central event entitled „Tourism Enriches” was organized for public TV broadcasting as a co-production of Federation TV and RTRS. The broadcast was sponsored by the entity-level tourism ministries and the B&H Foreign Trade Chamber, with the support of USAID CCA. More than 250 representatives of the public and private tourism sector in B&H, state authorities, the diplomatic corps, the international community and the media attended the event.
The TV broadcast opened with the premiere of the new B&H tourism promotional video. This was followed by a ceremony at which tourism sites and hotels were presented with “Golden Tourism Rose” Awards. The 2006 Golden Tourism Rose award for the best tourism site was granted to Brcko District – 3rd place; Tuzla and Banja Luka – 2nd place and Sarajevo – 1st place. The awards program is part of a TV series entitled, “Tourism Plus”. Its competitive spirit helps promote improvements in the quality of tourism products and services. On behalf of the tourism cluster, USAID CCA is supporting the production of seven “Tourism Plus” shows, which will be broadcasted on public, private and cable TV stations in B&H by the end of this year.
The “Tourism Plus” project organizers granted two special awards: Neum received an award for exceptional progress in improving the quality of the tourism experience in 2006; and USAID received an award for exceptional merits in tourism development in B&H in 2006.
20.09.2007
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Military Base Conversion Conference in Sarajevo
RACVIAC, in cooperation with Associations of Cities and Municipalities of the Federation of B&H, RS and Ministry of Defense of B&H, held a Conference on 20 September 2007 in Army Club Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina with municipal mayors of B&H in whose regions non-perspective Military locations are based. The purpose of the Conference was to present Military Base Conversion processes to the representatives of interested Municipalities from B&H. Representatives of NATO in BiH, FIPA and SERDA also took part in the conference.
Project development and implementation, institutional involvement and financial support are from various financial institutions.
The participants of the Conference agreed on the following:
1. A working group which will be in charge of preparing the conclusions of the conference was formed. It is comprised of Mr. Hamdo Eljubovic, Mr Zdravko Krsmanovic, and Mr. Mustafa Kurtovic,Mayor, Mayors of the Municipalities, respectively, Hadžici, Foca, and Goražde.
2. The Government and other relevant institutions will be asked to provide legitimate representatives of the municipalities for participation in commissions and other bodies that decide on military locations.
3. NATO and OHR representatives, who were present at the conference, will be informed of the conclusions and asked for their support in their implementation.
4. Associations demand that the property rights of military facilities are transferred onto local, self-government units and that property status of these facilities are legally defined.
5. Military facilities will be defined as either perspective or not.
6. Because RACVIAC has the capacity and funding from countries of the region, this potential must be utilized.
7. State Ministry of Defence of BiH must find resources for making these facilities safe for environment, flora and fauna.
8. Local self-government units that are faced with the same problems should work together through their associations.
9. Associations should do a survey with the aim of creating a data base of municipalities that are faced with similar problems.
The conference was attended by 88 participants.
28.07.2007
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The “European Local Democracy Week” (ELDW) is a new annual European event with simultaneous national and local events. This initiative will be organised by participating local authorities in all Council of Europe member States in order to foster the knowledge of local democracy and promote the idea of democratic participation at a local level.
The week including the 15 October has been choosen for holding this event as the European Charter of Local Self-Government was opened for signature on that date in 1985. A first launch in 2007 would also mark the 50th anniversary of the Council of Europe’s advocacy for local democracy.
The official launch of the first European “Local Democracy Week” took place on the occasion of the 15th session of the Ministerial Conference of European Ministers responsible for Local and Regional Government held in Valencia on 15–16 October 2007.
The “European Local Democracy Week” is a joint initiative of the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities (Congress) of the Council of Europe and the European Committee on Local and Regional Democracy (CDLR).
What kind of activities can be carried out during the ELDW
The local authorities willing to take part in the ELDW can organise different kinds of activities aimed at different types of audiences with the objective of informing the citizens, compiling their opinions and expectations, and encouraging them to participate actively in local affairs. That said, the local authorities are free to organise the activities they deem more necessary or practicable at local level.
The list of activities set out below is aimed at associations of local authorities or local authorities themselves. It has been designed with the valuable help of the Local Government Association (LGA) from the United Kingdom. The list of activities is open-ended, and will gradually be supplemented by contributions from all those keen to share their experiences and ideas with the partner local authorities taking part in this European event.
Activities to run at local level
Information/communication activities
Activities based on exchanges between citizens and local elected representatives
Activities for youth
Activities for the elderly
Activities to run at national level
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Military Base Conversion Conference in Sarajevo
RACVIAC, in cooperation with Associations of Cities and Municipalities of the Federation of B&H, RS and Ministry of Defense of B&H, held a Conference on 20 September 2007 in Army Club Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina with municipal mayors of B&H in whose regions non-perspective Military locations are based. The purpose of the Conference was to present Military Base Conversion processes to the representatives of interested Municipalities from B&H. Representatives of NATO in BiH, FIPA and SERDA also took part in the conference.
Project development and implementation, institutional involvement and financial support are from various financial institutions.
The participants of the Conference agreed on the following:
1. A working group which will be in charge of preparing the conclusions of the conference was formed. It is comprised of Mr. Hamdo Eljubovic, Mr Zdravko Krsmanovic, and Mr. Mustafa Kurtovic,Mayor, Mayors of the Municipalities, respectively, Hadžici, Foca, and Goražde.
2. The Government and other relevant institutions will be asked to provide legitimate representatives of the municipalities for participation in commissions and other bodies that decide on military locations.
3. NATO and OHR representatives, who were present at the conference, will be informed of the conclusions and asked for their support in their implementation.
4. Associations demand that the property rights of military facilities are transferred onto local, self-government units and that property status of these facilities are legally defined.
5. Military facilities will be defined as either perspective or not.
6. Because RACVIAC has the capacity and funding from countries of the region, this potential must be utilized.
7. State Ministry of Defence of BiH must find resources for making these facilities safe for environment, flora and fauna.
8. Local self-government units that are faced with the same problems should work together through their associations.
9. Associations should do a survey with the aim of creating a data base of municipalities that are faced with similar problems.
The conference was attended by 88 participants.
22.09.2008
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More Efficient Representation of Municipal Interests is Needed
III Session of the Presidency
More Efficient Representation of Municipal Interests is Needed
Session III of the Presidency
The third session of the Presidency of Association of Cities and Municipalities of the Federation of BiH was held in Goražde on 21st of September.
After the minutes of the 2nd meeting of the Presidency which was held on June 28th in Bugojno was approved by the members, the Secretary General, Miss. Vesna Travljanin, informed participants about Association's initative to organize a Congress of Mayors of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina. This idea was welcomed and the dates were set for December 6th and 7th, 2007. The main topic of this event will be ''Improvment of Cooperation between the Central Government and Local authorities.''
Special attention at this session was given to representing interests of members and local authorities both at the Federal and the State level. A number of laws were discussed. It is said that modifications and amendments are needed in regards to many laws: Law on debts, borrowing, and warranties, First Draft Law on modifications, and amendments to the Law on Employees of the State Civil Service in the Federation BiH, Law on Public Procurement for Bosnia and Herzegovina, and the Law on Tourism. Defined were the activities that will be undertaken by Members of the Presidency and the Association's staff in order to efficiently promote and protect the interests of the Association's members in this regard.
The Presidency approved the text and signing of a Memorandum of Understanding with the Directorate for European Integration of BiH (DEI), Holland Development Agency (SNW), Associations of Towns and Municipalities of RS. The main purpose of this Memorandum is to help local authorities of Bosnia and Herzegovina to take active part in the process of European integrations.
After the Presidency was informed about the event "European Local Democracy Week," a joint initiative of the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities (Congress) of the Council of Europe and the European Committee on Local and Regional Democracy (CDLR), it was decided that the Association would send out a memo inviting all the members to take a part in it. The "European Local Democracy Week" (ELDW) is a new annual European event with simultaneous national and local happenings. This initiative will be organized by participating local authorities in all Council of Europe member states in order to foster the knowledge of local democracy and promote the idea of democratic participation at a local level.
The President of the Association, Mr. Ljubo Bešlic, informed the members about an initiative for establishing an Educational center for municipal employees in Mostar. A conference on this topic, which is planned for October 15th, should list and define the steps that will lead to the establishment of the Center.
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Lowering electricity costs for lighting public facilities
Initiative for change of tariffs used for electricity calculation was initiated in Mostar and Široki Brijeg.
Municipalities and Cities in FBiH pay an excessively high price for the energy used for public lighting and the tariff calculation should be changed. This is the standpoint of the Presidency of The Association of Cities and Municipalities of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina. The delegation of the Association, which was led by its President, Mr. Ljubo Bešlic and Secretary General Ms. Vesna Travljanin, held a meeting on 29.08. 2007, with the representatives of the Regulatory Commission for Electrical Energy in the Federation of BiH (FERK). The main topics of this meeting were how to lower the huge expenditures that local self-government units from the Federation of BiH acquire from using this electricity:
1. Methodology and formula for tariff calculation for public lightening is not good and that is not correct that the same price of electricity is used for public institutions (schools, hospitals, street lights, etc.) and manufacturing companies.
2. Conservation of electricity is possible by using certain types of light bulbs.
3. The Association must be involved when the next change of tariffs is made.
4. Representatives of FERK suggested that the Association should be involved in resolving problems that may arise between local, self-government units and FERK.
Conclusions of the meeting:
" One session will not be adequate to solve the problem.
" The Association will take active participation in the next meeting to reform the tariffs.
09.09.2007
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Technical Support by Japanese Government
The Unit for Economic Planning and Implementation of Mid-Term Development Strategy of B&H (EPPU) continued its successful partnership with the Japanese government and cooperation with Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Bosnia and Herzegovina. The EPPU will also work on the collection of applications.
BiH municipalities can apply for grants from the Japanese government.
Basic criteria are:
" The value of the project is more than 1 million US dollars
" Given funds are a grant from the Japanese government
" The project does not include other support from the Japanese government (ex. Crediting)
" It is recommended that local, self-government units have allocated some funds for the project
" It is recommended that the project documentation is ready (applications should not to be sent before this phase is prepared)
" If an applicant requests money for equipment, that equipment must be necessary
" Realization of the project is expected to start at the beginning of 2009 (deadline for application is August 2007 after which will follow the period of selection).
To apply for technical support and grants, it is necessary to fill out the application forms that are available at http://www.eppu.ba. For more information please contact Mr. Elmedin Topcic, EPPU, Tel/Fax. +387 33 218 552.
08.09.2007
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The Office for Finance and Budget of the House of Representatives of Parliamentary Assembly of Bosnia and Herzegovina on September 11th will hold a
PUBLIC DISCUSSION
about Proposal on the modification and amending of the Law on Public Procurement of Bosnia and Herzegovina as proposed by the Council of Ministers of BiH.
Public discussion will be held from 11.00 to 14.00 hours at the Parliament Assembly Building in Sarajevo, Trg BiH no.1.
For additional information please contact Mrs. Elvira imširovic-Bolic at Tel/fax. 033 216 502.
08.08.2007
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Support to Municipality Goražde
Due to a destructive hail storm that hit the municipality of Goražde, The Presidency of the Association of Cities and Municipalities of the Federation of BiH on its last session held in Bugojno on 28th of June, has made a one-vote decision to help Municipality of Goražde.
The Association of Cities and Municipalities of the Federation of BiH appeals to all members to show its solidarity by financially supporting the Municipality of Goražde in order to relieve the catastrophic effects that the squall weather left on residents' houses and agriculture on 19th of June 2007.
The Association really hopes that member Municipalities will show unity and take a part in placating the damage caused by of one of the worst downpours registered in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Monetary donations can be sent to the account of Municipality Goražde: 1011400000041290 PBS Branch Goražde.
08.09.2007
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Military Base Conversion Conference in Sarajevo, BA
RACVIAC, in cooperation with Associations of Cities and Municipalities of the Federation of B&H, RS and Ministry of Defense of B&H, plans to hold a Conference with municipal mayors in B&H in whose regions non-perspective military locations are based.
The Conference will be held on 20 September 2007 in Army Club Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina. The purpose of the Conference is to present to the representatives of interested Municipalities from B&H Military Base Conversion processes, Project development and implementation, institutional involvement and financial support from different financial institutions.
06.09.2007
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Moving ahead to round three
Moving forward, the steering group of the Bosnia and Herzegovina Beacon Scheme decided the themes of the next round - round three.
Round Three Themes
The themes for the Third Round of the BiH Beacon Scheme are:
" Improving the Agricultural Economy in Partnership with Agricultural Producers and the Rural Population
" Support to the Establishment and Development of Small and Medium-sized Enterprises
" The Use of IT to Improve the Quality of Service Delivery and of the Decision Making Process. more information...
25.05.2007
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25.05.2007
''OPEN DAYS OF CITIES AND MUNICIPALITIES OF BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA'' and the Conference of Local Government Units of Bosnia and Hercegovina will simultaneouslly be held in Gradacac, from 20.06 till 22.06.2007.
This event is jointly organized by the Association of Cities and Municipalities of the Federation of BiH, Association of Towns and Municipalities of RS, U.D. ''BOMS -expo'' d.o.o. Zenica, Governance Accountability Project (GAP) and Danish Refugee Council.
At this three days long event, local government units from Bosnia and Herzegovina and organizations and institutions that cooperate with them will present themselves , their work results, resources, companies, tradition and exchange good practices and experiences. If your organization si also interested in booking an exibition space at this fair you can do that till 04.06.2007.
During the Conference of Local Government Units of Bosnia and Herzegovina a number of work sessions will take place, were topics of importance for the development of local self-government will be discussed. The programme of the Conference is in the attachment.
To register for the Conference of LGU of Bosnia and Herzegovina, please contact Amir Kupusija, tel/fax: 033 216 502, 552 810 or by e-mail amir@sogfbih.ba. Registration for the conference is free.
In a case that you are interested to book exibition space at this fair please contact ''BOMS -expo'' d.o.o. Zenica, tel/fax: 032, 242 863, GSM: 061 166 280. Booking form is in the attachement.
25.05.2007
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Sharing best practices helps BiH municipalities become 'beacons' of good governance
Winners of the second round of Bosnia and Herzegovina Beacon Scheme for excellence in municipal-level governance are sharing best practices through a series of open days for municipal officials, while the areas of excellence targeted in the Scheme's third round will be announced later this week.
The Beacon Scheme, modelled after a similar programme in the United Kingdom (UK), recognizes and rewards excellence in municipal-level governance based around certain themes, such as engagement with youth or waste disposal.
The Scheme was set up in Bosnia and Herzegovina in late 2005 and the first two rounds of the Scheme were implemented with financial support from the UK and Swiss governments and managerial support from the OSCE and the Council of Europe.
"In an environment characterized by generally slow institutional progress and political stalemate, the Beacon Scheme has, over the first two rounds, drawn clear interest - as evidenced by the number of applications for Beacon status, as well as the attendance at best practices dissemination events organized by the winning Beacon municipalities," said Bart Denys, Local Governance Project Manager at the OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina.
The six 'Beacon Municipalities' of the second round were honoured at an award ceremony in Banja Luka on 3 April. They are currently sharing their best practices through a series of open days for municipal councillors and officials.
The Bosnia and Herzegovina Beacon Scheme is also supported by the Association of Municipalities and Cities of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina and the Association of Towns and Municipalities of Republika Srpska and Brcko District. More...
23.05.2007
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P.R. WORKSHOPS
Three two day trainings were held in May at three locations for all municipalities in Federation, including municipalities in RS.
The training was jointly organised by Association of Municipalities and Cities of the Federation of BiH and UNDP's programme SUTRA PlOD and the financial support of VNG.
Participants had an opportunity to improve their communication skills through practical and interactive exercises.It is expected that this training will assist municipalities in establishing better internal and external communications.
25.03.2007
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Assembly of the Association of Cities and Municipalities of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina
GOOD EXAMPLE FOR HIGHER AUTHORITIES
Gradacac- Cooperation and work of local government units can be an example for higher level of authorities, entities and the state, was heard in opening session of the Second Assembly of the Association of Cities and Municipalities of the Federation of BiH. The Assembly attended two members of BiH Presidency; Željko Komšic and Dr. Haris Silajdžic, number of representatives of local and international organizations as wel as 65 mayors or their deputies.
The assembly had several goals: adoption of a new Statute and work documents; election of new President, Vice President, members of the Presidency and other association's bodies, raising importance of local self-government in BiH and improvement of cooperation with central government and active involvement of members in association's work
It is joint conclusion that holding this session of Assembly will fasten activities on enforcement of legal provisions of the Law on Principles of Local Self-Government. It is also concluded that the Association will promote democratic, effective and efficient local government, in line with the principles written in European Charter of Local Self-Government. It will also act in accordance with legal provisions of the Law before the government of the FBiH, as a legal representative of municipalities, representing their interests locally and internationally.
At this session new President of the Association and his Deputy were elected. For the President was elected Ljubo Bešlic, Mayor of Mostar and Hasan Ajkunic, Mayor of Bugojno for his deputy. 13 members of the Presidency were elected too.
For the Presiding of the Assembly is choosen Ferhat Mustafic, Mayor of Gradacac and for his deputy Mato Zovko, Mayor of Žepce.
At the opening of the session Vesna Travljanin, Executive director of the Association, the host Ferhat Mustafic, Mayor of Gradacac and Tahir Lendo, now ex-President gave welcoming speeches. Messages of support were given by the members of BiH Presidency, Željko Komšic and Dr. Haris Silajdžic. In his speech Silajdžic expressed his wish that BiH in the future has a unique association which will work for the benefit of all BiH citizens.
Rudy Runko, Director of Governance Accountability Project (GAP) has explained the importance of having strong Association which can benefit its members. He also expressed his satissfaction with the results achieved in cooperation with the association and hope that this cooperation will expand.
Michael Docherty, Head of the Democracy and Social Development Section, Delegation of the European Commission to BiH, emphasized the importance of local self-government development in BiH and benefit for its citizens. He announced that this and the next year his organization will invest 1.5 million euros in development and that all municipalities will have a chance to apply for this fund.
Trefor Williams, Director of Democratization, Mission of OSCE in BiH, said that both associations, of the Federation of BiH and RS, play very important role in development of local self-government in Bosnia and Herzegovina..
Srdan Ljubojevic, Assistant to Director of the Directorate for European Integration of Bosnia and Herzegovina informed the present that his organization is in the process of signing Memorandum of Understanding and Cooperation with the association of Cities and Municipalities of the Federation of BiH and RS.
Mr. Radovan Kezunovic, President of the Association of Municipalities and Towns of Republic of Srpska said that cooperation between the two associations could be a good example for higher level authorities in our country.
23.03.2007
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World Bank Organizes Workshop for Local Governments on 27-29 March, 2007
SARAJEVO, Bosnia and Herzegovina, March 26, 2007 - The World Bank Institute and the World Bank Country Office in Bosnia and Herzegovina are organizing workshop “Local Governance and Social Accountability: New Perspectives in Bosnia and Herzegovina, Europe and Central Asia, and OECD Countries,” which will on March 27-29 assemble some 120 people, representing the BH local and national governments, regional NGOs, donor community and the World Bank.
This seminar is aimed at exploring new initiatives on social accountability and urban/local development in Europe and Central Asia, and in Bosnia and Herzegovina in particular. It will include dissemination of the results of a social audit of local governance in BIH and a regional workshop of social accountability practitioners from Europe and Central Asia.
20.02.2007
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The 2nd Assembly of of Association of Cities and Municipalities of the Federation of BiH will be held in Gradacac, on Thursday, March 22, 2007 at 13:00 pm. All cities and municipalities from the Federation have been invited to take a part.
27.12.2006
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Initiative for changing and amending the Law on Public Procurement.
The Agency for Public Procurement together with the Program of support to the system of public procurement in Bosnia and Herzegovina (EUPPP) started the initiative of amending and changing the Law on Public Procurement, with the aim of its improvement and removing the obstacles in its implementation.
The Association of Cities and Municipalities of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina with the support of USAID and SIDA project of governance accountability (GAP), joined this initiative with the purpose of meeting municipalities with the future changes in the Law, and in order for the municipalities to be involved in creating the amendments. This initiative will help in stressing shortcomings that have been noticed by now and in confirmation of good solutions.
For this purpose, the Association of Cities and Municipalities of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina with the support of USAID and SIDA project of governance accountability (GAP) organized together in the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina, five workshops on revision of the Law on Public Procurement.
The aim of these workshops was to make possible for municipal officials who work daily on the implementation of the Law on Public Procurement, to be involved in creating the changes and amendments to the same law, and to re-direct their attention to problems which they encounter in implementation of this law.
The first workshop was in Zenica on 27/11/2006. This workshop was attended by 34 representatives from the following municipalities: Fojnica, Zenica, Žepce, Zavidovici, Bugojno, Busovaca, Travnik, Maglaj, Tešanj, Doboj Jug, Kakanj, Gornji Vakuf/Uskoplje, Dobretici and Vitez.
The second workshop was in Mostar (hotel "Ero") on 28th of November 2006. 15 representatives from the following municipalities attended: Prozor - Rama, Grude, Jablanica, Tomislavgrad, Široki Brijeg, Grad Mostar, Citluk, Konjic and Capljina.
Third workshop took place in municipality Bihac on 30th of November 2006. 34 representatives of local self-governance participated in the workshop. Those were from the following municipalities: Cazin, Livno, Drvar, Bužim, Bihac, Bosanska Krupa, Glamoc, Sanski Most and Bosanski Petrovac.
The fourth workshop took place in Tuzla (hotel "Tuzla") on 4th of December 2006. 24 representatives from the municipalities attended, and those were from: Srebrenik, Kalesija, Gradacac, Tuzla, Živinice, Kladanj, Doboj Istok, Domaljevac-Šamac, Orašje, Sapna, Banovici, Celic and Teocak.
Fifth workshop was held in municipality Old Town- Sarajevo on the 6th of December 2006. The workshop was attended by 41 representatives from the following municipalities: Hadžici, Pale/Praca, Olovo, Stari Grad, Centar, Goražde, Vogošca, Ilijaš, Novi Grad, Vareš, Foca-Ustikolina, Novo Sarajevo, Breza, Ilidža and Visoko.
From the above stated, it is to be concluded that 148 representatives from 60 municipalities all together on the territory of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina participated in all workshops.
The representatives from municipalities gave a huge number of objections /comments about the Law on Public Procurement. Based on these objections and comments, the Association of Cities and Municipalities of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina and GAP project of Governance Accountability will prepare official comments and direct them towards Agency for Public Procurement and to the Council of Ministers in B&H.
We will inform you on time about all forthcoming events related to this..
01.02.2007
Awareness-raising campaign: “DOSTA!(1)”
"Dosta", a Romani word meaning "enough", is an awareness-raising campaign which aims at bringing non-Roma closer to Roma citizens.
"Dosta" means that we want to stop prejudices and stereotypes not by denouncing them but by breaking them, showing who the Roma are. They are not perfect, of course, but "who is perfect?". What is sure is that Roma are European citizens: they form a group of 8-10 million people and can be found in almost all Council of Europe member states; in some Central and Eastern European countries, they represent over 5% of the population.
Being European citizens means that Roma have not only obligations but also rights and aspirations like everybody else, and their citizenship and human rights must be recognized on equal bases.
The Dosta campaign will take place in five Eastern European countries, Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Montenegro, Serbia and "the former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia". It is clear that these five countries have different policies towards Roma, different cultural patterns and social norms, and different development levels of civil society. However, the messages "Dosta" wants to convey are the same for all European countries.
More information available at : www.dosta.org
12.12.2006
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Municipalities and cities fighting against Human Trafficking
Local authorities are the first to face the evil of illegal human trafficking and they must become the first line of defence in fighting against this and in assisting the victims. This is stated in Declaration on fight against trafficking in human beings, which was proposed by Congress of Local and Regional Authorities of the Council of Europe, and adopted on 31st of May, 2006.
With the wish for BH local authorities to be more actively involved in fight against this modern form of slavery, the Association of Cities and Municipalities of the Federation B&H, as a member of the Congress since November 1994, urged the invitation to all municiplaities and cities in the Federation of B&H, to put this Declaration on the agenda of their Municipal Council meeting, for discussion and signing.
By signing the Declaration and taking the obligations contained in it, we can show that local authoritires throughout Europe, are truly united in their readiness to focus their attention on the victims, and to stop these shameful human rights violations.
Until now, 40 municipalities and cities, members of the Association of Cities and Municiplaities of the Federation B&H, have already signed this Declaration.
12.12.2006
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THE 2nd ROUND OF BEACON SCHEMA
List of short-listed municipalities for Beacon status 2006/2007
The Association of Cities and Municipalities of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina and the Association of Town and Municipalities of Republika Srspka, in partnership with the OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina and the Council of Europe, have initiated in 2005 the Bosnia and Herzegovina Beacon Scheme with a view to recognize, promote and reward best practice among municipal authorities in BiH.
This round's themes, "Positive youth engagement in the local community and democratic processes", "Selective waste collection and disposal" and "Service delivery through partnerships" attracted a number of applications, 56 municipalities and cities from all over Bosnia and Herzegovina took part in this competition.
Advisory panel has short listed 14 municipalities/cities:
| Association |
City/Municipality |
Positive Youth Engagement in Democratic Processes |
Selective Waste Collection and Waste Disposal |
Service Delivery through Partnership |
|
RS |
BANJA LUKA |
|
|
X |
|
FBiH |
BIHAC |
X |
|
|
|
FBiH |
BOSANSKA KRUPA |
|
X |
|
|
BD |
BRCKO |
|
|
X |
|
RS |
BOSANSKI BROD |
|
|
X |
|
RS |
CELINAC |
|
X |
|
|
FBIH |
KLJUC |
|
|
X |
|
FBiH |
POSUSJE |
|
X |
|
|
RS |
LAKTAŠI |
X |
|
|
|
RS |
PRNJAVOR |
X |
|
|
|
RS |
VLASENICA |
X |
|
|
|
FBiH |
ZAVIDOVIĆI |
|
|
X |
|
RS |
ŠAMAC |
|
|
X |
|
RS |
PALE |
|
|
x |
In coming days advisory Panel experts will visit these municipalities with aim to verify their best practices. We use this opportunity to thank all our local communities that have taken a pert in this program.
27.11.2006
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Meeting related to the implementation of the Law on Principles of Local Self-governance
Agreed cooperation between Associations and partner organizations on the implementation of the Law on Principles of Local Self-governance in the Federation of B&H
At the meeting of the working group, held on the 3rd of November 2006. in the premises of the Association of cities and municipalities of FB&H, Musala 5, and attended by the representatives of the Council of Europe, GAP, OSCE, Parliament of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina and expert service of the Association which hosted the event, the topic of discussion were models of acting and cooperation of different organizations for implementation of the Law on Principles of Local Self-governance enacted in the Federation on September 7th 2006.
After exchanging opinions and discussion about the above mentioned law, conclusions related to coordination of activities of the mentioned organizations were adopted, in the sense of making the implementation of this law faster and easier and in order to hinder duplication and overlapping in the implementation, of course in the framework of these organizations' responsibilities and competencies.
Some of the conclusions were related to the need for lobbying on the part of the Association (SOGFBIH) and for making constant pressure on the central federal institutions of the executive and legislative power of B&H, with the aim of their imposing as the legitimate representatives of the local self-governance before the authorities in FB&H, in accordance with the guarantee in the Article 51 of the Law on Principles of Local Self-governance. This will be helped by the representatives from the Council of Europe, and in cooperation with OSCE and other partners the workshops will be organized, with the topic: implementation of the above mentioned law.
Additionally, OSCE will work on the new statutes of municipalities which will be complemented by the Law on Local Self-governance (Article 58), and it will organize the workshops involving the Association.
One of the most important priorities is making the cantonal law compliant with the above mentioned federal law, and this activity will be mostly helped by GAP which will make the analysis of this compliance. Also it will finance preparing of the comments/manual on the Law on Principles of Local Self-governance which will be done with the Association.
This meeting presented one in a row of examples of excellent cooperation between the Association of Cities and Municipalities of the Federation B&H and organizations which have in their focus the work of the units of local self-governance and which will, as we hope, be extended towards the authorities in FB&H.
22.11.2006
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Continuation of co-operation with SNV: visit from Macedonia
On Tuesday, 28th of November 2006 in the premises of the Association of Cities and Municipalities of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina, the meeting was held between the representatives of SNV Macedonia, SNV Bosnia and Herzegovina, and the Association of Cities and Municipalities of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina. SNV Macedonia and SNV B&H are partners to Associations of Municipalities and Cities in both countries and this was the chance for them to exchange experiences and identify the potential communal activities in the following period.
SNV Macedonia made the project of training for officials of ZELS (The Association of local authorities of Macedonia) and these trainings should enable them for further training delivery in municipalities, on the topic of strategic planning. The Ministry of local self governance in Macedonia has groups for decentralization and for financial questions in which there are the representatives from the Association, which has 14 employed.
The goal is in both Macedonia and in B&H, to strengthen the Associations from inside in order that they can deliver quality and efficient services to their members. Based on the necessities that have been recognized and according to the requests of municipalities addressed to the Association of Cities and Municipalities of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina, it has been planned to employ the financial expert who will be paid from the project with VNG, one of the strongest partners of the Association. SNV B&H translated into English language the Law on principles of local self-governance for the Association of Cities and Municipalities of the Federation B&H, and this translation is posted on Association's website. This law was enforced in September this year and its implementation has just started.
As one of the ideas for continuation and improving of communal activities on regional level, in the conclusion of this meeting, there was from both parties the suggestion for organizing regional conference. It would be organized by SNV Balkans and the topic would be: efficient Associations of local self-governance- the exchange of good practice. The event would be attended by the representatives from the Associations and local authorities from four Balkan countries where SNV exists, B&H; Macedonia, Montenegro and Albania. SOGFBIH suggested that the city of Sarajevo hosts this conference.
SNV B&H and Association of Cities and Municipalities of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina are continuing to work on previously identified issues of localization of EU, more precisely on preparing the municipalities for EU integrations. The first step is a questionnaire which will be distributed to all municipalities in order to confirm the present situation and capacities of municipalities in the area of strategic and project management, and to check the needs of local self-governance for assisting the Association of Cities and Municipalities of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Also, in January SOGFB&H prepares the communal meeting of all international and domestic partners of the Association, with the goal of presenting its action plan for the following period. This Action plan has been prepared with the assistance of municipalities and the Council of Europe. Besides presenting the Action plan, this meeting will start the dialogue about co-ordination of activities for its concretization and implementation.
22.11.2006
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ESTABLISHING COOPERATION BETWEEN ASSOCIATION OF CITIES AND MUNICIPLAITIES OF THE FEDERATION OF BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA AND DIRECTORATE FOR EUROPEAN INTEGRATIONS
The meeting between representatives of the Association of Cities and Municipalities of the Federation B&H and Directorate for European Integrations took place on Monday 20/11/2006, in the premises of UNITIC building. On behalf of DEI, the meeting was attended by Mr. Srdan Ljubojevic, Assistant to Director for coordination of assistance from EU. Executive Director of the Association of Federation. Vesna Travljanin pointed out that the Association expects to have 100% of the membership by the end of this year. She shortly presented the functions of the Association and emphasized the fact that the Association will try to promote itself in the following period in both Parliament and Federal Ministry of Justice, which is, at the moment, the resource Ministry for the Association, and which is supposed to work in the future, on strengthening the capacities of the Association. According to the Law on Principles of Local Self-governance which has been already adopted, the Association of Cities and Municipalities became the legitimate, lawful representative of its municipalities.
The aim of this meeting was involvement of local level in the processes of European integrations. DEI has already received the draft of the Memorandum of Understanding, which is supposed to be signed by both Associations (of Republic of Srpska and of the Federation B&H), in the incoming weeks. The Association needs the partnership with DEI, because there is the possibility that the Association, and also the municipalities of the Federation apply for the first circle of the pre-accession funds from EU. In this sense, the communication and cooperation with DEI will be continued. As Vesna Travljanin stressed, the Association would like to organize with the assistance of DEI, education of its municipalities about the pre-accession funds.
The main activity of DEI is coordination and also one part of programming which will be done by higher state officials. From this year onwards, all bilateral agreements from 25 states of the EU will go through DEI. It was promised during the meeting, that in cases when foreign states seek to establish the cooperation with the local level, DEI will proceed these requests to the Association. Vesna Travljanin pointed out in the end, that both Associations (from Republic of Srpska and from the Federation) have excellent cooperation and that it is important because of the fact that local level is closest to citizens. Furthermore, some steps have been made in order to establish the coordinating body on the state level. It is concluded that the Directorate will accept the partnership with the Association and sign the proposed Memorandum of Understanding, and that it will recognize both Associations as important partners in its future work.
19.11.2006
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REFORM OF PUBLIC ADMINISTRATION IN B&H: ONE OF THE PRE-CONDITIONS OF ENTRY IN THE EU
Associations of the Federation and Republika Srpska will be included in the process on behalf of their Municipalities and Cities
The Conference on the Reform of public administration was organized in Brcko by the Government of Brcko District and the Office of the BIH Coordinator for the reform of public administration, in the period from 10th to 11th of November, 2006.
Mr. Mirsad Ðapo, mayor of Brcko pointed out that it is not sufficient only in order to change the laws and to formally reform the administration, but for making this reform successful, it is essential to change the behaviour of the administration and the bad habits of the citizens.
Mr. Raffi Gregorian, supervisor for Brcko District, talked about the importance of Brcko which was, in all important reforms on state level, the first place where these reforms were actually implemented. Mr.Srda Vranic, BiH PAR co-ordinator pointed out that the process of reforms is complicated and very difficult, but necessary for accession of B&H to European Union, mainly because:" the modernization of the public administration is one of the basis of the reform package for B&H. It means organised introduction of European standards and changes which will systematically and permanently rise the level of the efficiency and lawfulness in the work of the administration""...with these reforms we create the capacities on the state level, for the absorption and distribution of the EU pre-accession funds, because after the future signing of the Association and Stabilisation Agreement with EU, B&H has to have well-built institutions, able to apply for pre-accession funds. Without these, we can't use the funds that have been directed to us.''
Jeroen Willems, Manager of the project Reform of public administration in the Delegation of the European Commission in B&H, mentions that:" Without the significant efforts to harmonize and strengthen the different levels of the public administration in B&H, and to make the whole administration more responsible, more effective and efficient, it will be almost impossible for B&H to make progress on its way to Europe". Mr. Folkert Milch,'s speech was focused on models of the implementation of the action plan 1 (AP1).
Mrs.Vesna Travljanin, Executive Director of the Association of Cities and Municipalities of the Federation B&H gave suggestion to the Office for Reform of Public Administration to consult in the future the local level, when making strategy of the public reform in B&H. She pointed out that changes and reforms in this field have direct impact on the work of municipalities and cities. Furthermore, in the Federation, unlike in Republic of Srpska, there is no Ministry for Local Self-governance. This fact makes the situation additionally difficult. The Association, as the legitimate representative of it members, needs to appear in the Steering Committee which created the Reform of public administration on state and other levels of the governance.
This idea was welcomed and in the following period, the Associations will be actively involved in this Reform.
The whole conference was held in peaceful tone and general acceptance of the future reforms as necessary conditions for approaching B&H to Euro-unionist integrations, the goal jointly envisaged by all levels of governance in B&H.
15.11.2006
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INTERVIEW: VESNA TRAVLJANIN FBiH CITIES ASSOCIATION DIRECTOR
Association as Bridge Between Foreign & Domestic Organizations
We try to be a bridge between domestic and foreign subjects. There are many foreign organizations working on individual public reform projects. Our goal is to direct all those projects to go through our Association.
This week Graz was a host city of a two-day seminar dubbed "Seminar on Cities and Municipalities Partnerships". One of seminar's co-organizers is the FBiH Association of Cities and Municipalities. Executive director of the Association, Ms. Vesna Travljanin says that this non-government organization has become a legitimate representative of cities and municipalities within FBiH and among foreign organizations. Namely, the Association has 75 member-cities/municipalities out of 80 existing. The Association is consulted and well respected as far as new domestic laws are being proposed related to local self-governance.
"Talking about foreign organizations, we are a bridge between domestic and foreign subjects. There are many Foreign organizations working on individual public reform projects. Our goal is to direct all those projects to go through our Association. That is why we have got in touch with some organization," says Ms. Travljanin, an experienced attorney with Bar exam and substantial working experience within domestic and international organizations.
What foreign organizations do you work with?
Among others we enjoy the support of the Council of Europe, UNDP that works on significant projects with municipalities, SCE, GAP, etc. Thus, the international cooperation is a significant part of our activities. Also, Governance Accountability Project (GAP), which is supported by the USAID and SIDA works with selected municipalities.
Does the Association cooperate with NGOs only?
No, we also cooperate with many embassies. Our goal is to represent our member municipalities' interests to not only non-government organizations, but also to foreign embassies. Netherlands government through its embassy in Bosnia and Herzegovina has provided very significant financial and other necessary support to the Association. The same applies to Norwegian government. Besides that we have achieved great level of cooperation with the Switzerland and British embassies that also help our organization. To cut long story short, the Association of Cities and Municipalities is profiling itself ever more as a true municipalities' representative at all government levels.
Currently, there are two Associations of Cities and Municipalities within Bosnia and Herzegovina. Do you cooperate with the RS Association?
FBiH Association works together with RS Association on establishing one combined institution that will be an umbrella under which both Associations would work.
Responsibilities of that institution will be determined upon its establishment. In my opinion, it should be Association's representation towards foreign partners. It should also work together on law proposals related to local self-government at the State level.
Why would foreign organizations work through the FBiH Association of Cities and Municipalities? What is their interest in cooperation with your NGO?
Foreign organizations already work with us. We are a domestic non-government organization that represents 75 cities and municipalities from the FBiH, which is almost one hundred per cent of possible membership. Foreign organizations are aware that domestic institutions must take over the responsibilities currently held by foreigners. Our, domestic institutions must get strong enough to take over foreign organizations' responsibilities in full capacity. The Association has very enthusiastic people willing to work hard in order to make our organization a strong one capable of representing BiH municipality interests to foreign organizations and governments.
Let us talk a little more about the Association itself, its employees and history?
The Association of FBiH Cities and Municipalities was established in 1973.
From the international aspect there are three key events that have made new perspectives of the Association and they are the following:
-Ratification of European Chamber for local self-government by BiH Government on October 1994
- Joining the Community of Municipalities and Cities of the BiH to the Congress of Local and Regional Autonomy of Europe
(CLRAE) as a Special guest status
-Joining the Bosnia and Herzegovina to the Council of Europe in April 2002.
As far as employees go, currently, besides me as the executive director there are general secretary, legal advisor and PR officer.
Those employees are financed by Nederland's embassy in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Also, we have a project with Norway, which employs one person. Norway government also helps our activities. UNDP has sent one of their employees to help us out in our work and she is also financed by the UNDP. From domestic institutions, Canton of Sarajevo has sent us one person from the unemployment bureau, so we constantly enhance our human resources. I would like to emphasize that all of our employees are highly skilled, well educated personnel who speak many foreign languages (i.e. English, German, French, Italian, etc.). Our aim is to finally become self-sustainable domestic institution.
S. B.
Vesna Travljanin
B&H Business, November 17, 2006
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CALL FOR APPLICATIONS FOR NALAS EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR.
Network of the Association of local authorities of SEE-NALAS announced the Call for applications for the position of NALAS Executive Director.
Please find enclosed:
Call for applications
Nalas application form
The deadline for submission of applications is December 4th, 2006.
29.09.2006
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Association of municipalities and cities FBiH in cooperation with Program SUTRA have organized three workshops on subject "Public communication with municipal employees and employees in informational sector''.
During the months of September and October more than 60 municipal employees, from the Federation and RS( municipalities that are included in program Sutra), were trained in the field of Public Relations. They took part in one of the three regional workshops that were held in the cities of Mostar, Sarajevo and Bugojno.
During the months of September and October more than 60 municipal employees, from the Federation and RS( municipalities that are included in program Sutra), were trained in the field of Public Relations. They took part in one of the three regional workshops that were held in the cities of Mostar, Sarajevo and Bugojno.
During one day long workshop experts from the field of Public Relations theoretically explained and practically showed communication skills with different audience. Participators had chance to write press releases, news, business letter and to follow one live radio and TV interview.
All participants expressed their satisfaction with the trainings and need for further development in this field. These workshops were realized with the financial help of KS-Association of Local and Regional Authorities of Norway.
15.09.2006
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THE 2nd ROUND OF BEACON SCHEMA
The OSCE Mission to Bosnia and Herzegovina and the Council of Europe, in partnership with the Association of Cities and Municipalities of the Federation and the Association of Town and Municipalities of Republika Srspka, have initiated in 2005 the Bosnia and Herzegovina Beacon Scheme with a view to recognize, promote and reward best practice among municipal authorities in BiH.
After a very successful and promising 1st Round, with many noteworthy examples of innovation and excellence, the OSCE, the Council of Europe and the FBIH and RS Associations of Local Authorities are glad to announce the official launching of a 2nd Round of Beacon Scheme, which it is hoped, will attract even more applications from municipalities than last year and even more exciting best pratices to present and to share.
Municipalities will again be able to apply for Beacon status in one or more of the three themes. This round's themes are "Positive youth engagement in the local community and democratic processes", "Selective waste collection and disposal" and "Service delivery through partnerships". If you feel your municipality has demonstrated excellence in one or more of these areas, you are encouraged to apply. The prospectus 2006/2007 (link) provides more information about the Scheme, how to apply and the benefits of Beacon status.
Applications should be submitted to the Association of Cities and Municipalities of FBiH, to the Association of Towns and Municipalities of Republika Srpska or to respective OSCE Field Office or submited electronically to either the website of the Association of Cities and Municipalities of FBiH (savez@sogfbih.ba), the website of the Association of Towns and Municipalities of Republika Srpska (info@alvrs.com) or at the following e-mail address: beaconapplications.2006@yahoo.com by Friday 20 October 2006 at the latest.
Association of Municipalities and Cities of the Federation of BiH encourages its members to apply and present its good practices.
15.09.2006
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The Declaration against Trafficking in human beings
The Declaration against Trafficking adopted during the Congresss 13 Plenary Session , and formally opened for signature on 31 of May 2006, takes the fight against trafficking in human beings-among the top priorities for the Council of Europe and Congress today-one step further , involving local authorities and recognizing their role in dealing with this modern form of slavery.
Local authorities are the first to be confronted with the evil of trafficing, and they must become the front line in the fight against it and in helping the victims. This is why the Congress welcomes the commitment of the first fifteen mayors who have signed the declaration and hopes that many more European cities will join this initiative, and sign the declaration on-line www.coe.int/stop-trafficking as soon as possible.
Associations of local authorities of the Federation and RS encourage their members to take an active part this initiative of the Congress and to circulate it widely within their municipalities and inform their citizens.
17.07.2006
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Memorandum of Understanding and Cooperation with SNV signed
Mrs. Vesna Travljanin, Executive Director of the Association and Mr. Wilbert Schouten, Portfolio Coordinator of SNV for Bosnia and Herzegovina
On Friday, July 14, 2006, in Sarajevo, representatives of the Association of Cities and Municipalities of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina and representatives of the Dutch organization for Development of Bosnia and Herzegovina (SNV) signed Memorandum of Understanding and mutual Cooperation.
The Dutch organization for development of B&H (SNV) is an international professional organization with 40 years of tradition. It cooperates with more than 1500 other organizations in 33 countries around the world, and it has the aim of reducing poverty and improving the quality of life. SNV in B&H also has the objective to assist the establishment of responsible and transparent local self-governance by providing advisory services, and by assisting B&H on the path to the EU. In accordance with this objective, SNV provides products and services to the participants in local development who support institutional and organizational development and who are ready to be the main bearers in connecting citizens, citizens' associations, private sector and local self-governance.
With regards to the fact that SNV showed interest and possibility to help the improvement and the rising of capacities of local self-governance, through the activities focused on bettering of understanding and inclusion of local authorities in processes of EU integration and on establishment of system for accession to EC Structural Funds. By these activities it assisted introducing European and international standards in local communities in the Federation of B&H, and efficient and functional decentralization of authorities, and therefore the Association sees is SNV a good partner, and it is welcoming the future cooperation, said Vesna Travljanin, Executive Director of the Association.
Additionally she pointed out: 'We believe that, with establishment of partnership relations and with communal action, we can achieve much more in developing local self-governance in Bosnia and Herzegovina'.
13.07.2006
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Notice about adoption of the Law on principles of local self-governance
Respectful members,
We are pleased to announce that yesterday on June 12, 2006, the Law on principles of local self -governance was passed in the House of Nations of the Parliament of Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Since this law was adopted by both houses of the Parliament of Federation B&H, but not in the same hard copy version, it is necessary to harmonize the texts and to reach the final version.
With this regulation, the units of local self-governance and the legislative in this field are being coordinated with the European standards. This Law opens a broad space of alternatives for continuation of reforms in very important areas, mainly because it makes obligatory for all levels of authority in the Federation of B&H to harmonize other legal regulations with the respect to this Law.
It is necessary to point out that in the Law, the Association of Cities and Municipalities of the Federation is positioned as legitimate representative of the municipalities. This has been done by giving to the Association the status of legal representative of its members before authorities in Federation, and therefore the legislator is obliged to provide the opinion of the Association of the Municipalities and Cities of the Federation B&H about all issues affecting local self-governance.
When the Law comes into force, we plan to organize the stream of activities related to its implementation.
Faithfully,
Vesna Travljanin
Executive Director
01.07.2006
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TRAINING of the PRs (Public Relations Officers) from the municipalities and cities of the Federation of B&H
The Association of Municipalities and Cities of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina and the project SUTRA by UNDP (permanent transfer of the responsibilities for return action to authorised institutions) work together on the preparation of training for staff/departments for public relations. It will have for objective the establishment of better internal and external communication in the municipalities and the cities of the Federation of B&H. The current action is making questionnaire/analysis of the needs related to training in the field of public relations in the Federation, and through this cooperation the analysis will help shaping and organizing of this training.
This analysis should point to the actual level of knowledge and experience of the agents for public relations in municipalities and cities, but also to the scope and kind of training that are required for improvement of knowledge, professional skills, and wish for participation in the training. This questionnaire should be filled in by agents/departments for public relations in your municipality/city.
27.06.2006
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The fourth meeting of the Working group for removal of obstacles to starting business in B&H
The fourth meeting of the Working group for removal of obstacles to starting business in B&H took place on June 13, 2006. in Sarajevo, and was organized by USAID SPIRA project. The suggestion for the change of law and book of rules with the aim of faster way of starting business, was discussed.
The meeting was attended by the Head of the Zenica Municipality, Husein Smajlovic, Director of Agency ZEDA, Muhsin Ibrahimagic and the Head of Tuzla Municipality, Jasmin Imamovic, and they presented, to the members of the working group, the achievements of the municipalities awarded by Beacon status for promotion of local economic development.
The aim of SPIRA project is to advance market-approach for small and medium enterprises (MSP), by reducing administrative obstacles which stand on the way to their establishment and work. SPIRA will focus on improving the process of registration of commercial activity, on the issuing of the building certificates and on the regime of inspections in the whole state of B&H.
22.06.2006
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Concluding statement of the participants in Third Conference of the Prefects/Mayors and civil society of B&H ''Local self-governance, regional cooperation in B&H and European integration''
From 15th to 17th of June, 2006, the Third Conference of the Prefects/Mayors and civil society of B&H ''Local self-governance, regional cooperation in B&H and European integration'', was held in Mostar. Prefects and mayors, as well as the representatives of non-governmental organisations and international community in B&H and of the Congress of local and regional authorities of the Council of Europe, all participated in the Conference. The topics of discussion were: economic and social development of local communities, realizing human rights and freedoms of both male and female citizens; implementation of the European Charter on Local Self-governance; the program of cooperation of municipalities and cities in B&H; regional, Euro-regional, and trans-borders cooperation among cities and the role of local communities in the process of negotiations of SAA (Association and Stabilisation Agreement) with the EU. The special emphasis in the conference was put on the changes in the state that will follow the process of accession to EU, namely changes related to the development of European standards and strategic objectives, which are the following:
1. functional de-centralisation of the authorities in B&H which will affirm local self-governance as the site of active participation of the citizens in realizing new quality of life;
2. the corresponding fiscal decentralization in the state which will assure the responsible and proper management of local resources and development;
3. modern, efficient and professional staff in the local administration;
4. the establishment of the highest-quality services for the citizens and for the interested private and non-governmental sector, and strengthening of the civil society with respect to European standards;
5. active participation of the citizens in public affairs;
6. coordinated and creative performing of all public functions;
7. the mutual cooperation of municipalities and cities in the state, region, Europe and the world.
The conference stated that for the realization of these aims, the key actors are: citizens, prefects/mayors, municipal assemblies, local administration and all levels of authority.
The conference was held in the framework of three planetary sessions and three working round tables.
22.06.2006
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The study-trip of the prefects of BH municipalities to Great Britain
The twelve representatives of the six BH municipalities awarded by Beacon status in 2005, Prnjavor, Tuzla, Zenica, Eastern Sarajevo, Šekovici, Srebrenik, participated in the study-trip to Great Britain from 5th to 9th of June, 2006. The visit consisted of one day training in London and two days spent in municipality with Beacon status in Great Britain which was awarded with Beacon for the similar achievements as the BH municipalities. The representatives were joined by the president of the Steering Committee, the president of Advisory Commission and one permanent member of the same Commission, and also by the representatives from OSCE Mission in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The delegation was additionally joined by members from the Association of Cities and Municipalities in FB&H and RS.
12.06.2006
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3rd Conference of Mayors
Association of Cities and Municipalities of the Federation of BiH in cooperation with Association of Cities and Municipalities of Republic of Srpska, International Peace Center-Sarajevo, City of Mostar and Congress of Local and Regional Authorities of Council of Europe is organizing 3rd Conference of Mayors, in City of Mostar from 15th to 17th of June 2006.
Conference Agenda:
a) A retrospect to the Plan of the Activities 2005 / 2006
b) Local societies - European integrations and the Role of the Chiefs of Municipalities and Mayors in the development of local society and their mutual cooperation
c) NALAS process
d) Plan of the Activities 2006/ 2007
e) The decision on the host city of the 4th Conference of Mayors, Chiefs of Municipalities and Actors of the Civil Society 2007
01.06.2006
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The Reform of actual-legal relations in the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina
On the 23rd of March, 2006., in the premises of the Parliament of the Federation of B&H, the Association of Municipalities and Cities of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina, with the assistance of USAID and SIDA Project of Governance Accountability (GAP), and in cooperation with the Federal Ministry of Justice, organized the Conference on Reform of actual-legal relations in the Federation of B&H.
The Federal Ministry of Justice, in cooperation with GTZ is in the phase of making the draft of this Law on actual rights in FB&H. For the municipalities, the special importance represents the transformation of the public property into private, and the introduction of the new institutes: the right to construction/building and the right to terrier/land debt.
Previously, the representatives of local authorities did not have any chance to learn about the novelties brought by the Law on actual rights. This law will be of the crucial importance for governance of municipal property in the future. For this purpose, The Association of Municipalities and Cities of FB&H, in cooperation with GAP and Federal Ministry of Justice organized the Conference which marked the beginning of the inclusion of local authorities in this important reform.
136 persons attended the conference.
After this conference was held, the Association sent questionnaires, in order that the representatives of the local authorities have an opportunity to give their comments to the draft of this Law on actual rights in FB&H. They were supposed to send their answers until 12th of April, 2006.
In the period from April 13th to April 27th, 2006., The Association, together with GAP and Mrs. Sanja Ivic, the lawyer from Sarajevo (and the member of the Working Group which drafted the Law on actual rights) organized 8 workshops about the Reform of the actual-legal relations, and invited the employees from the following municipal offices for property and legal issues:
1. Tuzla - 13.04.2006.
2. Tuzla - 14.04.2006.
3. Zenica - 17.04.2006.
4. Bihac - 19.04.2006.
5. Mostar - 24.04.2006.
6. Neum - 25.04.2006.
7. Sarajevo - 26.04.2006.
8. Travnik - 27.04.2006.
All workshops were attended by 121 state officials from a huge number of municipalities in the Federation of B&H.
It is very important to mention that for the first time, the municipalities had an opportunity to be involved in process of creation of the Law at this stage. Namely, up-to date practice was to introduce the public during the public debates with the preliminary draft of the Legislation. The Association lobbied and it concluded that it was necessary for the municipalities to be involved before in creation of this Law of huge impact and importance for them.
After workshops have been held, the Association made records from the workshops. The records contain all comments and suggestions on the part of the municipalities and related to the preliminary draft of the Legislation. The records were delivered to the Ministry of Justice and to the GTZ (and to all members of the Working Group). During the meetings of the Working Group, these records were already extensively debated. In the future we will inform the municipalities about this process which is now is in progress.
29.05.2006
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The active contribution of municipalities and cities to the planning of activities of the Association
The Association of Municipalities and Cities of the Federation of B&H in cooperation with the Council of Europe, organized the first regional meeting of the of the officials/prefects, within the project entitled 'Strengthening capacities of the Association of Municipalities and Cities of FB&H' in the municipality of Široki Brijeg, on the 24th of May, 2006.
The representatives of 6 BH municipalities: Široki Brijeg, Kupres, Posušje, Grude, Konjic and Tomislavgrad, together with the staff of the Association and experts from the Council of Europe worked on SWOT analysis. The aim of this analysis was to identify the strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats, which all affect the work of the Association in a positive or negative manner, and to gain the information relevant to planning of the future activities.
The coordinator of this project, Ms. Šejla Hasic pointed out that this is just one of the meetings which are planned and which have the objective to actively involve the representatives of municipalities and cities of B&H in creating the policy of the Association.
In the end, Šejla pointed out: "We exist because of the local communities and we consider them the most competent to give the lines of direction for the future activities of the Association".
14.05.2006
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The New Program of the Council of Europe "Strengthening capacities of the Association of Municipalities and Cities of FB&H"
The Council of Europe in cooperation with the Association of Municipalities and Cities of FB&H started the new project "Strengthening Capacities of the Association with the aim of improving the provision of services". The aim of this project is the estimation of abilities of the Association and the development of the realist vision, which will be transformed into clearly defined goals and plans, and have as a consequence, the final result in delivering more efficient services to the members of the Association.
Starting from the fact that the Association presents forum for interchange of ideas and good practice in solving problems, the first step was launching of the project workshop. All members of the Presidency took part in it, as well as the experts from the Council of Europe and the members of the staff of the Association. They worked together on the SWOT analysis. This analysis showed which strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats influence positively or negatively the work of the Association, and it gave the information relevant for planning of the future activities.
The next planned steps are the regional meetings with the municipal officials/prefects, who can contribute with their suggestions and proposals to defining the future work of the Association. The focus activity on these meetings will be the creation of Policy Paper, which is supposed to give concrete lines of direction for the work of the Association. The emphasis will be on ensuring broad representation of different opinions and attitudes, on the part of both the municipalities and the partners' organizations, about the type of services, which should be delivered by the Association to its members and about the ways in which these services can be provided.
The final result of this project will be the further development of the Strategic plan of the Association, for the next 3-5 years, which should answer the following questions: Where is the Association now? Where does the Association want to be in the next 3-5 years? How it will reach these objectives? Which actions should be taken and when? Who will do what? When and how the evaluation is going to be made?
10.05.2006
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1st BISE FORUM in Bosnia and Herzegovina
In cooperation with CENER 21, Energie-Cities, ADEME Associations of cities and municipalities of the Federation of BiH and RS had organized the 1st BISE Forum ''Intelligent Energy in Bosnia and Herzegovina's Municipalities'' in Sarajevo, on 27 of April.
More than 130 representatives of municipalities, ministries, local and international organizations gathered and expressed the need for better use of energy resources and protection of environment in Bosnia and Herzegovina. Participants agreed that municipalities and cities, in cooperation with other levels of government, should take an active role in creation of a strategy for efficent use of energy and protection of environment, that will secure better living conditions and environment for its citizens such as the case in developed countries of Europe.
Association of Cities and Municipalities of the Federation will continue to give support to its members in this field.
CONCLUSIONS
1. It is necessary to establish the energy network of municipalities and cities in B&H, on regional and integral level;
2. to use international experiences of networking of municipalities and cities in order to increase energetic efficiency (the experiences from Bulgaria and from elsewhere);
3. Municipalities and cities of B&H will provide material and other conditions and opportunities for increasing energetic efficiency through establishment of organizational and framework structure, and by preparing the plans and programs for realizing drafted objectives;
4. Municipalities and cities should take an active role in identifying obstacles for improvement of energy efficiency, in finding solutions, in promotion and benchmarking;
5. Municipalities and cities will actively cooperate, mutually and with the Associations and CENER 21 (with partners) on realization of the remaining activities of the first phase and the rest of the activities in the area of energetic efficiency;
6. Municipalities and cities are not only consumers, but also producers, distributors of energy and planners of the urban and rural areas, investors, participants and authors in making of the norms and regulations, and they will persist in realizing the rights and obligations that are assigned to them;
7. The second BISE Forum in B&H will take place in 2007, in the period between April and May, in Bijeljina. The up-to-date progress and the new possible achievements will be closely inspected;
8. In the period between two Forums, the BISE Forums for particular regions in B&H will be organized by Association and CENER 21 (with partners) and they will be aimed at communal and characteristic questions, topics and problems of the particular regions.
10.05.2006
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Beacon Schema-AWARD CEREMONY
Winners of the Beacon Scheme in Bosnia and Herzegovina will be anounced at the Award Ceremony that will take place in the UNITIC Business Centre, in Sarajevo on Wednesday, 05 April 2006.
The BiH Beacon Scheme is designed to raise standards in municipal governance by recognising excellence and supporting the dissemination of best practices throughout the country. The Beacon Scheme Award Ceremony marks the beginning of the dissemination phase and during the next twelve months six Beacon Municipalities will share their experiences and best practice with other municipalities. The second round of the Scheme and the broad themes for 2006-2007 will also be announced during the Award Ceremony.
The Scheme was developed as a result of collaboration between the OSCE Mission to BiH, Council of Europe, Associations of Towns and Municipalities of Republika Srpska, Brcko District and Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina and receives financial support from the British and Swiss governments
10.05.2006
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RESEARCH IN THE AREA OF PUBLIC POLICIES
10 researchers presented the results of their work on the presentation organized by Open Society Fund and ACIPS (Association of the Alumni Centre for Interdisciplinary Postgraduate Studies). The aim was starting the dialogue about recommendations for the changes in Public Policies.
Open Society Fund started the program of support to research in the area of Public Policies at the beginning of 2004. The objective of this program is the improvement of investigation and analysis of the public policies, which would further contribute to the establishment of reasonable dialogue and to development of the new way of making decisions in the field of public policies, the one that would dwell on relevant information and realist options.
The program comprises education in the area of researching public policies, as well as the fellowship and mentorship for research.
Until now, within this program, scholarships were awarded to 17 researchers/stipends. This presentation was an opportunity for 10 researchers to show their work.
We extract the results-Policy Papers which have the focus on local self-governance..
10.05.2006
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FIRST TRAINING OF COUNCILORS-MUNICIPALITY NOVO SARAJEVO
Association of Cities and Municipalities in cooperation with KS (Association of Local and regional Authorities of Norway) held the first training of municipal councilors in Municipality Novo Sarajevo, from 3rd to 4th of April 2006.
The main goal of this training is to increase understanding of the roles and responsibilities of elected councilors in the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina and to equip them with necessary knowledge about laws, legislation and communication and help them in fulfillment of their tasks.
This is the first out of 25 planned trainings that will be held through out the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina.
11.04.2006
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The Letter to the High Representative for Bosnia and Herzegovina Mr. Christian Schwarz Schilling
SUBJECT: The Law on the ownership of public benefits in the Federation of B&H- U R G E N T
Respected Excellency,
The Association of Municipalities and Cities of the Federation of B&H
(further in text: the Association) is constituted on the Founding Assembly on May, 29th, 2002, as a legal successor of the Association of Municipalities and Cities of the Republic of Bosnia and Herzegovina established in 1973. It has the aim to create efficient, self-sustainable and democratic local self-governance through communal work of municipalities and cities and through delivering quality services and information to the municipalities in order to represent the communal interests of its members on the higher levels of authority and on the international scale. The Association of the Federation of B&H gathers 75 members out of 78 municipalities and two cities in the Federation of B&H. Thanks to the donors, to the governments of the Kingdoms of Norway and Holland above all, we succeeded in strengthening the Association with professional and qualified human resources within the framework of the expert service of the Association, and in this way we enabled broadening of the services delivered to members of the Association.
11.04.2006
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BISE Forum
Bosnia and Herzegovina
With continuation of the initiative of establishment of permanent BISE Forum (Better Integration for Sustainable Energy -) on the topic of "Intelligent energy" of the European municipalities and cities in the states which are new members of EU, but also in the candidate-states and states of the Western Balkans, BISE Forum for Bosnia and Herzegovina will take place on April 27th, 2006. in B&H.
The representatives from Municipalities and Cities from Bosnia and Herzegovina, from Ministries and relevant institutions in the area of energetics in B&H will all attend this Forum. Invitations to the municipalities to take part in this event are being sent.
11.04.2006
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''Beacon scheme" awarded to the representatives of six municipalities in B&H
On Wednesday, April 5th, 2006, in Sarajevo the so-called Beacon schemes were awarded to the prefects/officials of municipalities Tuzla, Zenica, East Sarajevo, Šekovici, Srebrenik and Prnjavor for their results achieved in the following areas: Promotion of Local Development, Efficient Strategic Planning and Establishment of Closer Relations with the Citizens.
Beacon Scheme was for the first time presented in Great Britain in 1999. with the objective to identify successful centres of local authorities and to expand their good practice/to benchmark.
08.04.2006
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LET'S INCREASE THE LEVEL OF SUCCESSFUL MUNICIPAL GOVERNANCE
The training of the officials in the municipality Novi Grad- Sarajevo
The Association of Municipalities and Cities of the Federation of B&H in cooperation with KS (The Association of local and regional authorities of the Kingdom of Norway) organized from April 3rd to 4th, 2006, the training of the officials in the municipality of Novi Grad Sarajevo. This is the first out of 25 planned trainings in municipalities and cities on the territory of the Federation.
The main purpose of this training is to improve the understanding of the role and responsibility of the newly-elected officials in the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina, and to introduce them better with the legislation and regulations related to local self-governance. This training comprises detailed education of the officials about the legislation on the local self-governance, but also about its financial frameworks. The special emphasis was put onto the topics related to the roles of elected officials.
The participants evaluated the training as very successful and useful for their work in the future. It is important to point out that everyone agreed that the elaborated themes were relevant and of huge importance for the efficient work of the officials/ committ
07.04.2006
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''Conference on Reform of the actual-legal relations in the Federation of B&H ''held
-Announcement: the Workshop about the Reform of actual-legal relations
The Association of Municipalities and Cities of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina, with support from USAID and SIDA Project of Governance Accountability (GAP-a), and in cooperation with the Federal Ministry of Justice organized the Conference on the Reform of the actual-legal relations in the Federation of B&H, in Sarajevo, on the March, 23rd , 2006.
This assembly was attended by 120 representatives from 55 municipalities from the territory of the Federation of B&H and they were introduced with the basics of the draft of the Law on actual rights. They exposed their opinions and marked the beginning of inclusion of local authorities in this important Reform.
The assistant to the Minister of Justice of the Federation B&H Džemaludin Mutapcic said that the draft of the Law on actual rights in FB&H presents the reform of the already existing laws in the field of actual rights, which number about 150 on the territory of the Federation.
"We want to create one unified Law which would entirely regulate this matter and which would replace and abolish the existing 150 laws ", pointed Mutapcic.
We expect the draft of the above mentioned law to enter the parliamentary procedure in the middle of this year.
For the municiplaities, at this moment, it is important to include themselves in the creation of this Law which will be applied in the future, to point to its eventual shortcomings and to confirm the good solutions which are according to their experience and opinion, offered in the preliminary draft.
The sending of the invitations for attendance of workshops on this topic which will be held in April is now in progress. The aim of these workshops on the Reform of the actual-legal relations in FB&H is to enable the municipal officials, who encounter daily, different problems in the field of property-legal relations, to give their contribution to the creation of this Law on actual rights.
06.04.2006
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THE FIRST MEETING OF THE WORKING GROUPS- Simplifying the activities of issuing permits and of the inspections-regime (Delegating the representatives of municipalities in working groups)
The first meeting of the working groups SPIRA, the project of the USA Agency for International Development, was held in the premises of Sarajevo Regional Development Agency SERDA on March 28th 2006. The main topic of discussion in this meeting, attended by the representatives of the institutions in authority of the F B&H, was the Reform of the registartion of the business subjects and the Reform in the field of issuing of building/construction permits. This meeting was opened by the director of the project SPIRA Andy Boname and the counsellor for private sector of the USAID, Daniel LEE.
Director of SERDA Ševkija Okeric greeted the activities, planned during the SPIRA process. Within these activities Sarajevo Regional Development Agency was recognized as partner in the process of economic recovery of B&H and its regions.
06.04.2006
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The activities of The Association on the adoption of the Law on the public benefits ownership
During the debate about the Law on the ownership of public benefits in front of the Constitutional Court, which took place on March 30th, 2006, the Association of Municipalities and Cities of the Federation of B&H took an active part in the discussion, mainly through its representatives and the delivered documentation, and this was an opportunity for the Association to give its full support to this new Legislation.
30.03.2006
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The Beacon status awarded to 6 BH municipalities in the near future
The municipalities and cities, the winners of the award "Beacon Status" for the best practice in the fields of: Promotion of Local Development, Efficient Strategic Planning and Establishment of Closer Relations with the Citizens, will be announced and awarded at the ceremony in Sarajevo (UNITIC) on April 5th, 2006.
Beacon Scheme was for the first time presented in Great Britain in 1999. The goal was identifying the successful centres of local self -governance and expanding their good practice. OSCE, The Council of Europe and the Associations of municipalities and cities of the Federation and RS, recognized the necessity for this kind of interchange of knowledge and experience in the field of local self-governance, and with the financial aid of the Governments of Switzerland and Great Britain, they started the same program in B&H. This project involved all local communities in B&H, and their inclusion is testified by a huge number of applications from 78 municipalities and cities from the entire B&H.
In order to be qualified for Beacon Status, municipalities had to show that they achieved the success in one of the Beacon topics, but also that they have plans for efficient exchange. The victorious municipalities will be granted smaller amounts, in order to promote their best practical experiences, through publications, media and the "days of open doors" for the visitors. The representatives of these six BH municipalities will visit the Beacon municipalities in Great Britain. The purpose of this visit is the future exchange of the best practical experiences and acquiring new knowledge.
We are sending the official letters to the municipalities in order that they can suggest the topics for the next year and that they can give their proposals related to this program and take an active role in the new circle of Beacon Scheme. The Association will, in the future, support the programs which have the aim of increasing the level of standards.
30.03.2006
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The Constitutional Court of FB&H- the Debate on the Law on the ownership of public benefits
In the sequence you can find one of the numerous articles, published in the daily press, about one of the debates which took place in front of the Constitutional Court of the Fedeartion of B&H on March 30th, 2006. The Association of Municipalities and Cities of the Federation of B&H was involved in the whole process of the creation of the Law on the ownership of public benefits, and this was an opportunity for the Association to take an active role in the debate through its representatives . We hope that the final decision of the Constitutional Cours of the Federation of B&H will be righteous and that the municipalities and cities will get the indespensable resources which belong to them.The Assocition will in the future try to represent in the best possible way the interests of its members, both municiplaities and cities.
28.03.2006
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The Conclusion from the session of the House of Representatives of the Fedeartion of B&H
The Parliament of the Federation B&H today came to a conclusion which requires from the Government to coordinate its Decision on the distribution of public funds with the Decision on giving authority to the Government for making the previous decision, and to make an urgent transfer of the funds to the municipalities, according to established criteria, and up to the amount which they gathered from indirect taxes in 2005.
21.03.2006
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Invitation to media, Conference about the Reform of the actual-legal relations in the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina
The Association of Municpalities and Cities of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina, with the support of USAID and SIDA project of Governance Accountability (GAP), and in coopertaion with the Federal Munistry of Justice organizes the Conference on the actual-legal relations in the Federation ofr B&H, in Sarajevo, in the building of the Parliament of the Federation B&H , street Hamdije Kreševljakovica number 3, starting at 11.
The representatives of the local authorities did not have any chance until now, to introduce themselves with the novelties brought by the Law on actual rights, and these will, as we believe, be of crucial importance for governance of municipal property in the future. For this purpose, the Association of Municipalities and Cities, in copertaion with GAP and Federal Ministry of Justice organizes the conference in order to mark the beginning of the inclusion of local authorities in this significant Reform.
The presence of 120 representatives from 55 municiplaities of the Federation B&H was confirmed.
21.03.2006
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The First meeting of the European State associations of local and regional authorities, organized by the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities of the Council of Europe.
The Congress of the Local and Regional Authorities of the Council of Europe organized the first meeting of the State associations of local and regional authorities from the member-states and observers in the Council of Europe, from 23rd to 24th of February, 2006 in Strasbourg.
The topic of discussion in the confernece, attended by mayors, representatives of regions and State associations of the local and regional authorities, was improvement of cooperation between Congress and Association,and the role of the State associations in their relations with the central governments.
21.03.2006
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The representatives of the Delegation of Turkey expressed the wish to continue the cooperation
The Delegation of 15 members, the representatives of the Association of Municipalities and Cities ''Mahalli Idareler Dernegi'' spent a few days visiting B&H, and responded to the invitation from the Association of Municipalities and Cities of FB&H. The officials/prefects, the presiding OV and their co-operators from three Turkish cities Buce, Izmir and Bagcilar, visited the municipalities Centre-Sarajevo, Novi Grad Sarajevo, Tuzla and the city of Mostar. They were introduced with the situation in local self-governance, with the good practice and possibilities for further cooperation.
13.03.2006
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THE LETTER TO THE PRIME MINISTER AHMET HADŽIPAŠIC
The Association of Municipalities and Cities of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina sent a letter to the Prime Minister Ahmet Hadzipasic on December 21st 2005. However, not even after a few interventions (including the direct contact with the Prime Minister, and the telephone call), our efforts for arranging the meeting with the Prime Minister brought any result. We would like to inform our members that we will continue to work on this.
09.02.2006
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THE VISIT OF THE TURKISH LOCAL AUTHORITIES ANNOUNCED
-delivery of the promotional material of the municiplaities/cities to the Association of FB&H
The representatives of the Association of Municipalities and Cities of Turkey ''Mahalli Idareler Dernegi'' expressed their interest in establishing cooperation and exchange of experiences and knowledge in the field of local self-goverannce. For this purpose, the visit of about 30 prefects/officials from Turkey is announced to the Association of Municipalities and Cities of the Federation in March 2006.
With the purpose of better organizing of the reception and possible visits to the municipalities and cities of FB&H we would like to ask the reponsible in municiplaities/cities to send us the promotion material: brochures, CDs, posters, photos etc.
The activities of the Association in the future, will be directed towards improvement and establishment of the cooperation of the local communities in B&H, with other local communities in Europe. The aim will be strengthening the local self- governance. If you have some proposals and experiences which you would like to share with other communities, and which are related to the establishment of this kind of coopertaion, please contact us.
09.02.2006
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ABSTRACT - THE STUDY OF THE IMAGE OF THE ASOCIATION FB&H AND RS
The study of the image of the Association of Municipalities and Cities of FB&H and Association of Municipalities and Cities of RS, was made by experts Gerrita Jan Scheep from Holland, during the Third Conference of the local communities in B&H which took place in Brcko, on November 23rd, 2005. 110 participants attended the Conference : the representatives of municiplaities, non-governamental, governamnetal and interntional organizations. Two thirds (2/3) of the participants to the Conference took part in this study, by filling in the questionnaires that were sent to them.
The general conclusion of this study was that the members of both Associations wish to have strong Associations,which will be able to assist them in their daily work by delivering professional services and trainings, by representing their interests,by giving them legal advice etc. The representatives of the municiplaities and cities in RS evaluated the work of their Association a bit better, than their colleagues in FB&H.
