The APL reform promoted by the current government is not a condition imposed by the European Union, and its success depends on achieving a broad consensus both at the political level and within society. This statement was made by IPRE associate expert Daniel Voda during the public debate “Local Public Administration Reform and European Integration: Necessity, Effectiveness and the European Path”, organized by the IPN News Agency. The expert emphasized that the need for LPA reform has been recognized for several years and does not stem from the country’s obligations assumed during the EU accession process.
The expert from the Institute for European Policies and Reforms mentioned that the current administrative model, especially at the level of the regional councils, has lost its relevance and efficiency.
“The APL reform is not a condition imposed by the European Union. It is a reform that should have been implemented by the former governments. Everyone agrees that the regional centers have lost the power they had during the Soviet era, starting with the 90s the prerogatives of the regional councils have gradually decreased. Today, at the level of the regional councils, we are in a situation where political parties share power and appoint people to positions. It’s very rare when regional councils can have their own projects or can attract international funds”, explained Daniel Voda.
At the same time, he warned that discussions about administrative reorganization should not be limited to political confrontations. “I am glad that the Government has included this topic on the public agenda. I do not want this discussion to turn into just political debates at the Parliament level. Today I believe that for the APL reform there are only the 55 votes of the PAS and the other parties will vote against, but if we look at the electoral programs of all parties, all formations said that this reform is necessary”, said Daniel Voda.
In the opinion of the IPRE expert, the Government has initiated an active campaign of information and consultation on the edge of reform, however for the legitimacy and durability of this, there is a need for a more consistent involvement of all political actors and extensive parliamentary support.
“We are witnessing a very active communication campaign by the Government on this subject. I see a lot of content in this regard, discussions are taking place with mayors, but I believe that political formations also need to get more involved. It is necessary for this reform to not just pass with 55 votes, a broader consensus is needed in Parliament”, said the associated IPRE expert.
Disclaimer: This material was prepared by the IPN News Agency as part of the “Local Public Administration Reform Through Dialogue” project, funded by the Ministry of Culture through the Media Grant Fund.
