SCTM participated in the 34th Economic Forum in Karpacz

Nikola Tarbuk, Secretary General of the SCTM and Edi Majstorović, Director of the Sector for Local Self-Government Development Projects at the SCTM, participated in the 34th Economic Forum, one of the most important international gatherings of political and economic leaders of Central and Eastern Europe and a platform for political and economic dialogue in the region, which was held from 2 to 4 September 2025 in Karpacz, Poland. 

The Forum brings together presidents, heads of government, ministers, politicians, representatives of local governments, business leaders, prominent figures from culture and sports, renowned scientists, influential journalists and representatives of non-governmental organizations. Every year, a detailed analysis of key trends, processes and challenges shapes the rich program of the Economic Forum. This program includes more than 550 events dedicated to a wide range of important topics such as politics, innovative economy, sustainable development, civil society, environmental protection and various aspects of security. The goal of this event is not only to discuss ideas, but also to propose concrete solutions and innovations. 

At the international panel entitled "One strategy, different levels – how to coordinate the actions of national and regional development institutions?", the Secretary General of the SCTM presented Serbia's experiences in the development and reform of local self-government, especially in the area of public policy planning. 

The presentation particularly highlighted the key challenges from the previous period and the reforms, i.e. the processes that laid the foundations for integrated planning, linking plans and budgets, mandatory public involvement and the introduction of mechanisms for monitoring the implementation of adopted policies. The role of the SCTM as a national association of local self-governments was also presented, which played an important role in implementing reforms, providing support to its members and strengthening their capacities, especially through processes related to European integration. 

Four key lessons from the Serbian experience were also highlighted through the discussion: 

• coordination can also be built through inter-municipal cooperation and functional cooperation of local self-governments and regional development agencies, 

• vertical and horizontal cooperation should be institutionalized, not ad hoc, 

• capacity development at the local level is a prerequisite for implementing reforms, 

• the European integration process is a strong driver of change and standardization of the planning process. 

Additionally, the Secretary General of the SCTM referred to the current activities of local authorities in the development of territorial strategies for the development of urban areas and the introduction of a new improved way of planning and implementing development projects in accordance with EU principles. Serbia's experiences can be a valuable contribution to the discussion on the modernization of public administration and the improvement of planning in the countries of Central and Eastern Europe, especially those undergoing the process of European integration. 

More about the Economic Forum https://www.forum-ekonomiczne.pl/