KS’ International Projects 2016 Annual Report

KOMMUNESEKTORENS ORGANISASJON 3 The Norwegian Association of Local And Regional Authorities About KS’ International Projects

KS INTERNATIONAL PROJECTS

KS International Projects is the international In the outgoing EEA Grants period (2009- unit of The Norwegian Association for Local 2014) KS was Donor Programme Partner and Regional Authorities (KS). The unit (DPP) for capacity-building and institutional receives support from the Norwegian Ministry co-operation in Bulgaria, Hungary, Latvia of Foreign Affairs (NMFA) and the European and , as well as in the field of Economic Area (EEA) financial mechanisms children and youth at risk in . through projects and participation in programmes. KS International Projects The next period runs from 2017 until the end consists of five full-time project managers. of 2021, with the possibility of prolonging Professional expertise from other KS staff projects until 2024. The total budget is €2.8 as well as from KS members is drawn into billion. The donor countries and beneficiary the projects when needed. The international states are at the moment negotiating the project unit also co-operates with other individual content of country-specific relevant organisations and ministries in programmes, but it is already clear that About KS International Projects………………………………………………………………………………...... , depending on the focus and theme KS will be a donor programme partner in of the project. Romania and Bulgaria. In Romania, the Preamble...... ……………………………………………………………………………………………… programme has a budget of €70 million, for Project Overview 2016……………………………………………………………………………………………… EEA AND NORWAY GRANTS Local Development and Enhanced Roma PART 1: Review 2016…………………………………………………………………………………………….. Inclusion. In Bulgaria, the budget is €35 The Grants are the contributions of Iceland, million, for Local Development, Poverty Polish-Norwegian Co-operation Platform for Climate and Energy Efficency...... Liechtenstein and Norway towards reducing Reduction and Enhanced Inclusion of Lithuania: Local action for better air quality and sustainable energy solutions……………..…... economic and social disparities and Vulnerable Groups. KS may also become strengthening bilateral relations with 15 EU a programme partner or project partner in Local self-governance in Georgia……………………………………………………………………... countries in Central and Southern Europe. other countries under the EEA and Norway Public sector mutual exchange programme between Norway and ………………...... Through the European Economic Area Grants. Capacity Building and institutional co-operation with Hungary…………………………...... (EEA) Agreement, Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway are partners in the Internal NORWEGIAN MINISTRY OF FOREIGN Successful local self-governance capacity building in Latvia…………………………...... Market with the 28 EU member states. The AFFAIRS Ukraine’s future stability and local government………………………………………...... …...... countries also share common values and responsibilities with other European countries KS has also received funding from the Decent Work and Tripartite Dialogue in EEA and Norway Grants 2014-2021………………...... to promote equality of opportunity, tolerance, Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs PART 2: General outlook and EEA and Norway Grants 2014-21……………………………………………. security, environmental sustainability and a (NMFA) for numerous co-operation projects. KS advocacy and involvement in international policy formulation.……………………….………. decent standard of living for all. Funds are set Norway has a solid local government sector aside in all beneficiary countries to support and has a lot to offer in helping build strong Relevance of EEA and Norway Grants 2014-2021 to KS’ long-term strategy………………...... networking and foster project partnerships and stable local democracies in partnership on initiatives of mutual interest. The local government associations in other financial mechanisms are organised around countries. KS International Projects have programmes, with pre-defined projects and NMFA-funded projects in several European open calls under each programme. For more states outside the EU. see www.eeagrants.org.

4 Preamble

Many programmes and projects Roma inclusion” programmes in funded by EEA and Norway Grants Romania and Bulgaria. We are in the 2009-2014 were finalised in the past loop for partnering in programmes in year. KS contributed as donor other counties and stand ready in due programme partner to five of those course to become project partners in programmes and to a great many selected pre-defined projects relevant projects from which Norwegian local to local governments. New international governments have been able to draw opportunities for our members to share significant knowledge and new and to learn will open up. competencies. Moreover, our member municipalities have gained valuable Municipalities play a vital role in experience from participating in securing safety, dignity and freedom capacity-building activities with for all citizens in Norway. They play a associations or local governments in key role in implementing many national other member states of the Council of policies. The delivery of services by Europe. local bodies controlled by elected as good practice worth studying in order reduce emissions and limit the impact of institutions in good co-ordination to enhance sustainable development in climate change, and thus contribute to 2016 marked the beginning of a with other tiers of government has other countries on several occasions in meeting the Sustainable Development new EEA and Norway Grants period proven to be an effective, efficient and 2016. Goals’ environmental targets. (2014-2021), with the EU and donors sustainable model for prosperity. (Iceland, Liechtenstein and Norway) The Norwegian local government Nationally, KS is working to strengthen KS wants local governments to play in agreeing to allocate to €2.8 billion system therefore provides examples social inclusion. Education and their role in the new International to reducing economic and social of good practice which are relevant knowledge is a key part of preventing Development Agenda 2030. We there- disparities in Europe as well as to and useful to share as part of Norway’s exclusion. Local governments, being fore contribute to building capacity strengthening co-operation with 15 international engagement for sustain- inclusive democratic institutions close for them to better provide quality EU countries in Central and Southern able development. to and mandated by citizens, can services and be accountable for their Europe and the Baltics. Negotiations provide an excellent opportunity to actions. Access to experiences and towards Memoranda of Understanding In the past year, KS actively advocated offer inclusive education and other good practices from other countries with beneficiary states opened from for a stronger role for local government services which will prevent future is helpful. KS is proud to contribute June 2016. Priority sectors and in efforts to achieve the Sustainable exclusion, thus also preventing future to the international development programme areas were agreed after Development Goals. Goal 17 calls increases in social benefit costs. agenda for the benefit of Norwegian extensive consultations in September for stronger partnerships between local governments and their counter- 2016. Romania concluded the first different stakeholders. KS promotes In the Paris Accord on Climate Change parts in other countries and for better beneficiary negotiations and signed its co-operation between different tiers of concluded in 2015, local governments and more easily assessable inclusive agreement in October 2016. government. We represent Norway’s were recognised for their role in both services to citizens around the globe. local governments in formalised the prevention of and adaptation to KS has already been selected as donor consultation with the Norwegian climate change. Local governments in Gunn Marit Helgesen programme partner for “local develop- government. This well-established their function as planners and societal President of KS ment, poverty reduction and enhanced consultation system was put forward developers can help to significantly

6 7 Projects Overview 2016

Country Project Partners Funding to KS Country Project Partners Funding to KS

Bulgaria Donor Programme Partner for the programme Technical Assistance Directorate, the Norway Grants Lithuania Pre-defined project for sustainable energy and Association of Local Authorities in Norway Grants Capacity-Building and Institutional Co-operation Council of Ministers of the Republic environmental quality management in local Lithuania between Bulgarian and Norwegian Public of Bulgaria €30 000 for 2016 governments €28 000 for 2016 Institutions, Local and Regional Authorities

Bulgaria Strengthening the Capacity of the National Asso- The National Association of Bulgarian Norway Grants Moldova Effective, Consultative and Devolved Governance Congress of Local Governments of NMFA ciation of Bulgarian Municipalities and Bulgarian Municipalities and Regions - NAMRB in Moldova Moldova Municipalities through Co-operation with Norwe- €185 000 for 2009- €190 000 for 2016 gian Local Authorities 2014/16 Building competences for inter-municipal and Association of Polish Cities in co- EEA Grants Estonia Donor Programme Partner for Children and Youth Estonian Ministry of Education and EEA Grants inter-sectorial co-operation as tools for local and operation with the Association of at Risk Research, in co-operation with the regional development Polish Counties and the Union of Rural €230 000 for 2009 – Ministry of Social Affairs and the €22 000 for 2016 Communes of the Republic of Poland 2014/16 Ministry of Justice Poland Polish-Norwegian co-operation platform for Association of Polish Cities in co- EEA Grants Georgia Quality products and services to NALAG members National Association of Local Authori- NMFA climate and energy conservation operation with the Polish Network of ties of Georgia Energy Cities €86 000 for €200 000 for 2016 2016-1017

Hungary Donor Programme Partner for the programme The Prime Ministers’ Office Norway Grants Portugal Sexual and moral harassment at the work place Commission for Equality in Labour EEA Grants Capacity-Building and Institutional Co-operation and Employment and seven other between Hungarian and Norwegian Public €70 000 for 2016 Portuguese institutions €130 000 for Institutions, Local and Regional Authorities 2009 – 2014/16

Hungary Capacity Building and Institutional Co-operation The Hungarian National Association of Norway Grants Romania A Green Way to Sustainable Development The Environmental Protection Agency EEA Grants between Hungarian and Norwegian Local Local Authorities - TÖOSZ Sibiu Authorities €178 000 for 2009 – €587 000 for 2014/16 2009 – 2014/17

Latvia Donor Programme Partner for the programme Ministry for Environmental Protection Norway Grants Russia Presidential Programme: Internships for The Presidential Academy for National NMFA Capacity-Building and Institutional Co-operation and Regional Development in Latvia Norwegian and Russian public employees Economy and Public Administration, between Latvian and Norwegian Public Institu- €33 000 for 2016 North-West Institute, Saint Petersburg €566 000 for 2014 - tions, Local and Regional Authorities 2017

Latvia Smart governance and performance improvement Latvian Association of Local and Norway Grants Ukraine Efficiency Networks, with an applied research Norwegian Institute for Urban and NMFA of Latvian municipalities Regional Governments (LALRG) and component and a Local Democracy Survey (2015 Regional Research (NIBR) and State Regional Development Agency €285 000 for 2009 – – 2018) Association of Ukrainian Cities (AUC) €1 400 000 for 2015 in Latvia 2014/16 – 2018

Lithuania Donor Programme Partner for the programme Ministry of the Interior of the Republic Norway Grants Capacity-Building and Institutional Co-operation of Lithuania between Lithuanian and Norwegian Public €42 000 for 2016 Institutions, Local and Regional Authorities * * EEA and Norway Grants 2009-2014 with implementation until 2017

8 9 PART 1: Review 2016 Polish-Norwegian Co-operation Platform for Climate and Energy Efficiency

In an EEA and Norway Grants The Polish municipalities visited Norway in 2009- 2014 co-operation project September 2016. In , the group between KS, the Association of was briefed on the urban transformation Polish Cities (APC) and the Network the city has gone through over recent of Polish “Energie Cités” (PNEC) ten years and visited the municipal waste Polish municipalities - Bielsko-Biala, management company Lindum, which has Bydgoszcz, Lublin, Milanówek, state of the art facilities including for the Pałecznica, Plońsk, Rumia, production of biogas. Raciechowice, Sopot and Sztum - received funding to develop climate The group in Bærum was introduced to and energy efficiency concepts in urban development with business facilities urban development, building and housing estates at ’s disused old renovation, district heating, educa- airport of Fornebu and visited a retrofitted tion and increased use of renewable office building which now produces more energy. energy than it uses (Power House Kjørbo).

11 Lithuania: Local action for better air quality and sustainable energy solutions

The Association of Local Authorities in efforts, energy efficiency in buildings, Lithuania (ALAL) collaborated with KS energy recovery from waste, electrifi- on a Norway Grants pre-defined project cation of harbour facilities and ships at to strengthen Lithuanian municipalities’ port and more. ability to better contribute to the implementation of Lithuanian law on Inspiration from these five visits to air pollution and energy. In particular, Norway were discussed in three this effort focused on increasing the follow-up seminars gathering a total of The group was taken to ESVAL Two webinars for Norwegian and capacity of local government to 150 municipal technicians in Kleipida, environmental park in , Polish energy experts were organised promote sustainable energy solutions Kaunas and Vilnius to discuss issues which recycles different fractions of and a final project conference is and improved air quality at the local of energy mix, energy efficiency in municipal and business waste, as well scheduled for April 2017. level. buildings as well as actions to reduce as to a district heating plant producing local air pollution. Based on new energy from many different renewable Following a kick-off conference in knowledge and improved capacities, sources ( Energi). The Eco Vilnius in June 2015, during which seven municipalities drafted new More information is available on the Lighthouse Certification Scheme was project web page: http://www.pnec.org. Municipality’s Climate Action energy plans with some external assis- presented, giving the group insight into pl/en/dzialalnosc/projektycat/5-projekty- Plan was studied, five groups totaling tance. Five municipalities prepared air a certification system for climate and obecnie-realizowane/459-polsko-norweska- 75 Lithuanian municipal leaders and quality improvement plans. These pilot environment-friendly buildings. platforma-wspolpracy-dla-poszanowania- local politicians in 2016 visited Oslo, initiatives served as the basis for new energii-i-klimatu Bærum, , , Ullen- guidelines from ALAL to members on Partnerships between Polish saker, Bergen, Os and Fjell Munici- how to strengthen the implementation municipalities and GLØR Waste palities as well as Hordaland County of national energy and air pollution Treatment Facility (Green Business Council to study how Norwegian local legislation at the local level. Norway), Dalane and Bryne Upper governments work with these issues. Secondary Schools (Rogaland County The groups were given insight into Project activities were closed during Council) as well as , , systems for measuring local air pollu- an experience wrap-up event for 80 , Nes, Oslo and Drammen tion, how spatial planning initiatives are participants, where the Norwegian municipalities will be continued in a trying to minimise pollution emissions Institute of Air Research (NILU) new exchange of practice planned for from traffic, integration of public health presented the Norwegian national air March 2017. initiatives with pollution reduction quality measurement set-up.

12 13 Local self-governance in Georgia

Since the establishment of its current development measures. Municipalities support network throughout Georgia Following this kick-off seminar, the local self-government system in will in the future take a stronger role in was established in early 2016 to group of experts surveyed issues of 2004, Georgia has made progress in regional development. identify needs, analyse the current concern to NALAG members, analysed strengthening local democracy and situation and offer a new performance this data and reported back at a new improving services to citizens. Also, Before going forward, it is, however, management model. This group met seminar in September 2016, where the country’s only local government necessary to better monitor the per- in a first seminar in April to discuss the case of performance improve- association NALAG (the National formance of municipalities. As part of approach and listen to Norwegian best ment in the Norwegian municipality of Association of Local Authorities of its co-operation programme with KS, practice cases covering Norwegian Vestre Toten also was studied. Based Georgia) has become a respected covering 2015-2018 and with funding local governments’ role in social and on conclusions from the preparatory voice of local government and an from the Norwegian Ministry of Foreign economic development, as well as work, NALAG has selected a perfor- appreciated provider of support to Affairs, NALAG therefore has launched performance assessment and im- mance-based management model its members. Further devolution of a process to select, develop and im- provement in Norwegian municipalities which will be offered to all members powers is being considered in Georgia plement enhanced performance man- covering the local government to state from 2017, once tested and fully de- in order to enhance services to citizens agement in Georgian municipalities. reporting system KOSTRA, user lead veloped. and to counter the strong centralisa- performance improvement techniques, tion tendency the country now sees A group of 12 experts composed of 4 KS’ various tools offered to members through implementing new regional academics and 8 members of NALAG’s and LEAN methodology.

14 15 “It has been a very interesting visit. I have learned a lot about the tourist industry in and I will bring many ideas home to Monchegorsk.” Maria Karimova Public sector mutual exchange programme between Norway and Russia

The Presidential Programme, which In the spring of 2016, 11 civil serv- was started in 2000, allows for the ants from different parts of Norway exchange of civil servants between embarked on their trip to Russia, first Norway and Russia and is managed spending several days in St. Petersburg great satisfaction with their intern- and local elections held in Russia a by KS in partnership with the North- to prepare for their internships, before ships in 2016, which had given them few weeks prior. Here, academics West Institute of Management of the traveling to the site of their internships a variety of interesting and educa- from Norway and from Russia, as well Presidential Academy of National to spend a week at their host institu- tional experiences in the context of as an election observer from NOR- Economy and Public Administration tion. The return leg of the exchange another culture. Maria Karimova from DEM presented their views and took in St. Petersburg. Within the scope of took place in October, when 14 Russian Monchigorsk, who stayed in Sortland questions from the public. In 2017, the the programme, the participating civil civil servants from cities such as St. municipality, expressed her opinion thematic conference will be organized servants complete an internship period Petersburg, Moscow, Murmansk, of the experience in an interview with by the Russian North-West Institute (1.5 weeks for in Russia, Arkhangelsk, Pskov and Novgorod the local online newspaper Vesterålen of Management in St. Petersburg at 3 weeks for in Norway) with came to Norway for three weeks. They Online: the end of the stay of the Norwegian one or more relevant institutions in first spent a week in Oslo following a participants sometime in the spring. the other country, thereby increasing general programme prepared by KS, “It has been a very interesting visit. their understanding and knowledge of before heading off to their respec- I have learned a lot about the tourist The Presidential Programme is organ- the institutions and working methods tive internships in different parts of industry in Northern Norway and I will ized on an annual basis and is open to across the border. It is hoped that the Norway, many of them visiting county bring many ideas home to anyone working in the public sector in interaction will, in turn, encourage in- governor offices, county councils and Monchegorsk.” Norway or in Russia. creased co-operation and contact and municipalities in Finnmark, Troms, possibly engender new cross-border Nordland, Trøndelag, Hordaland and The internship period in Norway was For more information about the possibility project opportunities, something that Telemark. concluded by a thematic conference to participate in the programme, please get in touch by sending an e-mail to christian. is much needed in the current era of on the topic of political engagement [email protected]. fraught relations between Russia and The vast majority of participants from in contemporary Russia, a theme that the West. both Norway and Russia expressed was inspired by the parliamentary

16 17 Capacity Building and institutional co-operation with Hungary

KS has been Donor Programme Several Norwegian municipalities Partner in Hungary for the programme were active in this project; Oppegård Capacity Building and Institutional and Øvre were hosts and shared Co-operation with Norwegian Public experiences on elderly care. There Institutions, Local and Regional were study trips to Hamar, Elverum Authorities. Several projects have and Tolga with a focus on local been implemented, and the total grant development, Trysil on energy efficiency was €10.8 million. The objective is and renewable energy, and and strengthened institutional capacity on municipal reform. and human resource development in public institutions, and local and The programme had several other regional authorities. This is achieved Norwegian project partners ensuring through co-operation and transfer of bilateral exchanges. There were three knowledge with similar institutions in predefined projects with the Directorate Norway. for Cultural Heritage, the Norwegian Directorate for Civil Protection (DSB) KS has also been partner in a success- and the Norwegian Water Resources ful project for capacity building in and Energy Directorate as the the municipal sector, together with Norwegian partners. our sister association TÖOSZ. The project “Capacity-building in munici- Eight smaller projects with Norwegian palities through Norwegian-Hungarian project partners received funding. The co-operation”, aimed to increase the municipalities of Elverum and Stor- knowledge and professionalism of Elvdal co-operated on a project on local governments, share experiences energy efficiency, Øvre Eiker on elderly and examples between Hungarian and care, and Rissa on vocational training Norwegian local governments and for handicrafts. Lillehammer University public institutions, and support local College, the Norwegian Agency for democracy through capacity-building Lifelong Learning and SINTEF also of local governments associations in participated in projects. Hungary with support from KS.

18 19 “We see that the most integral result of the programme is the change in mindset towards a more co-operative, open, willing to learn and accountable one, especially at the local expert level.” Mr. Sandis Cakuls

Successful local self-governance capacity building in Latvia

KS has been Donor Programme We interviewed Mr. Sandis Cakuls, Partner in the programme “Capacity- Deputy State Secretary of the Ministry What are the main results of the their own specific advantages and Building and Institutional Co-operation of Environmental Protection and programme and pre-defined select their own methods to improve between Latvian and Norwegian Regional Development about the projects? living standards via taking over the Public Institutions, Local and Regional outcome of the project: Benchlearning system from Norway Authorities. The objective has been The programme contributed to profes- and Poland. strengthened institutional capacity and Why was it important for Latvia to sional growth of local, regional and human resource development in public have this program? state development planning experts. What achievement are you most institutions, local and regional authorities Positive change can take place only if proud of? in the beneficiary states within the The programme is unique for Latvia as there are experts who see the devel- agreed priority sectors, through co- for the first time all governance levels opment potentials of their specific We see that the most integral result operation and transfer of knowledge involved in regional development have territories and are willing to grow, learn of the programme is the change in with similar institutions in Norway. been gathered to raise cross-level and contribute to fulfilment of develop- mindset towards a more co-operative, knowledge and competences for ment visions open, willing to learn and accountable The programme has included several better co-operation in policy planning one, especially at the local expert areas of capacity-building, such as and implementation processes. In In addition, the programme strengthened level. It is important to communi- marketing strategies, health, education close co-operation with our Norwegian investment attraction abilities at the cate both to institutions as well as to and housing. Networking and knowl- colleagues we had a chance to pilot local level, especially in the least- society that creative, motivated and edge transfer among municipalities practical hands-on experience sharing developed region of Latvia – Latgale. development-focused professionals, has been the main focus of the capac- and establish a fundamental basis for It also supported 30 new entrepreneurs who learn and apply new methods in ity-building. With help from Norwegian regional development in Latvia for the in starting their businesses and fulfilling development planning, are of a great experiences, a municipal database has upcoming years. their innovative business ideas, it value for a faster and more balanced also been developed with success. encouraged local governments to seek development in Latvia.

20 21 “Again and again we have come to the conclusion that before coming up with new untested solutions it is crucial to take a look around and explore if somebody already has experience dealing with the same problem or challenge.”

Mr. Sandis Cakuls, Deputy State Secretary of the Ministry of Environmental Protection and Regional Development

One of the milestones of our programme rience exchange and transfer of best was taking over and adapting the practices, expertise and knowledge. Benchlearning system to Latvian Why is it important to have a Norwe- be adjusted to specific conditions of conditions. KS provided Latvian partners Partners followed the programme gian partner? the country, gradually raising the level with consultations on Norwegian implementation closely and played of inhabitants’ well-being in Latvian Benchlearning methodology (efficiency a major role in enhancing bilateral Again and again we have come to the regions. networks) and supported Latvian local relations both among institutions and conclusion that before coming up with governments in their efforts introducing people, supporting the establishment new untested solutions it is crucial International co-operation, experience the Benchlearning system in Latvia. of strategic partnerships. Additionally, to take a look around and explore if exchange and knowledge transfer is the programme has broadened its somebody already has experience one of the main pre-conditions for an What are the contributions of the scope of addressed issues thanks to dealing with the same problem or chal- effective and purposeful capacity- Norwegian partners? the Partners who initiated organising lenge. Very often it is more efficient to building in a world where joint goals experience exchange events on the learn from other experiences, take over and challenges play an increasingly Active involvement of Norwegian project issue which almost every country in practices and adapt to local particu- important role. Taking that into and programme partners, especially KS, Europe was affected by in 2016 – larities. Regardless of economic account, part of the efforts of the was appreciated at each programme the migration crisis. The knowledge indicators or geographical differences, programme was aimed at establishing implementation phase, starting with the gained as a result of the events has people living both in Latvia and in strategic partnerships between Latvian idea about the programme and contin- been and will continue to be used Norway are pretty much similar, with and Norwegian institutions. uing with its preparation and implemen- among Latvian experts. Norwegian similar human needs. The Partners’ tation. The Partners took a very active expertise will also be used in devel- contribution was in ensuring transfer part in each project – institutions from oping the Regional Policy Guidelines of approved and working methods Norway were the main actors of expe- for 2020 – 2026. for comparable challenges which can

22 23 Ukraine’s future stability and local government

When President Poroshenko held current fragmented network of villages operative effort by the Association of established: one for healthcare, one his inaugural speech as the newly and settlements. As a consequence of Ukrainian Cities (AUC), KS and the for education, and one for social elected president in summer of this reform, the total number of local Norwegian Institute of Urban and services for people with disabilities. 2014, he emphasised increased governments at the community-level is Regional Research (NIBR), and is The aim of the efficiency networks local autonomy and decentralisation expected to fall from 11 000 to 1 500. financed by the Norwegian Ministry of was to use the information from as one of the main priorities of his Foreign Affairs. the customer satisfaction surveys administration. As a part of this effort, It is in this context that KS is to develop local solutions to some Ukrainian local communities are also coordinating a project that focuses In the course of 2016, the project of the main challenges within each undergoing a consolidation reform. on capacity-building for Ukrainian partners conducted customer sector. From March to December, the Most oblast councils have approved local governments in service provision satisfaction surveys within three municipalities of each network met plans for community amalgamation, and evidence-based policy dialogue, different sectors of municipal services on four occasions to develop their thereby making themselves ready for as well as the strengthening of local in a number of Ukrainian cities. On individual improvement plans, which a process that aims to establish viable democracy and citizen participation. the basis of these surveys, three were presented at the fourth and self-governance units instead of the The project is implemented as a co- separate efficiency networks were final network meeting in December.

24 25 “When President Poroshenko held his inaugural speech as the newly- elected president in summer of 2014, he emphasised increased local autonomy and decentralisation as one of the main priorities of his administration.”

The delegates from the different government to successfully tackle the • using efficiency networks to increase municipalities showed considerable duties and responsibilities imposed on the quality of services by building enthusiasm for the interactive working them the local government reform. the capacity and competence of method promoted by the efficiency local governments and enabling local “They worked hard networks, which for many was a new Beyond these councilor trainings, KS authorities to make decisions based to come up with approach to problem-solving. They will build on the results achieved in on evidence through focus groups and worked hard to come up with their 2016 by continuing its co-operation surveys their respective respective improvement plans,and with AUC and NIBR on the following improvement plans...” in 2017 a follow-up meeting will activities: • conducting a nationwide local be held to see how successful democracy survey and using efficiency the municipalities have been in • furthering an evidence-based policy networks to enhance local democracy implementing them. dialogue between AUC and the in newly amalgamated communities central government with regards to Among the activities of 2016 was the situation of the local government also a training session for the trainers sector in Ukraine and the ongoing who will help elected councilors of reforms newly created amalgamated local

27 to Norway, a comparative study on • Norwegian trade unions and social dialogue mechanisms and employers´ organizations have Decent Work and Tripartite Dialogue in EEA practices in public administration extensive international co-operation and Norway Grants 2014-2021 in Romania and Norway, and a experience and are an asset in curriculum for training of civil promoting bilateral relations. servants was developed. Hence, in the next period, KS and The EEA and Norway Grants 2009- is the second-largest employers’ asso- The work was also evaluated by NUMGE will include participants from 2014 included a Fund for Decent Work ciation and the largest one in the public Nordic Consulting Group, and the other Norwegian organisations and and Tripartite Dialogue (DWTD). The sector, and NUMGE is Norway’s largest findings were published in January institutions when relevant. This should objective was to promote the decent trade union for municipal employees. 2016. The evaluation showed the mainly be Norwegian municipalities, work agenda and foster tripartite impact of Decent Work and Tripartite but also the National Institute for dialogue. By improving this dialogue Three of the projects focused on Dialogue projects in beneficiary states: Occupational Health (STAMI), and the the social partners in each country will improving social and tripartite dialogue, National Labour Inspection Authority better contribute to a more sustainable and the remaining four on threats and • The DWTD has in some cases and other relevant stakeholders, such economic and social development. violence at the workplace, also known provided a first ever opportunity as Norwegian Ministries and Directo- as third-party violence. All projects for social partners to meet directly rates. The Global Fund for Decent Work and ended in December 2014, and the and communicate on social Tripartite Dialogue will be continued evaluation of the projects we were dialogue and working conditions, During the former project period in the EEA and Norway Grants period involved in was very positive. Among even in some cases directly (2012-2014), KS and NUMGE co-or- 2014-21. the results were: resolving common challenges. dinated the projects through meet- • Trade unions, employers and ings organised by the two European KS has a long history in participating • Improved social dialogue through governments in the beneficiary umbrella organisations, the Council of with projects related to decent work bottom-up processes in Poland. countries are generally very European Municipalities and Regions and tripartite dialogue. In 2009-2014, The project brought new insight to receptive to assistance on decent (CEMR) and the European Federation KS was project partner in 7 projects in Polish municipalities on the subject work and social dialogue, and of Public Service Unions (EPSU). This the beneficiary states, in co-operation of social dialogue value in the DWTD project promoters have co-ordination will continue in the next with the Norwegian Union for Munici- workplace. been very enthusiastic about period in order to ensure the sustain- pal and General Employees (NUMGE). • Opening the path towards an elements of the Nordic Model, ability of results and networks, as well Projects were implemented in projects effective implementation of a social especially openness, trust and as to strengthen the European Social in the Czech Republic, Estonia, Lithua- dialogue mechanism in Romania. direct co-operation between dialogue institutions. nia, Hungary, Poland and Romania. KS The project included a study visit Norwegian social partners.

28 29 PART 2: General outlook and EEA and Norway Grants 2014-21 KS advocacy and involvement in international policy formulation

KS, through membership in pan- Euro- reference in Norway’s voluntary pean organisations and as a member reporting on the implementation of the of the international local government Sustainable Development Goals from community, has advocated for the June 2016, stating that “the Govern- inclusion of local governments as an ment will also make use of existing important stakeholder in formulation of mechanisms for co-operation with the New International Development local and regional authorities.” Agenda towards 2030, as well as delivery of the Sustainable Development The existing consultation mechanism Goals. It was therefore natural to engage mentioned in the above reference was in a dialogue with the Norwegian otherwise selected as a best practice Government on how Norway will example in a UCLG policy brief on deliver the Sustainable Development Development Effectiveness and Local Goals. Our effort was rewarded with a Governments.

31 In 2017, the Norwegian Government under “Programme area n° 16 – Good will present a White Paper to Parliament Governance, Accountable Institutions, on how the Sustainable Development Transparency”,, where comments from Goals can better be met through KS resulted in the reformulation of Norwegian development aid. KS took parts of the draft text under “capacity part in consultations during the drafting building” to read “competence and process of the White Paper and used skills development within all levels of the occasion to further emphasize the public administration” need to recognize local governments as relevant stakeholders and a useful resource for programmes and initiatives that promote sustainable development. Links to policy documents: http://eeagrants.org/layout/set/bluebook 2016 saw the conclusion of a new agreement on the continuation of the http://www.cib-uclg.org/news/new-cib-poli- EEA and Norway Grants 2014-2021 to cy-brief-development-effectiveness-and-lo- cal-governments reduce social and economic disparities in Europe and strengthen relations https://www.regjeringen.no/globalassets/ between the three EEA countries departementene/ud/vedlegg/utvikling/ and the 15 eligible EU beneficiary sdg_rapport_ny2.pdf states. During open consultations on priority sectors and programme areas, KS advocated actively to better include the relevance and role of local governments. Our comments led to several improvements; in particular

33 INNOVATION, RESEARCH, EDUCATION employment will be particularly AND COMPETITIVENESS important over the next year. We will, Relevance of EEA and Norway Grants 2014- moreover, focus on developing 2021 to KS’ long-term strategy This programme area has several inclusive employment for a multicultural objectives which will support sustainable work force. KS works strategically to growth through linking knowledge, renew services and practices offered by education and training with labour municipalities. The EU Commission and the donor advice in selected programmes during market requirements. Combating states Iceland, Liechtenstein and EEA and Norway Grants 2014-2021 youth unemployment, promoting KS as Donor Project Partner has in the Norway reached agreement on EEA and has already been invited in as a gender equality and promoting social past taken part in EEA grants projects and Norway Grants 2014-2021 in Donor Programme Partner in local dialogue are important issues. Decent Work and Tripartite Dialogue as 2016. Country specific negotiation development and poverty alleviation well as on Work-Life Balance. on programme content is currently programmes in Romania and Bulgaria. Programme areas measures include underway. Romania was the first business development, innovation country to reach agreement with EEA and Norway Grants 2014-2021 and SMEs, research, education, SOCIAL INCLUSION, YOUTH donors in October 2016. KS served are divided into five sectors covering scholarships, apprenticeships and EMPLOYMENT AND POVERTY as Donor Programme Partner during a total of 23 programme areas, in line youth entrepreneurship, work-life REDUCTION EEA and Norway Grants 2009-2014 in with EU priorities for responding to the balance as well as social dialogue and Estonia, Bulgaria, Hungary, Latvia and challenges facing Europe. decent work. Equal opportunities and the empow- Lithuania, providing strategic advice erment of vulnerable groups are key on the conception of programmes, on The chosen sectors – innovation, KS, also an employer organisation, is a to EEA and Norway Grants 2014-2021 programme management and assisting social inclusion, environment, culture, relevant partner and actor on Norwe- and can be reached through inclusive in identifying bilateral opportunities. and justice – correspond well to KS’ gian employment issues. Reduced economic growth, social inclusion of KS will continue to provide such long term plan 2016-2019 absenteeism and expanding full time vulnerable groups as well as expanded

34 35 Participation in Environmental Impact KS’ has past relevant experience from Assessment Processes and Polish- EEA and Norway Grants participation Norwegian Co-operation Platform for in projects on Smart Governance and Climate and Energy Efficiency. Performance Improvement, Creative Governance as well as Competences for Inter-Municipal and Inter-Sectorial CULTURE, CIVIL SOCIETY, GOOD Co-operation as Tools for Local and GOVERNANCE, AND FUNDAMENTAL Regional Development. RIGHTS AND FREEDOMS

A vibrant civil society and active JUSTICE AND HOME AFFAIRS citizenship are pillars of an inclusive democracy. Under this sector, EEA Citizens’ trust in the government rests and Norway Grants 2014-2021 seeks on civil rights, equal treatment and access to education and employment. Norway Grants 2014-2021, and pro- to strengthen cultural dialogue and protection. Trust can break down due Important measures include the Euro- gramme areas include environment and awareness of diversity. Fundamental to corruption, poor administrative pro- pean public health challenges, Roma ecosystems, renewable energy, energy rights and democratic freedoms are, cedures and incapacity in protecting inclusion and empowerment, children efficiency, energy security and climate moreover, vital for assuring rule of law citizens from everything from gen- and youth at risk, youth participation change mitigation and adaptation. and active citizenship. der-based violence to repeated natural in the labour market as well as local disasters. Under EEA and Norway development and poverty reduction. KS’ work plan 2016-2019 focuses on Programme measures include cultural Grants 2014-2021, partners will work the challenge to secure a balanced entrepreneurship, cultural heritage to retain public trust in institutions and Over the coming years, KS will and sustainable development that is and cultural co-operation, civil society, reduce risk to life and property. co-operate with the Norwegian adapted to regional and local realities. good governance, accountable institu- Government to promote mental health This requires that Norwegian regional tions, transparency and human rights. The programme areas include meas- for children and youth and to better and local authorities take a lead in ures in asylum and migration, correc- articulate labour, education and training. sustainable societal development. KS Norwegian local democracy is func- tional services and pre-trial detention, works with members for the transition tioning well, but could and should be international police co-operation KS has EEA and Norway Grants towards a low carbon society. improved. The elected institutions and combating crime, effectiveness experience as Donor Programme have a special role as decision-making and efficiency of the judicial system, Partner in programmes for Capacity- KS seeks to enhance knowledge, authorities; they are committed to the strengthening rule of law, domestic Building and Institutional Co-operation capacity and funding to deal with the people through elections and must be and gender-based violence, disaster between Public Institutions, Local and consequences of climate change and held accountable. The elected officials prevention and preparedness. Regional Authorities as well as for climate change adaptation. Local must apply active leadership and en- Children and Youth at Risk. government planning capacity and sure that the citizens are seen, heard KS will, over the coming years, work competence must be strengthened for and given responsibility and trust. for optimal conditions for and good a more sustainable local environment. co-operation with the government to ENVIRONMENT, ENERGY, CLIMATE KS’ long term plan 2016-2019 empha- quickly integrate refugees into work or CHANGE AND LOW CARBON ECONOMY KS’ past EEA and Norway Grants sises inclusion of vulnerable groups education experience with transition towards a such as young people, long term The EU has a comprehensive and ac- low carbon society includes projects welfare beneficiaries and newly-arrived KS has previously advised EEA and tive environment and climate agenda. such as A Green Way to Sustainable refugees. Norway Grants beneficiary states on This sector is a priority in EEA and Development, Local and Public asylum and integration processes.

36 37 Elita Cakule Director, KS International Projects [email protected]

Bjørn Rongevær Senior Advisor, KS International Projects [email protected]

Gunnbjørg Nåvik Senior Advisor, KS International Projects [email protected]

Christian Larsen Advisor, KS International Projects [email protected]

Web KS’ International Projects: http://www.ks.no/fagomrader/samfunn-og-demokrati/internasjonalt-sa- marbeid/prosjekter/

Visiting address: Haakon VIIs gate 9, 0161 Oslo Postal address: P.O. Box 1378, Vika, 0114 Oslo Telephone: +47 24 13 26 00 E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.ks.no

ISBN: 978-82-93100-11-9

Graphic design: www.ringseth.com Visiting address: Haakon VIIs gate 9, 0161 Oslo Postal address: P.O. Box 1378, Vika, 0114 Oslo

Telephone: +47 24 13 26 00 E-mail: [email protected] Web: www.ks.no

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