Transparency and accountability facilitate the work of local governments and strengthen citizens’ trust in them, hence, making it essential to continuously enhance these aspects. This was concluded following a two-day training session organized by the Centre for Civic Education (CCE), on 10 and 11 October in Perast, attended by 17 representatives of local governments from the Southern part of Montenegro.
The participants had the opportunity to enhance their knowledge of the legal framework for free access to information and its implementation, with a focus on the proactive information disclosure and efficient handling of requests. The training covered both basic and advanced aspects of legal procedures, including the application of best practices in this area. Additionally, through interactive lectures, participants acquired practical skills for properly handling requests for free access to information, relying on examples from the Agency for Personal Data Protection (AZLP) and the Administrative Court that were presented to them. Moreover, the training addressed the harm test and overriding public interest, which are crucial for balancing public interest and personal data protection.
“The training was extremely useful, as it covered many key aspects for professional development and better workplace organization. The instructors provided concrete advice, tools, and techniques on how to improve productivity and the effective execution of tasks related to free access to information procedures. The practical examples and workshops allowed us to apply theoretical knowledge to real-life situations, which is an added value,” said Staka Kovač, Coordinator for Human Resources at the Municipality of Herceg Novi, highlighting the importance of networking and exchanging experiences with colleagues from other local governments. “It is also worth noting that the setting of the training contributed to a pleasant and inspiring working atmosphere for gaining new knowledge and experiences,” she concluded.
“Increasing awareness of the importance of transparency and information accessibility, as well as providing practical knowledge, is essential for the effective use of the Free Access to Information Law. We learned the basics of the legal framework related to free access to information, but also exchanged experiences and examples of good practice. This has enhanced our knowledge of free access to information, helped us establish new connections, and gain valuable experiences, thus achieving the goals of such programmes,” commented Damir Raščić, Manager of the Municipality of Ulcinj.
This training is part of the project “Transparent Bodies – Informed Citizens,” which the CCE is implementing with the financial support of the Ministry of Public Administration. The project aimed to include 50 representatives of local governments from across Montenegro through a series of three training sessions. In the end, 54 participants from various municipalities completed the programme.
Itana Gogić, Project Assistant