Voluntary Amalgamation in Practice: Moldova Learning from Estonia's Experience
We are delighted to share the experience of a Study Visit to Estonia. From July 22 to 26, 2024, a group of 16 participants, including mayors from rural communities in the North, Central, and South of Moldova, officials from the State Chancellery, and the team of the Mă Implic Project, explored Estonia’s voluntary amalgamation process and its positive impact on municipal development. We had the opportunity to visit key central public administration institutions, such as the Ministry of Regional Affairs and Agriculture and the Association of Cities and Municipalities. We also visited local public administration institutions in rural municipalities: Rakvere, Viru Nigula, Saue, Pärnu, Viljandi, Elva, and Jõgeva.
We covered essential reform topics including:
- The process of amalgamation of local institutions;
- Optimizing services for citizens and integrating digital solutions;
- Improving post-amalgamation quality of life;
- Successful economic development initiatives;
- Efficient communication of the amalgamation process with citizens and between LPAs.
The goal of this visit was to provide participants with valuable insights into the success of Estonia’s voluntary amalgamation process. Participants had the opportunity to learn directly from local experts and observe the practical application of reforms, discussing the benefits and challenges encountered.
This visit was organized with the support of the Swiss Government, at the request of the State Chancellery of the Republic of Moldova. The MĂ IMPLIC Project team is making continuous efforts, particularly in support of the voluntary amalgamation initiative launched by the Government of the Republic of Moldova. Organizing these series of study visits is a crucial activity for achieving the objectives of the MĂ IMPLIC Project, which aims for the government to promote and coordinate local public administration reform efficiently, effectively, and transparently.
A second visit is planned for this autumn, with the list of participants to be finalized by the State Chancellery.
We extend our thanks to all participants for their dedication and enthusiasm, as well as to our partners for their hospitality. We appreciate the efforts of our Estonian hosts and the support provided in organizing this study visit.
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We remind you that 14 groups of LPAs from Moldova will benefit from stronger local governance and increased access to quality public services, thanks to the support of the Project MĂ IMPLIC, funded by the Government of Switzerland and implemented by Skat Consulting. The project “MĂ IMPLIC” in Phase 2 aims to contribute to strengthening local governance and increasing the population’s access to better public services. The project will provide support to local authorities and citizens to improve local administration, strategic planning, and public service delivery. This initiative will bring benefits to approximately 106,000 citizens in these communities.
#MaImplicProject #SkatConsulting #SwissCooperation #Switzerland
#MAIMPLIC #LocalDevelopment #PublicServices #EfficientAdministration
