Kosovo has made progress in several areas of economic governance and public sector modernization, particularly in digitalization, tax administration, and alignment with EU fiscal and regulatory frameworks. Reforms linked to the EU Growth Plan and Kosovo’s Reform Agenda have provided a clearer strategic direction for institutional development and economic convergence with the EU. The next phase, she notes, is about delivery, making sure institutions have the capacity and coordination needed to turn reform plans into everyday practice.

This is where the CEF supports Kosovo. Working with ministries, central banks, tax administrations, and audit institutions, CEF focuses on practical implementation. This includes support in reform costing, fiscal impact analysis, auditing, and monitoring, often through targeted workshops and regional cooperation.

But at the core of all reforms, she emphasizes, are always people: “Reforms are implemented by people, rather than systems alone. Without skilled and motivated professionals, even the best‑designed reforms cannot succeed.”

Learning from peers in the region is particularly important. By drawing on the experience of countries already further along the EU path, Kosovo can build reforms on tested approaches rather than starting from scratch. At the same time, stronger accounting and auditing, backed by better internal controls and a gradual move toward accrual accounting, strengthens transparency and credibility - an essential step on the EU path.

With continued investment in people, leadership, and consistent implementation, Kosovo has the foundations needed to advance its reforms and move steadily closer to EU standards. The CEF remains committed to supporting these efforts and strongly believes in Kosovo’s capacity to deliver lasting, meaningful change.

Read the full article here: Interview with CEF director Jana Repanšek: Reforms that shape economic destiny – Is Kosovo ready?