Strengthening Leadership and Reform Capacity Through the FISR2 Project
As part of the EU-funded Structural Reforms Better Integrated within Fiscal Frameworks (FISR2) project, Bahri Gündüz from the General Directorate of Plant Production at the Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry of Türkiye participated in several project activities, including online courses, workshops, webinars, and engagement within the Economic Reform Programme (ERP) framework. The experience provided a valuable opportunity for reflection, learning, and professional development. Through the project’s structured approach, Mr. Gündüz gained new perspectives on leadership, communication, and decision-making, while strengthening his ability to contribute effectively to public administration and institutional development.
"My participation in the learning program on the ERP, especially through CEF’s network of regional ERP experts, has significantly contributed to my professional growth. Participating in these activities gave me the opportunity to reflect on my work from a new perspective and to better understand my own leadership approach.
One of the most important insights I gained was a deeper understanding of the ERP process and the role of effective communication within it. I realized that successful coordination and monitoring of the ERP process is not simply about assigning tasks; it is about guiding people, asking the right questions, and working towards clearly defined outcomes. This understanding has helped me become more structured, focused, and confident in my daily work.
The learning process was highly practical and directly applicable to real situations from my professional experience. The project encouraged me to analyze challenges more thoughtfully, improve the way I communicate with colleagues and stakeholders, and listen more carefully to different perspectives. As a result, I developed a clearer understanding of both my strengths and the areas where I can continue to grow.
Through this experience, I strengthened key competencies that are essential for contributing to policymaking and public administration reform, including strategic thinking, effective communication, and a results-oriented mindset. These skills are equally important for supporting institutional development and advancing Türkiye’s EU integration process.
Overall, the FISR2 project contributed significantly to both my professional and personal growth, providing me with practical tools and insights that I will continue to apply throughout my career.
I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the CEF for promoting meaningful change and for being among the first institutions to implement such innovative and unique initiatives. These programs bring together and help shape a new generation of leaders and policy makers across the Western Balkans, Türkiye, and other EU candidate countries.
For me, it is clear that the alumni of this project, as well as future participants, will play an important role in developing new approaches to supporting and advancing the EU integration process in their respective countries."