Administrative supervision plays a central role in ensuring legality, accountability and effective public service delivery, while safeguarding local autonomy. This online seminar examined administrative supervision of local governments as a key pillar of multi-level governance, focusing on good practices and lessons from the EU and their relevance for the Western Balkans.
The discussion explored how supervisory systems, traditionally centred on control mechanisms, are evolving towards more balanced approaches that include guidance, prevention and co-operative problem-solving. Particular attention was given to the principles established by the European Charter of Local Self-Government, including legality, proportionality and respect for local autonomy.
Drawing on comparative insights, the seminar analysed the current state of supervision frameworks in the Western Balkans, highlighting challenges such as fragmentation, limited co-ordination and uneven enforcement practices. Case studies from Lithuania, Slovakia and Sweden provided practical examples of how Charter principles can be translated into coherent and effective supervisory systems, offering concrete insights for policymakers and public administrations seeking to strengthen governance at the local level.
