VLEN Advocates for Citizen-Focused Decentralization
The VLEN initiative is asserting that true democracy originates within local communities, emphasizing the importance of engagement at the municipal and neighborhood level. According to VLEN representatives, this begins with daily interactions within the community – in schools, public spaces, and local services. A core tenet of the VLEN program is prioritizing decentralization.
The organization believes this is crucial for empowering local governance. Specifically, VLEN aims to achieve autonomy in decision-making for municipalities, alongside fiscal decentralization and increased opportunities for cross-border cooperation. “VLEN gives a new meaning to decentralization,” stated a VLEN representative.
“For us, this means autonomy in decision-making for municipalities, fiscal decentralization, greater space for cross-border cooperation, stimulation of local economic development, and a stronger role for local power in primary and secondary education.”
The project is committed to equipping municipalities with clearly defined competencies, appropriate tools, and the authority to determine their development priorities. This includes fostering local economic development and facilitating cooperation with neighboring municipalities. The strategic project Tetovo–Prizren reflects this commitment to VLEN’s core values and underscores decentralization as a key priority.
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This approach to decentralization could genuinely empower local residents and foster more responsive governance.