This policy paper covers the implementation of the second phase of the reform of rationalization of executive agencies and regulators in Kosovo in order to contribute to its implementation. On the one hand, it assesses the state of play regarding the agencies of this phase. On the other hand, the paper discusses possible options for their rationalisation. 

Combating the pandemic through delivering assistance, has become the cornerstone of diplomatic action. To this end, since the pandemic outbreak, the diplomatic activity of states and multilateral organizations has been largely focused on finding the best alternatives to secure or deliver cross-border assistance. This short document will dwell into some of these effects, more concretely on how foreign assistance has impacted international politics thus far. Apart from a general discussion, the document focuses more extensively in the case of Kosovo.

The effects of the pandemic in the field of foreign policy will be massive. Covid-19 has had a serious impact in the relations and communication between states, given that it has transformed the manner in which daily diplomacy is conducted. This policy notes problematizes an aspect which has already produced consequences, that is the reduction of the physical interacion and meetings between state representatives. The closing of borders and limited movement at the global level, has implied that official visits had to be canceled or postponed, while the diplomatic meetings have passed in the realm of virtual platforms.

The Action Plan for Rationalization of Independent Agencies was approved by the Government of Kosovo in 2017. This document is an obligation arising from the European Reform Agenda (ERA), a document derived from Kosovo's Stabilization and Association Agreement (SAA) with the EU. Also the SBS contract, the Financial Sector Support Agreement (SBS) between the Government and the European Commission through which the EC conditions the transfer of financial support tranches with progress throughout the rationalization process during 2018 and 2019 with the achievement of the objectives of this plan.

The survey, “International Politics and Political Parties: The Perceptions of Kosovar Citizens” was undertaken by the Prishtina Institute for Political Studies (PIPS) for the first time in 2019. The survey is supported by the Konrad Adenauer Stiftung (KAS) and will be conducted annually, under the PIPS Program for Foreign Policy Analysis. 

Having access to energy is associated with better health services, education and more developed industries. Due to the remoteness of rural areas, these communities often do not have access to modern energy sources and are not connected to energy grids. This contributes to poverty, lack of health services, and low education levels. Using literature review and case studies, this paper will look at the connection between energy and development, the challenges of energy access for rural areas, and how and if RET projects can be designed to tackle energy poverty in these areas. 

This monitoring report reviews the achievements of the institutions throughout 2018, nonetheless, we have published monitoring reports for the six- and nine-month monitoring period. In order to give a clear picture of the state and process of ERA implementation, this study focuses on elaborating the methodology and results of the monitoring process, analyzing the current state of the achievements and shortcomings of institutions, as well as providing conclusions and recommendations.