The most viable option of territorial and functional (re)organization of the local self-governanceBanjaluka, 04 July 2008 - Within the project „Development and introduction of the multi-type units of local self-governance in B&H”, the round table on “Corrections or remodeling – it’s good to build well (analysis of development options in local self-governance in the Republic of Srpska and the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina” was held in the RS National Assembly. The foundation for discussion was provided by the same study. The organizer of this event was Development Agency Eda Banja Luka under the aegis of the President of National Assembly of the Republic of Srpska, Mr. Igor Radojicic.

The round table was attended by the RS Minister of Administration and Local Government, Mr. Zoran Lipovac, the RS Government representatives, the RS National Assembly representatives, mayors, members of academia, institutes, NGOs and international organizations.

The discussion was held on available options on territorial and functional (re)organization of local self-governance in the RS and Federation B&H. The options are: status quo, small municipalities with small competences, big municipalities with big competences and option keep and improve (minimal territorial corrections with differentiation in competences). The study examines possibilities of transformation in basic models for organization of local self-governance in RS and FBiH looking through the prism of spatial-demographic circumstances, economic-financial implications, socio-political assessments and necessary intervention in laws and regulations. The acceptance of proposed solutions were assessed on the basis of opinion surveys (respondent were municipal mayors and representatives from the RS National assembly). It should be mentioned that the most favorable option of territorial and functional (re)organization of local self-governance was regarded as “keep and improve”, that also was pronounced by the RS Minister and RS Government representatives.

Participants have pointed that analyses of this kind are of high importance for strategic decision in the area of public policy. The main findings and recommendations were upheld, with conclusions that is necessary to move toward introduction of gradually and well prepared changes.

The study can be taken from the website http://www.edabl.org/publikacije.htm.