Brezovica, June 11–13 - Kosovo took a major step forward  by holding its first-ever workshop focused on developing a national approach to the Green Agenda for the Western Balkans (GAWB). Organized by the Office of the Prime Minister and supported by UNOPS through the Knowledge for Reform Action (K4R) project, the event gathered around 30 representatives from line ministries and agencies for three days of collaboration and co-ordinated action.

This workshop is the first in a series designed to help Kosovo implement its commitments under the Sofia Declaration, which was signed in 2020 as part of the Berlin Process. By integrating the Green Agenda, Kosovo is aligning itself with the EU’s European Green Deal and signaling its dedication to building a sustainable, climate-friendly economy.

During the workshop, participants from the Ministry of Environment, Ministry of Agriculture, Kosovo Environmental Protection Agency, and other institutions came together to map out how Kosovo can integrate green principles into its national policies and discussed how to strengthen collaboration between ministries and municipalities.

“This process strengthens Kosovo’s institutional vision for a sustainable future, built on inclusive and coordinated governance” said Dr. Liridona Sopjani, Senior Advisor on Cluster 4 Green Agenda and Sustainable Connectivity at the Office of the Prime Minister and workshop facilitator 

Discussions and co-creation covered all five key pillars of the Green Agenda: decarbonisation, circular economy, depollution, sustainable agriculture, and nature protection. Participants also looked at seven thematic roadmaps ranging from climate action to biodiversity, focusing on what is needed for implementation from now through 2045.

The workshop highlighted that while Kosovo has already adopted or is finalizing several key roadmaps—like the Climate Adaptation Roadmap—more work is needed to boost institutional capacity and secure sustainable financing. Strengthening local government involvement and ensuring that the green transition is fair and inclusive were emphasized as top priorities.

"Kosovo welcomes the green transition but firmly believes it must be just and benefit all," said Mr.Jeton Zulfaj, Political Advisor to the Prime Minister and SHERPA of the Berlin Process. "Through this workshop, we've seen strong proactive steps from our institutions, but we also recognize the need for sustained financing to keep moving forward."

The workshop was made possible through the UNOPS-implemented K4R project, which supports Western Balkan Six countries in advancing their EU reform agendas. By providing technical expertise and fostering regional cooperation, K4R plays a key role in helping countries like Kosovo turn ambitious green commitments into concrete actions.