The Ministry of Regional Development and Public Works presents the European Label for Innovation and Governance’ Excellence to Municipalities

Local authorities can apply for the prize until June 10

For the sixth time, the Ministry of Regional Development and Public Works will present the European Label for Innovation and Governance’ Excellence to Bulgarian municipalities.

The European label is a certificate of quality for overall management in municipalities. It is awarded according to uniform criteria developed by the Council of Europe. The prize certifies that the municipality meets European standards for quality governance at the local level and applies the twelve principles of good democratic governance. These are: fair conduct of elections, representation and participation, responsiveness, efficiency and effectiveness, openness and transparency, rule of law, ethical conduct, competence and capacity, innovation and openness to change, sustainability and long-term orientation, sound financial management, human rights, cultural diversity and social cohesion, accountability.

The principles ensure effective and efficient planning and management of local policies for the benefit of citizens, various social groups and businesses. The prize is awarded for a period of two years to local authorities.

The awarding of the European label is carried out in partnership between the Ministry of Regional Development and Public Works and the National Association of Municipalities. All Bulgarian municipalities that apply the 12 principles of good democratic governance in their work can apply. Municipalities can apply for the sixth procedure until June 10, 2022. The initiative is in implementation of the Strategy for Innovation and Good Governance at the local level of the Council of Europe. It has been successfully applied in Bulgaria for more than twelve years.

So far, 38 municipalities have been awarded the European Label for Governance’ Excellence - Bansko, Lovech, Berkovitsa, Lyaskovets, Burgas, Mezdra, Byala Slatina, Pavlikeni, Vratsa, Pernik, Valchi Dol, Petrich, Gabrovo, Pomorie, Gorna Oryahovitsa, Ruse, Devnya, Samokov, Dimitrovgrad, Svilengrad, Dobrich, Svishtov, Dolna Banya, Smolyan, Ihtiman, Smyadovo, Karlovo, Sofia Municipality, Kaspichan, Sarnitsa, Kirkovo, Teteven, Kneja, Troyan, Kardzhali, Targovishte, Levski and Chelopech.