The local government reform in Cyprus is currently going through its last preparatory phases, in view of the local elections which will take place in June 2024 and will change the shape of its territorial organisation. 

The Centre of Expertise for Good Governance, through its project “Enhancing the Local Government Reform in Cyprus”, has submitted to the Cypriot authorities a Policy Advice on the implementation of the reform. The report contains recommendations on issues related to the management of the newly formed local authorities, their competencies and the relevant financial implications. 
On 7 June, the Policy Advice was presented to the Steering Committee of the project. The representatives of the Ministry of Interior (the main project beneficiary), the Unions of the Cyprus Municipalities and Communities and the Cyprus Academy of Public Administration had a chance to discuss and exchange views with the Council of Europe experts on the main points raised by the report.
During the following two days, the Centre of Expertise will hold the first Training of Trainers session with local experts, in order to familiarise them with the Leadership Academy Programme methodology. International and local experts will also work together to start defining the structure of the upcoming capacity-building activities, addressing staff and elected representatives of local authorities.