EPTISA signs a new multicounty WB-funded contract – Utility of the Future (UoF) Center of Excellence: Agile Policy, Institutions and Regulations (PIR) Implementation in 6 countries – Western Balkans. The general objective of this assignment is to Implement the Agile PIR Framework Tool in six countries. This includes the complete implementation of Agile PIR Tool across: Albania, Kosovo[*], Montenegro, North Macedonia, and Serbia; and, an updated version of the PIR study for Bosnia-Herzegovina, which was prepared in 2021, resulting in a clear roadmap for strengthening the water sector in the region.

In implementing the Agile PIR Framework Tool, this assignment shall aim at the following specific objectives:

  1. Procuring a deeper understanding of PIR elements that shape the water sector in each of the selected countries;
  2. Identifying key binding constraints to optimal sector performance and prioritized reform options for each country;
  3. Fostering consensus building between key sector stakeholders on key binding constraints and priorities in each country, and identifying actions for strengthening WSS utilities in the Western Balkan region;
  4. Supporting enabling environment to accelerate sustainable, equitable and, universal access to Water and Sanitation Services in the Western Balkan Region.
  5. Aligning the implementation of Agile PIR to the World Bank Western Balkans Project, as key input for the implementation of Utility of the Future Program in the region.

Through implementation of this project EPTISA will closely cooperate with key institutions responsible for management and reform of water utility services, in close cooperation with the World Bank staff.

For more information about EPTISA and its operation in Southeast Europe, please visit www.eptisasee.com.

[*] This designation is without prejudice to positions on status, and is in line with UNSCR 1244/1999 and the ICJ Opinion on the Kosovo declaration of independence.