We invite you to get a glimpse into the podcast discussion by reading the highlights below — or listen to the full episode at the link here. Please note: the podcast is in Slovene.

What challenges do the countries of South East and East Europe face in managing public finances, and how does the CEF help address them?

The countries of South East and East Europe face a range of challenges in managing public finances, many of which stem from historical, political, and social circumstances. Key issues include a lack of confidence among public officials, reluctance to take responsibility, a tendency to wait for instructions from superiors, and the emigration of educated and talented individuals due to an unsupportive work environment. Moreover, there are significant differences between countries — in the size and capacity of public administrations, levels of political stability, and the motivation of public employees.

The CEF supports these countries by strengthening the capacities of public officials and institutions in the area of public finance through learning programs, knowledge exchange, and support for reform implementation. The CEF focuses on how to implement change — rather than what needs to be done, as that is often already defined by national plans and international institutions.

In doing so, the CEF acts as a bridge between knowledge, experience, and effective public policy, staying committed to the values of collaboration, learning, and sustainable change — regardless of broader geopolitical challenges.

How does the CEF specifically support public officials in developing the knowledge and skills needed for more effective public financial management?

The CEF supports public officials by creating participatory learning environments where participants actively contribute to building their knowledge and skills. CEF programs include workshops, study visits, conferences, and webinars, all of which place participants at the center of the learning process. CEF facilitators design learning environments where every participant is expected to contribute and learn through practice, supported by peers and experienced mentors. This type of learning builds skills, confidence, and trust in one's own abilities.

A notable success story is the WeLead program, designed to build a strong community of younger public officials with leadership potential. These participants come from various Southeast European countries and develop leadership skills and professional networks through the program, leading to long-term improvements in their home institutions. Through initiatives like this, the CEF shows that successful public finance reforms begin not only with technical expertise, but with the development of human potential.

How does the CEF help public officials build confidence and become more proactive in driving change within their organizations?

The CEF fosters greater confidence and proactivity among public officials by offering participatory learning spaces where they are not passive recipients of information but active co-creators. The CEF believes that knowledge already exists within the countries, and its role is to help bring that knowledge to the surface and support it with an environment that encourages initiative, collaboration, and accountability.

Instead of prescribing what needs to be done, the CEF focuses on how to work more effectively in teams, how to engage in equal dialogue with international institutions, and how to co-create reforms and implement changes within institutions. A key emphasis is placed on shifting from a passive "waiting for instructions" mindset to one of individual agency and initiative within legal and institutional frameworks.

What is the future of the CEF, and what role will it play in the development of public institutions in the region?

The CEF will continue to play a vital role in the development of public institutions in South East and East Europe. Its core mission remains the strengthening of institutional capacities through training, workshops, and other forms of participatory learning, not just focused on public finance knowledge, but also on understanding how people embrace and lead change.

Looking ahead, the CEF sees its role in supporting professionals who want to contribute constructively to the development of their institutions, guided by knowledge and dialogue, not power. Even in uncertain global contexts, the CEF remains committed to principles of scientific reasoning, dialogue, and long-term stability.

Through initiatives like WeLead, the CEF is already shaping a new generation of leaders in public administration, individuals who are committed to professionalism and positive transformation in their countries. As the largest international organization headquartered in Slovenia, the CEF will continue to offer a platform for the exchange of knowledge, experience, and best practices across the region with the goal of building stronger, more self-reliant, and resilient public institutions.