Interns Continue their Professional Development through Sessions on Public Administration Reform and Integrity and Whistleblowing

As part of their professional development programme, interns continued exploring key areas of public administration, focusing on the ongoing reform of local public administration, voluntary amalgamation, as well as on integrity and whistleblowing in the public sector.

The first information session focused on local public administration reform and voluntary amalgamation, providing interns with a better understanding of the objectives, principles and practical implications of the reform process. Diana Chiriac, Head of Directorate within the State Chancellery, presented the main elements of the reform, highlighting the importance of strengthening local authorities, improving the quality of public services and ensuring that local communities have the capacity to respond effectively to citizens’ needs.

The discussion also addressed voluntary amalgamation of administrative-territorial units, its potential benefits for local communities and the role of informed decision-making in ensuring sustainable and effective local governance. The interns had the opportunity to discuss the challenges and opportunities associated with the reform and to gain a clearer perspective on how changes at the local level can contribute to more efficient public administration.

The second session addressed integrity and whistleblowing in public administration, with Natalia Cheptea, representative of the National Anticorruption Centre, providing insights into the importance of ethical conduct and accountability within public institutions.

The session explored the principles of integrity in public service, mechanisms for preventing and reporting corruption, as well as the role of whistleblowing in identifying and addressing wrongdoing. Particular attention was paid to the responsibilities of public officials and the importance of creating an institutional culture in which concerns can be reported safely and responsibly.

Through continuous exposure to experts and practitioners, the Internship programme gives young professionals an opportunity to connect theoretical knowledge with real practices and to develop the skills needed to become qualified civil servants in the future.