UNHCR and the National Academy for Public Administration sign Memorandum of Understanding to strengthen capacities of civil servants in the area of asylum

The UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) in Serbia and the National Academy for Public Administration (NAPA) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding establishing an institutional partnership dedicated to enhancing the knowledge and skills of civil servants in the field of asylum and refugee protection. The document was signed by Soufiane Adjali, UNHCR Representative in the Republic of Serbia, and Marina Dražić, Director of NAPA.

By signing the Memorandum, UNHCR and NAPA jointly reaffirm their commitment to professional, lawful and sensitive treatment of people seeking international protection, in line with applicable regulations and international standards. The partnership focuses on the long-term strengthening of the capacities of institutions that participate in the asylum system and on improving the quality of public services.

“Together we are strengthening the capacities of the public administration so that we can continue to advance national capacities in the area of refugee protection and ensure that procedures are fair and efficient and deliver international protection to all those who need it,” said Soufiane Adjali.

“By signing this Memorandum, the National Academy for Public Administration continues to build a public administration that acts in a professional and responsible manner and fully understands the needs of all citizens. Cooperation with UNHCR is an important step towards strengthening the knowledge and capacities of officials who contribute to the refugee protection system every day. Together we are building an administration that provides support, understanding and hope to those who are most in need of protection,” said Marina Dražić.

Through this cooperation, UNHCR and NAPA will jointly develop and deliver training for civil servants in the field of asylum and refugee protection, and will prepare and publish digital materials and online courses that will be available throughout Serbia via the NAPA platform. In line with the Global Compact on Refugees, an annual workplan with clear activities and timelines will be established, focal points in both institutions will be designated and joint meetings will be held at least twice a year to review progress and agree on next steps.