Besjana Kuci: Sustainability of Regional Networking is a Challenge

Regional civil society networks can create new opportunities, but their sustainability remains an issue, stated Besjana Kuci in an interview for the POINTPULSE.

By Mateja Agatonović (BCSP) / Photo: IDM

Besjana Kuci is a researcher at the Tirana-based Institute for Democracy and Mediation, organization dedicated to reform of governance and security sector. The POINTPULSE made an interview with her during last week event in Pristina, regarding IDM practice in building police integrity.

What is the biggest impact of your organization in tackling police corruption?

IDM has been working on police reform in Albania for over a decade now and it is recognized as an important civil society contributor on this regard. Certainly, it is not always an easy task, but this is a significant indicator of our impact towards police reform in the country.

The main focus of our work has been on research and knowledge sharing, as well as capacity building activities on different aspects of police reform.

With regard to police corruption, IDM has been actively involved in the reviewing of the code of ethics and produce relevant research and conduct training on the improvement of the anti-corruption measures within the police organization.

What are the challenges that you face in your communication with the police?

Although there are legal provisions in place on the right to information, the most frequent problems are related to not having information in a timely manner and very few updated information is available online.

What are the benefits and drawbacks of civil society networking on a regional level?

In my opinion, the most valuable aspect of networking on the regional level is the exchange of experiences and practices that each organization has in their own countries. In a way, networking creates the opportunity to amplify efforts across the region.

On the other hand, the sustainability of these networks is still an issue. Dependence mainly on international community’s financial support is also a challenge for civil society networks.