Dear partners and readers,

Herewith the Foundation for Local Government Reform (FLGR) reports on the activities implemented within the period of January - December 2008. Established in 1995 by a group of mayors, the Foundation strengthens successfully its position and works as an independent professional resource centre, supporting local democracy.

FLGR clearly defines its objectives and priorities. Its specific activities are in accordance with the local government needs and the contemporary trends in the field of local government development. Our main strategic fields of work are:

• Stimulating dialogue and achieving consensus for effective policy and joint initiatives between various stakeholders and governmental levels;
• Professional development and consultations for local governments, their civic and business partners;
• Provision of needed and topical information to different customers through the use of appropriate technology;
• Partnerships for local economic development;
• Improvement of the administrative services provision;
• Support for the implementation of projects of NGOs and municipalities – Community Forum Program;
• FLGR invests in its professional and organizational development.

In 2008 FLGR managed to develop and carry out projects that were in the interests of Bulgarian municipalities and stakeholders and guarantee the financial independence and vitality of the organization.

Zdravko Sechkov,

Acting Director of FLGR

May 2009