Researchers from the Institute of Public Finance discussed the implementation and progress of the National Recovery and Resilience Plan with representatives of the European Commission (DG ECFIN and SG RECOVER) on 29 March 2023. The main topics discussed at the meeting were local government reforms, the effectiveness of social benefits, and healthcare.

By comparing foreign experiences and previous reforms, possible challenges in implementing the functional and actual merger of local units were analysed. The importance of a political will, increasing transparency and more active participation of citizens was emphasised.

The Institute's researchers also commented on the effectiveness of social benefits, the guaranteed minimum benefit and the national benefit for the elderly. They emphasised the importance and value of the announced household register for better administration and effectiveness of social benefits in reducing poverty.

Also, structural reform is necessary for the healthcare sector, and one of the goals is to raise awareness among the public and healthcare professionals about costs and inefficient processes in the healthcare system.