Institution Building Days 2026: Strengthening Institutions and Improving Lives

On 22 and 23 April 2026, the European Commission held its annual Institution Building Days in Brussels, marking the 30th anniversary of the Technical Assistance and Information Exchange Instrument (TAIEX).

Institution Building Days is the European Union’s flagship event for institution-building cooperation supported by Twinning and TAIEX. More than 300 participants from EU Member States and partner countries from all over the world exchanged on current reform challenges, focusing on:

• strengthening governance and public administration;
• fostering economic growth and investment;
• advancing digital transformation and innovation;
• supporting democratic resilience and security.

Participants also reaffirmed TAIEX’s central role in facilitating EU’s partnerships, trade relations and the setting of EU standards based on shared practice.

TAIEX Champions Awards

Commissioner Kos also presented TAIEX Champions Awards, recognising countries whose expertise and commitment are making a difference across Europe and beyond:

• Belgium, Germany and Slovenia were recognised as TAIEX Champions for Protecting Citizens’ Rights, Justice and Security, highlighting their leadership in strengthening rule of law and public trust.
• Malta, the Netherlands and Romania were honoured as TAIEX Champions for Unlocking Jobs, Trade and Growth Opportunities, supporting businesses and creating new opportunities.
• Estonia, Finland and Lithuania received recognition as TAIEX Champions for Leading Digital Innovation and Competitiveness, sharing cutting-edge solutions that benefit citizens and businesses across borders.
• Austria, Poland and Spain were named TAIEX Champions for a Cleaner Environment and Modern Transport, contributing to a greener and more connected Europe.
• Croatia, France and Italy were awarded as TAIEX Champions for Promoting Sustainable Agriculture, Food Security and Stronger Rural Communities, supporting farmers and rural development across regions.

The awards also recognised partner countries for their reform and institution-building efforts: 

• Montenegro was recognised as a TAIEX Champion for Strategic Use of TAIEX to Advance Accession Reforms.
• Albania was honoured as a TAIEX Champion for Strengthening Justice Institutions through Vetting.
• Moldova received recognition as a TAIEX Champion for Democratic Resilience.
• Ukraine was awarded as a TAIEX Champion for Effective Use of TAIEX under Challenging Conditions.
• In addition, Morocco and El Salvador were recognised as TAIEX Champions for Strengthening Strategic Partnerships with Europe.

Background

Since its creation in 1996, TAIEX has become a cornerstone of EU institution-building. It has facilitated more than half a million exchanges between public administrations of EU partner countries across the globe and EU Member States. TAIEX has proved instrumental in helping partners align with EU standards, strengthening governance, building expertise across policy areas, reinforcing the rule of law and creating a more conducive business environment. This has translated into better public services, safer products, stronger trade and more resilient democratic institutions.

For more information

TAIEX 30 website

contact: ENEST-TAIEXec [dot] europa [dot] eu (ENEST-TAIEX[at]ec[dot]europa[dot]eu)

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