Association of Urban Municipalities of Slovenia (ZMOS)
The Association of Urban Municipalities of Slovenia (ZMOS – Združenje mestnih občin Slovenije) is the only representative association of municipalities in Slovenia that exclusively represents the interests of 12 urban municipalities. Out of 212 municipalities, the 12 urban municipalities, all members of ZMOS, cover more than a third of the population and act as regional urban centres, with a high concentration of economic, social, governmental and other public services.
The core mission of ZMOS is to represent and safeguard the interests of urban municipalities on the national and international level. ZMOS is striving to achieve its mission with the following activities:
- monitoring of national legislation and legislative proposals that directly or indirectly affect the status, powers, financial or other means and general interests of urban municipalities,
- preparing position papers and proposals for legislative amendments and presenting them to the government and both chambers of the parliament, as well as to other relevant stakeholders,
- fostering the exchange of best practices between urban municipalities to tackle various challenges and to continuously improve the quality of public services that urban municipalities provide, providing seminars and other events meant to improve the qualifications of municipal employees,
- organization of public discussions on pertinent aspects of local self-government in Slovenia, emphasizing the special role of urban municipalities,
- cooperation with international associations of regional and local authorities,
- preparation, active participation and implementation of projects to the benefit of members.
Representation of ZMOS in Brussels
Association of Urban Municipalities of Slovenia actively engages at the European level to strengthen the role of cities in EU policy-making and funding frameworks.
To enhance its international presence and direct cooperation with EU institutions, ZMOS established an office in Brussels, which represents the interests of Slovenian urban municipalities and supports access to European programmes and partnerships. The Brussels Office serves as a key liaison point between Slovenian cities, EU institutions, and European networks of cities and regions.
The Representation of ZMOS in Brussels supports Slovenian urban municipalities in their engagement at the European level. Its main tasks include:
- representing the interests of urban municipalities at EU institutions,
- monitoring EU policies and initiatives relevant to cities,
- supporting access to EU programmes and funding opportunities,
- facilitating cooperation with European institutions, city networks and partners,
- supporting the preparation and positioning of urban project initiatives,
- organising meetings, visits and events in Brussels.