Advancing medium and long-term adaptation planning in the Republic of Serbia – Phase II

Serbia's National Adaptation Plan (NAP) project has entered a critical implementation phase, building on the groundwork laid during its initial efforts. The project now focuses on translating earlier vulnerability assessments and policy development—including the adoption of the NAP itself—into tangible action. Central to this phase is the execution of Serbia’s first NAP Action Plan (2024–2026), which outlines key adaptation priorities. At the same time, the groundwork is being laid for the subsequent plan (2027–2029), ensuring continuity and momentum in the country’s climate resilience efforts.

To support effective implementation, the project is establishing a robust national Monitoring & Evaluation system. This includes the development of a legal bylaw and a standardized methodology to assess climate-induced loss and damage—an essential step for understanding climate risks and tracking progress. By institutionalizing climate adaptation monitoring, Serbia is positioning itself to more effectively evaluate and refine its strategies over time, aligning with international best practices.

A key innovation in this phase is the integration of climate change adaptation (CCA) into public finance. Through climate-sensitive budget planning and a framework for tracking green expenditures, the project aims to mainstream CCA into national and local budgeting processes. This not only ensures more efficient allocation of resources but also strengthens accountability and transparency in adaptation financing. In parallel, the project is actively engaging the private sector by introducing incentives and innovative funding mechanisms—such as challenge calls—to encourage private investment in adaptation solutions, a significant shift from Serbia’s traditionally public-sector-driven approach.

The NAP project is also strengthening Serbia’s future adaptation portfolio through the development of two adaptation concept notes, signaling the start of a national pipeline for accessing Green Climate Fund and other international resources. Additionally, sectoral tools and methodologies are being developed to support adaptation across key sectors—such as tools for analyzing drought as a multidimensional hazard and frameworks for biodiversity vulnerability monitoring. To enable these efforts, the project is investing in capacity building for sector ministries and local governments, particularly in financing and planning, ensuring that climate risk considerations are fully integrated across all levels of decision-making. Together, these efforts aim to reinforce and expand the institutional foundations established during the first phase of the NAP process. 

• Outcome 3.1 Adaptation planning governance and institutional coordination strengthened 

• Outcome 3.2 Evidence produced to design adaptation solutions for maximum impact

• Outcome 3.3 Private sector engagement in adaptation catalyzed

• Outcome 3.4 Adaptation finance increased