Croatia Leads the Charge in Digital Transformation with European ‘Once-Only’ Initiative

Achieving Level 5 in the European “Once-Only Technical System,” Croatia Pioneers Streamlined Public Administration Across the EU

Croatia has emerged as a frontrunner in the digital transformation of public administration, achieving a significant milestone in the European Union’s “Once-Only Technical System” (OOTS). The OOTS initiative aims to simplify administrative processes and enhance interoperability among EU member states by allowing citizens and businesses to submit their data to public institutions just once, streamlining bureaucratic procedures across borders.

As one of only seven EU member states to reach Level 5 on the OOTS integration success scale, Croatia stands out for its remarkable progress. This achievement is rooted in a series of strategic initiatives that began with the former Central State Office for the Development of Digital Society and have continued under the Ministry of Justice, Public Administration, and Digital Transformation. Their work, particularly through the “Establishment of a Central Interoperability System” project, supported by the National Recovery and Resilience Plan 2021–2026, has provided a strong foundation for the successful integration of the OOTS into Croatia’s public administration.

The “once-only principle” central to the OOTS ensures that citizens and businesses provide their data only once, which is then securely shared between various public institutions. This innovative system reduces administrative burdens, accelerates processes, and enhances service quality, all while upholding high privacy and security standards. Croatia’s leadership in this area is not only a testament to its technical advancements but also to its unwavering commitment to improving public services for its citizens.

In addition to the OOTS, Croatia has made significant strides in integrating the “Once-Only Common Services” (OOCS), a broader initiative aimed at further enhancing public service delivery. By testing the Lifecycle Management Interface as part of this initiative, Croatia has optimized the use of this system, making it easier for citizens and businesses to engage with public services. This integration promises to streamline interactions between the public and administration, improving efficiency and user experience.

Minister Habijan highlighted that the country’s success in reaching Level 5 reflects Croatia’s sustained investments in digital infrastructure, improved security measures, and the creation of user-friendly public services. He noted that Croatia’s position as a leader in the OOTS rollout makes it a key player in the broader EU-wide transformation of public services.

The OOTS project is part of the European Commission’s Connecting Europe Facility, an initiative designed to support digital infrastructure and foster cross-border collaboration. With its continued focus on digitalization and innovation, Croatia is set to become a model for other EU member states, showcasing how effective digital transformation can enhance the delivery of public services and improve the quality of life for citizens.

As Croatia continues to expand its digital public services, the country’s success serves as a shining example of how strategic investments in technology and infrastructure can drive meaningful change in government operations. With a focus on efficiency, security, and citizen engagement, Croatia’s digital transformation is poised to inspire and shape the future of public administration across Europe.