NTO peer learning enters its 3rd edition

Enhancing the capacities of tax organisations through peer-to-peer learning and exchange

The Network of Tax Organisations (NTO) is preparing for the third edition of its peer-to-peer learning initiative, a core component of NTO value proposition 1: to develop a vibrant platform for peer exchange and collaborations among its members.

The NTO aims to develop this vibrant platform for peer exchange and collaboration not only among the tax authorities affiliated with the tax organisations members of the Network – such as the well-known NTO webinars on contemporary issues of interest to tax administrations, like tax compliance and cryptocurrencies, tax and gender, and environmental taxes, which bring together tax officers from these tax administrations to share their knowledge and national experiences – but also at the Secretariat level of its ten member organisations.

Peer learning between regional and international tax organisations presents an opportunity to strengthen their core processes. Improved processes will enable these tax organisations to provide better services and products to their member tax authorities, ultimately contributing to improving the efficiency of tax administrations.

A member needs survey conducted in 2021 identified priority areas where NTO members required support. The results of this survey now inform the thematic areas for subsequent NTO peer-to-peer learning initiatives, ensuring that the sessions are relevant and impactful.

What’s new in 2024?

This year’s peer-to-peer learning programme will feature two formats, building on the success of previous editions. The initiative will be hosted by the Inter-American Center of Tax Administrations (CIAT) and includes:

Virtual Exchanges (September 25, 26, and October 1, 2):
Four sessions will be held, primarily among NTO Secretariats. The Secretariat of the NTO will lead the first session on 25 September on “Products on organisational development”. CIAT will host two sessions, one on its CIAT Helpdesk and the other on “Organisational process management”. Furthermore, a special session on 2 October will focus on "Special Taxation Regimes for Taxpayers with Lower Capacity," bringing together the expertise of NTO members and interested tax authorities.
Study Visit (November 18-22):
The NTO Study Visit 2024 will be hosted by the Intra-European Organization of Tax Administration (IOTA) at its headquarters in Budapest. It will provide an opportunity for in-person peer-to-peer learning and a deeper exploration of core tax processes.

Looking back

The first NTO peer learning initiative took place in 2022, led by CIAT through six virtual live sessions. The focus was on three key areas: i) training models for tax administration officials; ii) delivery of technical assistance and cooperation projects; and iii) setting up a research unit plan and developing a research framework (with the latter delivered by the African Tax Administration Forum (ATAF)).

NTO peer learning 1 — *Snap during first peer learning session of NTO members. September 2022.*

In 2023, the peer learning initiative evolved with the first-ever NTO Study Visit hosted by CIAT in Panama. Colleagues from IOTA and the Pacific Island Tax Administrators Association (PITAA) travelled to CIAT’s headquarters in Panama City to participate in an immersive study visit, bringing the until then virtual network into a physical setting.

nto p2p2 — *Picture taken during the NTO Study Visit at CIAT headquarters in Panama City. October 2023.*

In 2024, NTO is taking the peer-to-peer learning initiative to the next level by combining both virtual and in-person formats, fostering a dynamic a comprehensive platform for exchange on tax administrations matters. These exchanges aim not only to increase the capacity of NTO members but also to serve as a tool to strengthen the global network.