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The Sustainable Development Goals in Albania
The Sustainable Development Goals are a global call to action to end poverty, protect the earth’s environment and climate, and ensure that people everywhere can enjoy peace and prosperity. Learn how 19 UN Agencies work together to support Albania’s achievement of the SDGs. Click on any SDG icon below:
Press Release
12 October 2023
The United Nations Week in Albania 2023
UNITED NATIONS WEEK IN ALBANIA 2023:
23-25 October 2023
PROGRAMME
23 October 2023 - The SDG-themed Day - various locations across the country
Various activities will be taking place across the country, aiming to showcase and promote a wide range of interventions undertaken by the UN system in Albania in collaboration with Albanian authorities, development partners, groups of interest, and members of public at large. The activities will aim to address key issues that impact the achievement of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and related commitments.
09:30 - Opening Session: Strengthening the Global facilitators’ network under the UNESCO 2003 Convention - Tirana International Hotel, Tirana. Organized by UNESCO and the Ministry of Culture. This is a Training of Trainers workshop for incoming members of the European Chapter of the Global facilitators network under the 2003 Convention for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage.(This is a closed, invitations-only event)
10:00 - Climate Ambition Chat - Faculty of History-Philology, Tirana. Organized by UN Albania (UN RCO, UNDP, UNOPS) and the Embassy of Spain. An event in the form of a debate among climate experts and young people, to enhance the capacity of the youth to participate in meaningful climate change actions. (This is a closed, invitations-only event. Social media streaming may be provided.)
10:00 - Opening of Bootcamp on addressing gender and intersectional forms of discrimination - Hotel Adriatik, Durrës. Organized by UN Women in the frame of the LNB Joint Programme. The boot-camp will promote the role of social work students in properly addressing discrimination and disadvantages of certain groups. It will also improve the knowledge on the legal and policy framework of the students, as well as on the Albanian institutions directly engaged with the matter. (This is a closed, invitations-only event. Social media streaming may be provided.)
11:00 - Chestnut Promotion Day - at the main square of Bajram Curri. Organized by FAO. Chestnut Day is celebrated in Tropoja every year, and this year FAO is organizing an event to promote local agricultural products as an important aspect of supporting local economies, achieving SDGs, sustainability and well-being. (This is a Public event)
12:00 - Cities #WithRefugees: UNHCR in Gjirokastra - Municipality of Gjirokastra. Organized by UNHCR and Municipality of Gjirokastra . A ceremony of signing the #CitiesWithRefugees pledge by the Mayor of Gjirokastra, part of the global UNHCR campaign inviting cities and local authorities to promote inclusion, supporting refugees and bringing communities together to sign a statement of solidarity #WithRefugees.(This is a closed, invitations-only event. Social media streaming may be provided.)
15:30 - Launching Peace Week and "Western Balkans Youth Forum: Skills for Peace" - Hotel Xheko Imperial, Tirana. Organized by the UN Association Albania. The Regional Youth Peace Forum will form an integral part of "Peace Week 2023'", organized for the second consecutive year in the country, under the framework of UNA Albania's initiative to localize and operationalize the Youth, Peace, and Security Agenda, in the country. (This is a closed, invitations-only event. Social media streaming may be provided.)
24 October 2023 - United Nations Day - at Skanderbeg Square
The UN Day is the highlight of the UN Week in Albania 2023. Several events will be run at the Skanderbeg Square to mark the UN Day, showcase the UN-Albania relationship journey through a mini exhibition; make the case of the need to accelerate action on SDGs, showcase the work of UN system in Albania across the 4 outcomes of the UNSDCF 2022-26 and more. Events are open to the public unless otherwise specified) 11:00 - 12:00 - UN Day High level event - United Nations Albania, Ministry of Culture and Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs (This is an invitations-only event. Social Media streaming will be provided.)The United Nations Day will be the highlight of our UN Week in Albania 2023. Speeches from the UN Resident Coordinator Minister of Culture and the Deputy Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs will be held on the main stage, to continue with an exhibition and a day filled with activities. (This is a closed, invitations-only event. Social media streaming will be provided.) 12:00 - 12:30 - Unveiling of the UN and Albania Journey exhibition. The exhibition will spotlight four elements of the ‘journey’ through four different dimensions: (i) historical trajectory diplomatic relations between UN and Albania since the Albania’s accession to the United Nations (ii) key contributions and milestones of various UN entities that operate in Albania; (iv) milestones with respect to adoption of key human rights conventions; (v) the cultural heritage of Albania as part of global heritage protected by UN. 12:30 - 16:30 - The UN Fair - Various displays and interactive activities from UN agencies in Albania. Here are some highlights of activities happening during the fair: My Nature Pledge [organized by UNDP]; Youth and Environment: Youth4AirQuality organized by UNICEF and EDEN Center; Mental Health Awareness, organized by UNICEF and UN Association Albania] and much more 13:00 - 13.30 Cultivating Tomorrow: Young Agricultural Entrepreneurs Award Ceremony. An award ceremony focusing on Young Agricultural Entrepreneurs who have completed a comprehensive training program in agribusiness development and market-based digital skills. Organized by FAO 14:00 - 14.30 Puppet theatre show - A show for children on the importance of education on immunization and well-being. Organized by the WHO. 14:30-15:30 - Recraft the past, build up the future. Presentation of a successful case study on promoting cultural tourism, boosting the local economy, and generating income for Kruja artisans and local communities through the EU4Culture Grants program implemented by UNOPS. Organized by UNOPS [EU4Culture] 15:30-16:30 - Empowerment through Self-Defense - Sharing ESD tools and raising awareness on the importance of a safe community for gender equality, self-realization and self-care for women and girls. Organized by UN Women 16:30-17:00 - Performance by the folk ensemble Shqiponja - (supported by the Municipality of Tirana) - The Folk Ensemble Shqiponja will perform in the center of Tirana, in a performance filled with the treasures of our folk art heritage. 17:00-17:30 - Performance by Pleqtë e Krujës Folk Band - The concert by the renowned traditional folk band "Pleqte E Krujes" from the scenic mountain town of Krujë will offer you an opportunity to immerse in the rich tapestry of Albanian folk songs and transport you to the heart of tradition. Don't miss this enchanting concert that promises an unforgettable musical journey!(organized by UNOPS) 17:30-18:00 - Performances by refugee artists (organized by UNHCR and Refugee and Migrant Services in Albania - RMSA)- Through traditional dance adorned in traditional costumes, captivating music, and heartfelt poetry, the young refugees will immerse the audience in the vibrant cultural experiences they've encountered. 18:00-18:30 - Let's combat hate speech (theater performance). Outdoor theater performance of one of the winning groups from the youth boot-camp in Vlora – Youth Advocacy/Action to combat hate speech and build peace, trust and equality. Organized by: UNFPA and UNDP [PBF supported project] 19:00 - SDG Business Pioneers Award Albania 2023: Celebrating Sustainable Leaders in Albania - at the hall of the National Museum of Albania. Organized by UNDP and Business Partnerships and Solutions for SDGs Joint Programme (This is an invitations-only event. Social Media streaming may be provided.) The SDG Business Pioneers awards are aimed at recognizing and celebrating companies that demonstrate exceptional commitment to sustainability and contribute to the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). 25 October 2023 - The UN in Shkodra Important Note: Due to predicted weather conditions we are considering some adjustments and changes to the below programme. Please check back for the latest updates. This year, the UN Week 2023 will take us to Shkodra for a special day. This city with a rich history and full of culture will be our host for a day filled with interesting and informing activities, set to happen throughout the day. 10:00-10:30 - The United Nations Country Team in Albania meet with the Mayor of Shkodra 10:30-14.30 - The UN Fair - at The square in front of Shkodra Municipality. The fair will open with short speeches by Mayor and UN Resident Coordinator. Various displays and interactive activities will be run by the UN agencies in Albania and the Shkodr Municipality. Here are some highlights of activities happening during the fair: My Nature Pledge [organized by UNDP]; Exhibition of agricultural products from farmers in the area of Malësia e Madhe, as well as other farmers who may be invited by the Municipality of Shkodra [Organized by FAO with the support of the Municipality of Shkodra]; Cultural Heritage Fair (artisans' presentations and embroidery and pottery workshops for children) [Organized by UNOPS under the EU4Culture Programme] and more. 11:00-12:00 - Pupils of 4 Shkodra Vocational schools present their experience from the "Boost skills" program supported by UNICEF. Different experiences by pupils of the VE school will be presented in the frame of the Professional Education program of UNICEF. 11:30-12:30 - Breaking down barriers to inclusive justice. Organized bu UNDP. An event focusing on breaking down barriers to inclusive justice and promoting the free legal counseling for vulnerable groups program. 12:30-13:00 - Puppet theatre show. A show for children on the importance of education on immunization and well-being. Organized by the WHO. 13:00-14:00 - Musical performance from the children of the Children's Cultural Center (Main stage). A surprise performances by young artists from the Youth Cultural Centre, Shkodra 13:00 - 14:00 - Increasing awareness on Quality and Standards in the MAPs Sector -(local farm "Shporta e Reçit" in Malësia e Madhe) A regional forum organised by UNIDO in collaboration with Albanian Quality Infrastructure Institutions and SMEs. 14:30-16:00 - Visits/meetings with beneficiaries of various programs of UN agencies in Shkodra. (This is an invitation-only event) Visit to the UNICEF's BiblioTech Project, as part of the awareness month against trafficking; Visit to the UNFPA project at the City Maternity Ward As the weather for our day in Shkodra seems to be unstable, with rain forecasted, this is the new programme:
13:00 – 13:30 - RC/UNCT meeting with Mayor 13:30 – 14:30 - Meetings with program beneficiaries (UNICEF Bibliotech and UNFPA Maternity) 14:00 - 14:30 - Puppet theater show - A show for children on the importance of education on immunization and well-being. Organized by the WHO. 15:30 – 15:35 – Opening of the UN Fair – Welcoming word from the Mayor of the Municipality of Shkodra, Mr. Benet Beci and the UN Resident Coordinator in Albania, Ms. Fiona McCluney. [Venue: The main hall of the Shkodra Municipality] 15:35 – 17:00 – UN Fair and Agency Activities + Artistic Concert in the Shkodra Municipality Hall, 1st Floor 17:00 Conclusion of Activities , filtered_html
The UN Day is the highlight of the UN Week in Albania 2023. Several events will be run at the Skanderbeg Square to mark the UN Day, showcase the UN-Albania relationship journey through a mini exhibition; make the case of the need to accelerate action on SDGs, showcase the work of UN system in Albania across the 4 outcomes of the UNSDCF 2022-26 and more. Events are open to the public unless otherwise specified) 11:00 - 12:00 - UN Day High level event - United Nations Albania, Ministry of Culture and Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs (This is an invitations-only event. Social Media streaming will be provided.)The United Nations Day will be the highlight of our UN Week in Albania 2023. Speeches from the UN Resident Coordinator Minister of Culture and the Deputy Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs will be held on the main stage, to continue with an exhibition and a day filled with activities. (This is a closed, invitations-only event. Social media streaming will be provided.) 12:00 - 12:30 - Unveiling of the UN and Albania Journey exhibition. The exhibition will spotlight four elements of the ‘journey’ through four different dimensions: (i) historical trajectory diplomatic relations between UN and Albania since the Albania’s accession to the United Nations (ii) key contributions and milestones of various UN entities that operate in Albania; (iv) milestones with respect to adoption of key human rights conventions; (v) the cultural heritage of Albania as part of global heritage protected by UN. 12:30 - 16:30 - The UN Fair - Various displays and interactive activities from UN agencies in Albania. Here are some highlights of activities happening during the fair: My Nature Pledge [organized by UNDP]; Youth and Environment: Youth4AirQuality organized by UNICEF and EDEN Center; Mental Health Awareness, organized by UNICEF and UN Association Albania] and much more 13:00 - 13.30 Cultivating Tomorrow: Young Agricultural Entrepreneurs Award Ceremony. An award ceremony focusing on Young Agricultural Entrepreneurs who have completed a comprehensive training program in agribusiness development and market-based digital skills. Organized by FAO 14:00 - 14.30 Puppet theatre show - A show for children on the importance of education on immunization and well-being. Organized by the WHO. 14:30-15:30 - Recraft the past, build up the future. Presentation of a successful case study on promoting cultural tourism, boosting the local economy, and generating income for Kruja artisans and local communities through the EU4Culture Grants program implemented by UNOPS. Organized by UNOPS [EU4Culture] 15:30-16:30 - Empowerment through Self-Defense - Sharing ESD tools and raising awareness on the importance of a safe community for gender equality, self-realization and self-care for women and girls. Organized by UN Women 16:30-17:00 - Performance by the folk ensemble Shqiponja - (supported by the Municipality of Tirana) - The Folk Ensemble Shqiponja will perform in the center of Tirana, in a performance filled with the treasures of our folk art heritage. 17:00-17:30 - Performance by Pleqtë e Krujës Folk Band - The concert by the renowned traditional folk band "Pleqte E Krujes" from the scenic mountain town of Krujë will offer you an opportunity to immerse in the rich tapestry of Albanian folk songs and transport you to the heart of tradition. Don't miss this enchanting concert that promises an unforgettable musical journey!(organized by UNOPS) 17:30-18:00 - Performances by refugee artists (organized by UNHCR and Refugee and Migrant Services in Albania - RMSA)- Through traditional dance adorned in traditional costumes, captivating music, and heartfelt poetry, the young refugees will immerse the audience in the vibrant cultural experiences they've encountered. 18:00-18:30 - Let's combat hate speech (theater performance). Outdoor theater performance of one of the winning groups from the youth boot-camp in Vlora – Youth Advocacy/Action to combat hate speech and build peace, trust and equality. Organized by: UNFPA and UNDP [PBF supported project] 19:00 - SDG Business Pioneers Award Albania 2023: Celebrating Sustainable Leaders in Albania - at the hall of the National Museum of Albania. Organized by UNDP and Business Partnerships and Solutions for SDGs Joint Programme (This is an invitations-only event. Social Media streaming may be provided.) The SDG Business Pioneers awards are aimed at recognizing and celebrating companies that demonstrate exceptional commitment to sustainability and contribute to the achievement of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). 25 October 2023 - The UN in Shkodra Important Note: Due to predicted weather conditions we are considering some adjustments and changes to the below programme. Please check back for the latest updates. This year, the UN Week 2023 will take us to Shkodra for a special day. This city with a rich history and full of culture will be our host for a day filled with interesting and informing activities, set to happen throughout the day. 10:00-10:30 - The United Nations Country Team in Albania meet with the Mayor of Shkodra 10:30-14.30 - The UN Fair - at The square in front of Shkodra Municipality. The fair will open with short speeches by Mayor and UN Resident Coordinator. Various displays and interactive activities will be run by the UN agencies in Albania and the Shkodr Municipality. Here are some highlights of activities happening during the fair: My Nature Pledge [organized by UNDP]; Exhibition of agricultural products from farmers in the area of Malësia e Madhe, as well as other farmers who may be invited by the Municipality of Shkodra [Organized by FAO with the support of the Municipality of Shkodra]; Cultural Heritage Fair (artisans' presentations and embroidery and pottery workshops for children) [Organized by UNOPS under the EU4Culture Programme] and more. 11:00-12:00 - Pupils of 4 Shkodra Vocational schools present their experience from the "Boost skills" program supported by UNICEF. Different experiences by pupils of the VE school will be presented in the frame of the Professional Education program of UNICEF. 11:30-12:30 - Breaking down barriers to inclusive justice. Organized bu UNDP. An event focusing on breaking down barriers to inclusive justice and promoting the free legal counseling for vulnerable groups program. 12:30-13:00 - Puppet theatre show. A show for children on the importance of education on immunization and well-being. Organized by the WHO. 13:00-14:00 - Musical performance from the children of the Children's Cultural Center (Main stage). A surprise performances by young artists from the Youth Cultural Centre, Shkodra 13:00 - 14:00 - Increasing awareness on Quality and Standards in the MAPs Sector -(local farm "Shporta e Reçit" in Malësia e Madhe) A regional forum organised by UNIDO in collaboration with Albanian Quality Infrastructure Institutions and SMEs. 14:30-16:00 - Visits/meetings with beneficiaries of various programs of UN agencies in Shkodra. (This is an invitation-only event) Visit to the UNICEF's BiblioTech Project, as part of the awareness month against trafficking; Visit to the UNFPA project at the City Maternity Ward As the weather for our day in Shkodra seems to be unstable, with rain forecasted, this is the new programme:
13:00 – 13:30 - RC/UNCT meeting with Mayor 13:30 – 14:30 - Meetings with program beneficiaries (UNICEF Bibliotech and UNFPA Maternity) 14:00 - 14:30 - Puppet theater show - A show for children on the importance of education on immunization and well-being. Organized by the WHO. 15:30 – 15:35 – Opening of the UN Fair – Welcoming word from the Mayor of the Municipality of Shkodra, Mr. Benet Beci and the UN Resident Coordinator in Albania, Ms. Fiona McCluney. [Venue: The main hall of the Shkodra Municipality] 15:35 – 17:00 – UN Fair and Agency Activities + Artistic Concert in the Shkodra Municipality Hall, 1st Floor 17:00 Conclusion of Activities , filtered_html
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Press Release
28 March 2023
The United Nations in Albania condemns the tragic attack that occurred yesterday at Top Channel.
We urge the Albanian authorities to conduct a comprehensive and transparent investigation into the attack to ensure that those responsible are held accountable. It is crucial that the safety of journalists and media workers is guaranteed and that measures are taken to prevent future attacks on media professionals and institutions.
The UN in Albania is dedicated to supporting Albania in its efforts to protect the human rights of all citizens. , filtered_html
The UN in Albania is dedicated to supporting Albania in its efforts to protect the human rights of all citizens. , filtered_html
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Press Release
25 October 2021
Albania and UN renew commitment to joint work on sustainable development for the next five years
The Government of Albania and the United Nations Country Team in Albania announced their renewed commitment to a joint programme of work for the next five years this Monday, as Deputy Prime Minister Arben Ahmetaj and UN Resident Coordinator Fiona McCluney signed the Albania-UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework 2022-2026.
The signing ceremony took place during a dual-themed event marking the 76th anniversary of the UN held at the palace of Brigades in Tirana. The event was hosted by the Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs with the Office of Deputy Prime Minister of Albania and the UN Albania, with participation of key development stakeholders in the country.
In the spirit of the UN Day and the recent launch of Secretary General’s report on Our Common Agenda aiming to strengthen governance for present and future generations, Deputy Prime Minister and Co-Chair of the Albania-UN Joint Executive Committee Arben Ahmetaj announced that the Albanian Government and the UN system in Albania have agreed on a new Cooperation Framework (CF) which will start this January and run through 2026.
The new Cooperation Framework builds upon Albania’s key priorities, the accession to the European Union and delivering on the national pledge to the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and its nationalized SDG targets, with a focus on the quality of health and education, good governance and rule of law, public service provision, and effective response and recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. It totals an amount of 282 million USD for the full cycle.
In his speech at the signing ceremony, Mr Ahmetaj praised the current cooperation between Albania and UN and pledged continuous support for cooperation with UN: “As we complete a successful cycle of joint work with UN agencies in Albania, we are ready to renew our commitment to sustainable development” – he said.
On behalf of nineteen resident and non-resident UN agencies and programmes in Albania, the UN Resident Coordinator Fiona McCluney reiterated the principal areas of work of the new Cooperation Framework and the urgency of action to deliver on the Sustainable Development Goals: “In the spirit of our joint action is our commitment to fight poverty, promote human rights and gender equality, protect the environment and tackle climate change, support economic and social reforms” she noted (read full speech here).
The UN day is celebrated worldwide on 24 October of each year to mark the anniversary of the entry into force in 1945 of the UN Charter. With the ratification of this founding document the United Nations officially came into being. This year the celebrations of UN day in Albania take place as Albania takes up mandate in the UN Security Council for the next two years.
In the words of Minister of Europe and Foreign Affairs HE Olta Xhaçka, who delivered the keynote speech at the event, the SC mandate “is a prestigious achievement that shows the maturity of Albanian diplomacy and a recognition of the constructive role of Albania in terms of security, stability and development”. HE Xhaçka appreciated the role of the UN system in Albania in taking forward the commitments of the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
Watch a short video showcasing some of the achievements of the Albania-UN cooperation and the way forward:
***
More details on the Albania-UN Cooperation framework for Sustainable Development 2022-2026
On January 1, 2022, a new Albania-UN Cooperation Framework comes into force.
It offers a tremendous opportunity to scale up the implementation of the 2030 Agenda and demonstrate concrete results on the ground for the people of Albania.
This Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (CF) between the Government of Albania and the UN system is anchored by country priorities:
The National Strategy for Development and Integration (NSDI) with nationalized goals and
targets for selected Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
Six priorities of the new Government vision ‘Albania 2030’
Accession to the European Union,
The human rights commitments of Albania and other agreed international and regional development goals and treaty obligations
Strategic Priority A. Human capital development & social inclusion
Outcome A. By 2026, there is increased and more equitable investment in people, removing barriers and creating opportunities for those at risk of exclusion
Strategic Priority B. Sustainable, resilient and green economic growth and resource management
Outcome B: By 2026, innovative and integrated policy solutions accelerate sustainable, productive and inclusive economic development, enhancing climate change adaptation and mitigation and transition to a green and blue economy
Strategic Priority C. Effective, people-centred governance, rule of law, human rights and gender equality
Outcome C1: By 2026, governance is more transparent and accountable, enabling people (women and girls, men and boys, and persons at risk of exclusion) to enjoy quality, inclusive services, enhanced rule of law and access to justice in line with Albania’s human rights commitments
Outcome C2: By 2026, gender responsive governance strengthens equality and non-discrimination, promotes women’s empowerment and human rights, and reduces violence against women and children.
***
Download the Press Release in Albanian
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Speech
15 June 2022
Speech by UNRC Fiona McCluney at the National Conference on the “Common Challenges and new pathways in the fight against corruption: digitalization as an anticorruption tool”
Dear Excellences, Ambassadors, colleagues and friends,
First of all, let me thank Minister Milva Ikonomi for the invite to be a keynote speaker in this Session and for her role as the Minister responsible for organizing this very important Conference.
I am happy to be here with you today on this very important occasion to discuss the results and the necessity for joint work and partnerships in fighting corruption in the Albanian society.
I would firstly like to congratulate the Government of Albania for presenting a complete and encouraging picture of the progress made during 2021 and an honest and realistic situation of the challenges ahead.
UN is happy and proud to have contributed to in fulfillment of key measures related to the fight and prevention of corruption, noting that this contribution has been possible through the partnership with several development partners and close collaboration with central and local government level institutions.
The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) explicitly link corruption and peaceful, just, and inclusive societies.
SDG 16 and its targets of reducing bribery, strengthening institutions, and accessing information are not only valuable aspirations in their own right, but they are also necessary conditions for the achievement of all the 17 goals.
From a human development perspective, people’s freedoms, choices, and opportunities continue to be undermined by corrupt practices that distort income distribution and public expenditure decisions.
Corruption erodes people’s trust in public institutions, undermines the rule of law, impairs the systems of checks and balances, and contributes to violence and insecurity.
For Albania, the fight against corruption is a matter of urgency to strengthen the rule of law. Still, it is also a key priority in the framework of EU integration of the country. Moreover, maintaining integrity and adopting systematic anti-corruption measures are also vital in the context of public administration reforms.
I am glad that in this Session we have an opportunity to look at the specific role of media and civil society in the fight against corruption.
This is such a complex and multi-layered phenomenon; it is crucial to consider different actors and perspectives.
The promotion of an enabling environment is central to good governance and the rule of law. And as we heard from Nick Thus from SIGMA this morning the importance of upward and downward systems of mutual accountability and transparency.
And with enabling environment I also mean independent, free and pluralistic media, as well as active and engaged civil society.
Media and civil society can contribute to ensure transparency and accountability, promote participation in public and political discourse, and foster democratic processes.
They can play a key role in the fight against corruption, including by monitoring and reporting.
However, we should not forget that seeking transparency and accountability might also entail personal risk.
Last 3rd May, on the occasion of World Press Freedom Day, I issued a joint statement with the Head of OSCE Presence in Albania, Ambassador Vincenzo Del Monaco.
We particularly stressed the multiple ways in which journalism is endangered by surveillance and digitally-mediated attacks on journalists, and the consequences on public trust in digital communications.
The digital era has created a fast-evolving environment that while on the one hand has democratized access to information and increased exchanges across borders, on the other it has impacted on the right to privacy and in many circumstances put media workers and their sources at greater risk of being targeted, harassed and attacked.
Therefore, media professionals and journalists need to be protected in order to carry out their essential work freely and safely.
Since digitalization as an anticorruption tool is also a key theme of this Conference, I believe this is an important remark to make.
Now let me turn to a few concrete points regarding what we as UN Albania are doing on anti-corruption.
UNODC, UN office for Drugs and Crime, based in Vienna, in June last year, supported the Western Balkan, including Albania, in the developing and adopting a Regional Anti-Corruption and Illicit Finance Roadmap in June 2021. This strategic document focuses on three key goals/ priority areas for the region:
1) preventing and countering corruption in public procurement, something that was addressed earlier this morning.
2) strengthening understanding of conflict of interest and asset declaration systems and creating a regional network of specialized prosecutors, law enforcement and finally
3) financial intelligence agencies in response to corruption and economic crime.
The roadmap establishes a monitoring and goal setting framework and specific actions and training to further these goals.
The UN Development Programme, UNDP, support in the fight against corruption is particularly visible in the two initiatives, firstly, related to promoting Integrity Plans and secondly, conducting the annual Trust in Governance survey. This work links directly to the role of civil society as well as media, or as we are discussing in this panel, where the power held by ordinary people for accountability through role of civil society and media is considered as an important factor.
Integrity plans include a set of preventive measures against corruption that address identified risks that could favor the corruptive behavior of public servants. integrity plans are intended to establish a culture of public management that puts ethics and integrity as the cornerstones of good governance.
The Institute for Mediation and Democracy from Civil society and the Ministry of Justice, in its capacity of National Coordinator for Anticorruption, were key partners during the piloting of six Integrity Plans and endorsing the risk assessment methodology.
This experience evolved in 2020 with the adoption of the methodology for central public institutions and the development of the integrity planning for the Ministry of Justice, representing the first central institution applying this standard.
UNDP have also supported the further expansion of this practice during 2022 in line Ministries including Education and Sports, Culture, Foreign Affairs, and EU Integration, Infrastructure and Energy, as well as Tourism and Environment and continues to work at the local level to extend the experience of integrity planning in 14 additional municipalities, creating a critical mass for a national standard and compliance.
To date, 14 Municipalities have an approved Integrity Plan from their respective Municipal Councils, and 6 other municipalities are in the finalization phase of their plans.
In addition, UNDP and IDM are working on developing an Integrity Index, which potentially will serve as an instrument for monitoring the level of institutional integrity and anti-corruption performance.
The other UNDP relevant product is the annual Trust in Governance Opinion Poll. The Trust in Governance Opinion Poll carried out since 2013 is an instrument that gives voice to what people think, enabling the monitoring of public trust and perceptions on governance and citizen engagement in Albania on a yearly basis.
Through a well proven methodology it explores public perceptions and attitudes on the trustworthiness of public institutions, institutional transparency, and accountability, corruption, political influence, the level of citizen engagement in policy and decision-making, satisfaction with public service delivery, gender, and social inclusion. Regularly public information that should provide the evidence to see changes in attitudes and perceptions of corruption.
I had a quick look at the surveys, which are online, before completing this speech and interestingly, the media and civil society were perceived to be the main institutions holding the government accountable. The 2021 survey will be published shortly, and I encourage everyone to look to this source of information in highlighting how trends change in perceptions of performance by different institutions. The form of trend analysis, that the Trust in Governance Opinion Poll allow provides a useful source for reporting by media or a reference for civil society in reviewing policy, intervention planning, and implementation and assessing results on the ground.
Thank you for your attention in making these general points. Before turning to my fellow speakers I would once again like to highlight the key role of the media and civil society in progressing on anticorruption agenda noted both in SDG 16 as well detailed work related to Albania’s EU accession path. Indeed, like the guiding question of this session, it is the power held by ordinary people that hold its leaders and institutions accountable, the ‘voice of the ordinary person’ and the media’s investigative role, which are and will continue to be key factors going forward.
Thank you for the opportunity to contribute to this meeting and I look forward to further enriching discussions during this Conference.
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Press Release
25 October 2021
Albania and UN renew commitment to joint work on sustainable development for the next five years
The Government of Albania and the United Nations Country Team in Albania announced their renewed commitment to a joint programme of work for the next five years this Monday, as Deputy Prime Minister Arben Ahmetaj and UN Resident Coordinator Fiona McCluney signed the Albania-UN Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework 2022-2026.
The signing ceremony took place during a dual-themed event marking the 76th anniversary of the UN held at the palace of Brigades in Tirana. The event was hosted by the Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs with the Office of Deputy Prime Minister of Albania and the UN Albania, with participation of key development stakeholders in the country.
In the spirit of the UN Day and the recent launch of Secretary General’s report on Our Common Agenda aiming to strengthen governance for present and future generations, Deputy Prime Minister and Co-Chair of the Albania-UN Joint Executive Committee Arben Ahmetaj announced that the Albanian Government and the UN system in Albania have agreed on a new Cooperation Framework (CF) which will start this January and run through 2026.
The new Cooperation Framework builds upon Albania’s key priorities, the accession to the European Union and delivering on the national pledge to the UN 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and its nationalized SDG targets, with a focus on the quality of health and education, good governance and rule of law, public service provision, and effective response and recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. It totals an amount of 282 million USD for the full cycle.
In his speech at the signing ceremony, Mr Ahmetaj praised the current cooperation between Albania and UN and pledged continuous support for cooperation with UN: “As we complete a successful cycle of joint work with UN agencies in Albania, we are ready to renew our commitment to sustainable development” – he said.
On behalf of nineteen resident and non-resident UN agencies and programmes in Albania, the UN Resident Coordinator Fiona McCluney reiterated the principal areas of work of the new Cooperation Framework and the urgency of action to deliver on the Sustainable Development Goals: “In the spirit of our joint action is our commitment to fight poverty, promote human rights and gender equality, protect the environment and tackle climate change, support economic and social reforms” she noted (read full speech here).
The UN day is celebrated worldwide on 24 October of each year to mark the anniversary of the entry into force in 1945 of the UN Charter. With the ratification of this founding document the United Nations officially came into being. This year the celebrations of UN day in Albania take place as Albania takes up mandate in the UN Security Council for the next two years.
In the words of Minister of Europe and Foreign Affairs HE Olta Xhaçka, who delivered the keynote speech at the event, the SC mandate “is a prestigious achievement that shows the maturity of Albanian diplomacy and a recognition of the constructive role of Albania in terms of security, stability and development”. HE Xhaçka appreciated the role of the UN system in Albania in taking forward the commitments of the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
Watch a short video showcasing some of the achievements of the Albania-UN cooperation and the way forward:
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More details on the Albania-UN Cooperation framework for Sustainable Development 2022-2026
On January 1, 2022, a new Albania-UN Cooperation Framework comes into force.
It offers a tremendous opportunity to scale up the implementation of the 2030 Agenda and demonstrate concrete results on the ground for the people of Albania.
This Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (CF) between the Government of Albania and the UN system is anchored by country priorities:
The National Strategy for Development and Integration (NSDI) with nationalized goals and
targets for selected Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
Six priorities of the new Government vision ‘Albania 2030’
Accession to the European Union,
The human rights commitments of Albania and other agreed international and regional development goals and treaty obligations
Strategic Priority A. Human capital development & social inclusion
Outcome A. By 2026, there is increased and more equitable investment in people, removing barriers and creating opportunities for those at risk of exclusion
Strategic Priority B. Sustainable, resilient and green economic growth and resource management
Outcome B: By 2026, innovative and integrated policy solutions accelerate sustainable, productive and inclusive economic development, enhancing climate change adaptation and mitigation and transition to a green and blue economy
Strategic Priority C. Effective, people-centred governance, rule of law, human rights and gender equality
Outcome C1: By 2026, governance is more transparent and accountable, enabling people (women and girls, men and boys, and persons at risk of exclusion) to enjoy quality, inclusive services, enhanced rule of law and access to justice in line with Albania’s human rights commitments
Outcome C2: By 2026, gender responsive governance strengthens equality and non-discrimination, promotes women’s empowerment and human rights, and reduces violence against women and children.
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Download the Press Release in Albanian
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Story
05 March 2025
Building hope, brick by brick: How a Syrian refugee is shaping his future and his community in Gjirokastër, Albania
In the heart of the city of Gjirokastër, a UNESCO-protected heritage site in southern Albania, Mohammed stands proudly in the main square, pointing at the facades of the buildings he helped restore. "This one," he says with a smile, "I played a part in improving."Mohammed’s journey to this point is one of determination and a deep commitment to his family’s future. Originally from Aleppo, Syria, his path took him through Türkiye and Greece before he found refuge in Albania, where his wife originally comes from.When he arrived in Albania, unable to return to Syria because of the war, Mohammed faced the challenge of starting a new life. "When we arrived, I had nothing - no documents, no clear path ahead," Mohammed recalls. But he was resolved to build a life for his wife and two children.In the quiet municipality of Dropull, Mohammed found both a welcoming community and an opportunity to contribute. He mentions that, once home to several hundred houses, the village had seen many of its younger residents leave to work abroad. “There’s a real need for labour here,” Mohammed explains, noting that only a few dozen homes remain occupied.Equipped with his welding tools and a driven spirit, Mohammed joined local craftsmen working on construction projects. “When there’s a big job, we all come together,” he says, describing a community bound by collaboration.The beginning was difficult, but step by step, Mohammed built a solid reputation. “I worked for someone, delivered good results, and they recommended me to others,” he recalls. “It was through word of mouth and hard work that I earned trust.”However, his journey hasn’t been without challenges. Without the proper legal status, Mohammed’s future in Albania was uncertain for a time. But he didn’t face these obstacles alone. Key members of the local community were instrumental in helping him navigate the legal process. "They were incredibly approachable and helpful," he recalls. "They quickly connected me with the resources I needed and made sure I wasn’t left to figure it out alone."A turning point came when Mohammed was introduced to UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, and its NGO partner, Refugee and Migrant Services in Albania, who guided him through the asylum process. “They helped me understand what needed to be done and what to expect,” he says. “They were with me every step of the way, offering clarity and support.”When Mohammed was granted international protection status by the Government of Albania, he says he experienced a newfound sense of freedom—one that allowed him to connect more fully to Albania. “My family had a car, but I couldn’t even drive it because I didn’t have the proper documents,” he says. “I couldn’t take my kids to school. With this status, I was able to get the permits I needed to start living a more complete life.”Today, Mohammed dreams of expanding his craftsmanship into a workshop, with plans to build on land his family owns near his village. "I want to create a place where I can expand my business, hire more people, and teach them the skills I’ve learned over the years," he shares.His work, spanning plumbing, plastering, masonry, and home repairs, not only supports his family but also contributes to the local economy. Mohammed hopes his two sons, aged 13 and 16, will one day join him in the business after completing their studies. "My older son joins me on weekends and school breaks to learn the trade," he says. "I hope his interest in it will continue to grow."
Despite ongoing paperwork challenges, Mohammed remains focused on his future. "Without the right documents, I can’t open my own business," he says. With continued support from the authorities and UNHCR, Mohammed is making progress toward a solution. While delays persist, largely due to the transition to electronic systems and integration issues between various institutional databases, Mohammed remains hopeful."My family is what keeps me going," he says. "I have my children. They are my strength." As a proud father, Mohammed takes great joy in seeing his children excel both academically and in their musical pursuits. His sons, talented pianists and guitarists, are committed to their studies. "Seeing them succeed in something they love brings me the most joy," he says.While his parents remain in Aleppo and siblings are scattered across Europe, Mohammed dreams of a day when they can all reunite. "Like the old days," he says, his eyes bright with hope.Mohammed’s story shows how refugees, when given the right support, can thrive and contribute to their new communities. With the help of the local community and his own determination, Mohammed has turned challenges into opportunities —not only for himself but for the community he now calls home.
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Despite ongoing paperwork challenges, Mohammed remains focused on his future. "Without the right documents, I can’t open my own business," he says. With continued support from the authorities and UNHCR, Mohammed is making progress toward a solution. While delays persist, largely due to the transition to electronic systems and integration issues between various institutional databases, Mohammed remains hopeful."My family is what keeps me going," he says. "I have my children. They are my strength." As a proud father, Mohammed takes great joy in seeing his children excel both academically and in their musical pursuits. His sons, talented pianists and guitarists, are committed to their studies. "Seeing them succeed in something they love brings me the most joy," he says.While his parents remain in Aleppo and siblings are scattered across Europe, Mohammed dreams of a day when they can all reunite. "Like the old days," he says, his eyes bright with hope.Mohammed’s story shows how refugees, when given the right support, can thrive and contribute to their new communities. With the help of the local community and his own determination, Mohammed has turned challenges into opportunities —not only for himself but for the community he now calls home.
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16 December 2024
Women in business from Albania take center stage at the Women’s Entrepreneurship EXPO satellite event
More than 40 women entrepreneurs participated in the “Women’s Entrepreneurship EXPO 2024” satellite event, held for the second consecutive year in Tirana, Albania, on November 18-19, 2024. Organized in collaboration with the government of Sweden, the British Embassy in Tirana, private sector partners, and the Albanian government, the event aimed to provide women in business with a platform for networking and knowledge sharing. The two-day programme featured sessions on funding strategies for women-led businesses, cost-saving and efficiency tips, digital transformation and e-commerce, and new marketing approaches through artificial intelligence (AI). Kumrije Bejrushi, an artisan business owner specializing in traditional costume embroidery, a business she founded seven years ago, shared that the EXPO provided her with tools for growing her business. “Although I left two days of work to attend the EXPO this year, I gained so much - tremendous satisfaction and a wealth of information that fills crucial gaps we face,” Bejrushi expressed.
Like Bejurshi, many women entrepreneurs have built sustainable businesses through passion, dedication, and sacrifice, supporting their families or fulfilling specific market needs. Data from Albania reflects a positive trend in women entering entrepreneurship. “In Albania, 30 percent of businesses are owned and run by women. While we hope to see more women-led business in the future, women entrepreneurs are already making important contributions to the economic and social development of the country. In addition, the fact that 90 percent of women-led businesses have between one to four employees tells us that women’s economic participation is directly connected to the well-being of the communities they live in”, stated Michele Ribotta, UN Women’s representative in Albania, during the event's launch. Nevertheless, since most businesses run by women are small, family-owned enterprises, this also highlights the challenges they face in growing and scaling their businesses. Supporting women entrepreneurs is a priority for the Albanian government, which is currently negotiating EU membership. “30 percent is a statistic comparable to Europe and many other countries. However, it seems we are stuck at that threshold. This year, we launched a call to support innovative startups. Women comprised 29 percent of the winners, even though we allocated extra points for applications from women. We couldn’t surpass that 30 percent threshold. We must explore new initiatives to ensure progress in these figures next year,” remarked Delina Ibrahimaj, the Minister of Entrepreneurship and Business Climate.
During the two-day EXPO satellite event, six rural women entrepreneurs particularly benefited from EXPO sessions. Meliha Zyberaj, an artisan business owner specializing in traditional costumes from Vau i Dejës, a small municipality in northern Albania, shared that the event was an extraordinary opportunity, especially for rural women, to establish valuable connections and exchange ideas. “We gained tangible benefits for our products. Compared to last year, there was more detailed information on online sales and e-commerce, which are essential tools for advancing our business,” Zyberaj mentioned.
On the other hand, Mukadez Gjona, who runs a traditional products business in Pogradec, shared that over these two days, she connected with companies involved in food distribution. “Over these two days, I exchanged contact details for future collaboration and learned many new things. I also met other artisans from Vau i Dejës, Shkodra, and Gjirokastra,” Gjona concluded. The event was organized by UN Women Albania in close collaboration with key public institutions dedicated to women’s entrepreneurship and startups, the European Bank for Construction and Development, the Women’s Chamber of Commerce, and private sector companies. This satellite event was part of a series of activities within the regional Women’s Entrepreneurship EXPO 2024
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Like Bejurshi, many women entrepreneurs have built sustainable businesses through passion, dedication, and sacrifice, supporting their families or fulfilling specific market needs. Data from Albania reflects a positive trend in women entering entrepreneurship. “In Albania, 30 percent of businesses are owned and run by women. While we hope to see more women-led business in the future, women entrepreneurs are already making important contributions to the economic and social development of the country. In addition, the fact that 90 percent of women-led businesses have between one to four employees tells us that women’s economic participation is directly connected to the well-being of the communities they live in”, stated Michele Ribotta, UN Women’s representative in Albania, during the event's launch. Nevertheless, since most businesses run by women are small, family-owned enterprises, this also highlights the challenges they face in growing and scaling their businesses. Supporting women entrepreneurs is a priority for the Albanian government, which is currently negotiating EU membership. “30 percent is a statistic comparable to Europe and many other countries. However, it seems we are stuck at that threshold. This year, we launched a call to support innovative startups. Women comprised 29 percent of the winners, even though we allocated extra points for applications from women. We couldn’t surpass that 30 percent threshold. We must explore new initiatives to ensure progress in these figures next year,” remarked Delina Ibrahimaj, the Minister of Entrepreneurship and Business Climate.
During the two-day EXPO satellite event, six rural women entrepreneurs particularly benefited from EXPO sessions. Meliha Zyberaj, an artisan business owner specializing in traditional costumes from Vau i Dejës, a small municipality in northern Albania, shared that the event was an extraordinary opportunity, especially for rural women, to establish valuable connections and exchange ideas. “We gained tangible benefits for our products. Compared to last year, there was more detailed information on online sales and e-commerce, which are essential tools for advancing our business,” Zyberaj mentioned.
On the other hand, Mukadez Gjona, who runs a traditional products business in Pogradec, shared that over these two days, she connected with companies involved in food distribution. “Over these two days, I exchanged contact details for future collaboration and learned many new things. I also met other artisans from Vau i Dejës, Shkodra, and Gjirokastra,” Gjona concluded. The event was organized by UN Women Albania in close collaboration with key public institutions dedicated to women’s entrepreneurship and startups, the European Bank for Construction and Development, the Women’s Chamber of Commerce, and private sector companies. This satellite event was part of a series of activities within the regional Women’s Entrepreneurship EXPO 2024
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Story
12 December 2024
Syrian refugee mother of five finds a fresh start with her family in Albania
In 2018, Nour and her family were forced to flee Syria, and she recalls that period as clouded by the chaos of war and filled with pain. "I left Syria in 2018, and I don't remember much because so many things have happened since then. Looking back, all I see is the pain of leaving my country. Facing the war there was very hard for us," Nour says. Now in Albania, her youngest child, Wasein, stays with her while her other four children adapt to a new school, learn a new language, and gradually become part of the community.Nour, a 31-year-old mother of five, recalls the journey that led her family from Syria to Türkiye in 2019, and eventually to Albania, where they sought asylum in September 2023. "We didn’t know much about Albania, so I guess it was fate that brought us here," she reflects. When Nour and her family arrived at the borders of Albania, they were provided with information on the asylum procedures and the support services available by the border authorities and a UNHCR partner, Caritas Albania. They were then directed to the National Reception Centre for Asylum in Tirana, where they stayed temporarily until securing permanent accommodation.The decision to stay was driven by the promise of safety and a stable environment, which Nour and her husband hoped would help them rebuild their lives. She adds, "Of course, the beginning here in Albania was very hard for us all. Being in a foreign country is always difficult. We decided to stay when we saw that Albania has rules and laws, schools, and hospitals. We realized we had the opportunity to find job here. "
Nour and her family have been navigating the complexities of adapting to life in a new country. The language barrier and finding adequate housing for a family of eight, including her five children, husband and sister, have been pressures that weighed heavily on Nour.During this period, the family received support from another UNHCR partner, Refugee and Migrant Services in Albania (RMSA). They were helped to find a decent place to live and received financial assistance to help them cover their rent. The program also provided essential items like bedding and kitchen equipment, making their new home feel more welcoming. Financial aid helped them meet their daily needs, easing their transition into a new life. Additionally, they received help to quickly enrol their children in school, which was a huge relief for Nour. Her children’s progress in school brings Nour a great sense of hope. "My oldest daughter Jud is 12, and she tries to help her younger siblings with schoolwork and the language," Nour shares with pride. Her other three children, including Melek, 11, and twin boys Ahmed and Denes, 9, have started speaking Albanian at school. "It's hard to learn a new language, but they are determined and study both Albanian and English," she explains.Nour herself is committed to learn Albanian, believing it is key to fully settling in her new community. "It’s very hard studying the language while taking care of five kids," Nour admits. "I attend language courses offered at the National Reception Centre for Asylum, but I feel that going twice a week is not enough for me to learn the language. Unlike my kids, I don't have other opportunities to practice, so I find it difficult. I think the best way for me to learn is by communicating with my kids in Albanian and learning from them."
Nour hopes to find job opportunities once she reaches a certain level of proficiency in Albanian. She expresses the desire to have something personal of her own. "Of course, in the kitchen, I would still need some help from other people, but if I ever have the opportunity, I would like to have my own kitchen," she says.She goes on to share her children's aspirations: her oldest daughter wants to be a hairdresser because she likes to work with hair, while her other daughter aspires to be a teacher. Nour adds that her twins have different interests: "Ahmed, who is the most hyperactive one, wants to be a police officer, while his brother Denes loves to build and fix things.""Our kids are always the main priority. All of our attention goes to their future."As Nour navigates the complexities of her new life in Albania, she says her family remains her source of strength. Together, they look towards a future where they hope to offer possibilities to their children, grounded in the community they are slowly but determinedly building around them in Albania.Thanks to the vital support from UNHCR and its partner RMSA, Nour and her family began rebuilding their lives in their new community, accessing services and rights provided by the asylum legislation framework in Albania. This assistance, funded by the European Union and other unearmarked donors of UNHCR, has been instrumental in helping them find this fresh start. , filtered_html
Nour and her family have been navigating the complexities of adapting to life in a new country. The language barrier and finding adequate housing for a family of eight, including her five children, husband and sister, have been pressures that weighed heavily on Nour.During this period, the family received support from another UNHCR partner, Refugee and Migrant Services in Albania (RMSA). They were helped to find a decent place to live and received financial assistance to help them cover their rent. The program also provided essential items like bedding and kitchen equipment, making their new home feel more welcoming. Financial aid helped them meet their daily needs, easing their transition into a new life. Additionally, they received help to quickly enrol their children in school, which was a huge relief for Nour. Her children’s progress in school brings Nour a great sense of hope. "My oldest daughter Jud is 12, and she tries to help her younger siblings with schoolwork and the language," Nour shares with pride. Her other three children, including Melek, 11, and twin boys Ahmed and Denes, 9, have started speaking Albanian at school. "It's hard to learn a new language, but they are determined and study both Albanian and English," she explains.Nour herself is committed to learn Albanian, believing it is key to fully settling in her new community. "It’s very hard studying the language while taking care of five kids," Nour admits. "I attend language courses offered at the National Reception Centre for Asylum, but I feel that going twice a week is not enough for me to learn the language. Unlike my kids, I don't have other opportunities to practice, so I find it difficult. I think the best way for me to learn is by communicating with my kids in Albanian and learning from them."
Nour hopes to find job opportunities once she reaches a certain level of proficiency in Albanian. She expresses the desire to have something personal of her own. "Of course, in the kitchen, I would still need some help from other people, but if I ever have the opportunity, I would like to have my own kitchen," she says.She goes on to share her children's aspirations: her oldest daughter wants to be a hairdresser because she likes to work with hair, while her other daughter aspires to be a teacher. Nour adds that her twins have different interests: "Ahmed, who is the most hyperactive one, wants to be a police officer, while his brother Denes loves to build and fix things.""Our kids are always the main priority. All of our attention goes to their future."As Nour navigates the complexities of her new life in Albania, she says her family remains her source of strength. Together, they look towards a future where they hope to offer possibilities to their children, grounded in the community they are slowly but determinedly building around them in Albania.Thanks to the vital support from UNHCR and its partner RMSA, Nour and her family began rebuilding their lives in their new community, accessing services and rights provided by the asylum legislation framework in Albania. This assistance, funded by the European Union and other unearmarked donors of UNHCR, has been instrumental in helping them find this fresh start. , filtered_html
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Story
10 December 2024
A Syrian refugee family finds a lasting home in Albania
At a gathering hosted by UNHCR’s partner Refugee and Migrant Services in Albania (RMSA) at the National Reception Centre for Asylum in Tirana, the focus was on strengthening family ties through improved communication. During the event, the affectionate exchanges and smiles between a couple, Aisha and Abdelkader, were unmistakable. Their synchronized nods during discussions about easing tensions offered a glimpse into their shared journey as parents.Five years ago, Aisha and Abdelkader fled the conflict in Syria, and a long and challenging journey eventually brought them to Albania. Their two young children, a son of about four years old and a daughter around two and a half years old, accompanied them during this journey. After settling in Albania, they welcomed in their family one more daughter and son. Their two children born in Albanian were granted Albanian citizenship, thanks to adopted legislation on citizenship that offers a possibility to children born in the country to become citizens. Meanwhile, the rest of the family received subsidiary protection.Since arriving in Albania, the family has been supported by UNHCR and its NGO partner RMSA in their journey towards self-sufficiency and integration. From the start, the family enrolled in Albanian language courses, and Abdelkader, showing great dedication, earned an official A2 level certificate from the University of Tirana. Alongside language support, they received housing and financial assistance, which eased their transition into a new life. To further their economic self-sufficiency, Abdelkader was supported to enrol in a skills course and a driving license course, successfully obtaining professional certificates in both. Upon arriving in Albania, Abdelkader held onto hope, though he was uncertain whether this new place could become a lasting home for his family. Shortly after, Abdelkader says he was pleasantly surprised to find a community that reminded him of the unity he experienced in Syria. Reflecting on this, he shares in fluent Albanian, "Here, religion brings us together, it does not divide us. In the neighbourhood where we live - we all live together peacefully, just like we did in Syria. Tirana, with its familiar weather and hospitality, has become a second home for us".Reflecting on their five years in Albania, Abdelkader shares, "Now, my eldest is thriving in second grade, embracing school life and excelling in reading and learning. Meanwhile, my second daughter just started school in September after finishing preschool. Our conversations at home naturally flow in Albanian, a familiar comfort, although we sometimes stumble over pronunciations in both Arabic and Albanian with our youngest." "As our family grows, so do the daily routines and challenges. With four kids to care for, my husband and I navigate the busy waters of parenthood," Aisha adds. Despite her basic grasp of Albanian, allowing for brief conversations, juggling the children's needs leaves Aisha with little time to delve deeper into the language. Abdelkader adds to this, saying, "We support each other, but since I work part-time at a pizza shop, my wife naturally takes on the larger share of childcare and household responsibilities."Looking ahead, as their youngest joins preschool, Aisha says she plans to focus on improving her Albanian and find a job. She adds: "My love for tailoring has been with me since my days in Syria, where I often indulged in it as a hobby. Now that life is settling down here, I'm looking forward to dedicating more time to improving my skills. I'm planning to enrol in a tailoring training course to get a certificate and focus on improving my Albanian. This shift is important for our family as we navigate the need for both of us to start working."When asked about the family's plans for the future, Abdelkader shares, "Of course, our aspirations are closely tied to Albania, where two of our children were born and are nationals. The prospect of living elsewhere has never been a consideration for us."As they look to the future, Aisha and Abdelkader remain hopeful and determined. Their journey from Syria to Albania has been filled with challenges, but their resilience and the support they’ve received have helped them build a new life. With their children thriving and their own plans for further integration and self-sufficiency, the family is optimistic about the road ahead. , filtered_html
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10 December 2024
Human Rights Day 2024: Our Rights, Our Future, Right Now
On this Human Rights Day, the United Nations and European Union in Albania reaffirm that human rights are key to empower individuals and communities and enable them to forge a better tomorrow. Rights and values are critical issues both in Albania’s negotiations for EU membership and in its efforts to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals.
The commitments Albania has made in the context of EU accession negotiations - Fundamentals Cluster - and the five human rights pledges Albania made on the occasion of the 75th anniversary of the Universal Declaration for Human Rights last December, are drivers for fundamental reforms which will positively impact the lives of Albanian citizens. They promise improvements in the Criminal Justice system, improved standards and services for persons with disabilities, increased efforts and results in the fight against corruption, higher standards in the Juvenile justice system, and progress in the empowerment of women and other people suffering discrimination.
Human rights are not mere aspirations; they are the foundation upon which we build a better, more peaceful, and just world for all. In Albania, as in every corner of the globe, upholding human rights means empowering individuals, civil society actors and communities to help them shape a brighter future. As UN Secretary-General António Guterres reminds us, "Human rights are the foundation for peaceful, just, and inclusive societies."
As we pause to celebrate Human Rights Day, we should not simply reflect on and celebrate the progress made together, but also confront the work still ahead. It is time to speak out—against hate speech, against discrimination of any sort, against disinformation, and against any actions that threaten the dignity of the individual. It is time to harness the transformative power of human rights principles to protect the vulnerable, to prevent injustice, to support the crucial work of human rights defenders and to create lasting change in society.
Our Rights, Our Future, Right Now.
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The commitments Albania has made in the context of EU accession negotiations - Fundamentals Cluster - and the five human rights pledges Albania made on the occasion of the 75th anniversary of the Universal Declaration for Human Rights last December, are drivers for fundamental reforms which will positively impact the lives of Albanian citizens. They promise improvements in the Criminal Justice system, improved standards and services for persons with disabilities, increased efforts and results in the fight against corruption, higher standards in the Juvenile justice system, and progress in the empowerment of women and other people suffering discrimination.
Human rights are not mere aspirations; they are the foundation upon which we build a better, more peaceful, and just world for all. In Albania, as in every corner of the globe, upholding human rights means empowering individuals, civil society actors and communities to help them shape a brighter future. As UN Secretary-General António Guterres reminds us, "Human rights are the foundation for peaceful, just, and inclusive societies."
As we pause to celebrate Human Rights Day, we should not simply reflect on and celebrate the progress made together, but also confront the work still ahead. It is time to speak out—against hate speech, against discrimination of any sort, against disinformation, and against any actions that threaten the dignity of the individual. It is time to harness the transformative power of human rights principles to protect the vulnerable, to prevent injustice, to support the crucial work of human rights defenders and to create lasting change in society.
Our Rights, Our Future, Right Now.
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Press Release
07 March 2025
OpEd: Promoting women’s leadership and participation in the next political elections is key for Albania
The general elections of May 11, 2025, are an important opportunity to strengthen democracy in Albania and consolidate past achievements in advancing women’s leadership in decision-making. While Albania has made remarkable progress in promoting women’s political participation at the central level, - recognized by international community and human rights mechanisms – challenges remain. According to the 2025 ranking of the Inter Parliamentary Union, Albania currently holds the 44th position globally in terms of women in Parliament. However, sustaining and expanding these gains requires additional measures to ensure meaningful participation, prevent regression and foster more progress.Ahead of the campaign, and before candidate lists are finalized, the United Nations in Albania has engaged with political parties and other actors, advocating for full and meaningful participation of women in central elections, and presenting a set of recommendations in five key areas.1. Enforcing and Exceeding Gender Quotas The UN urges political parties to rigorously uphold the 30% gender quotas for multi-name lists (both fixed order and preferential voting), as mandated by the Electoral Code. However, Albania has the potential to go beyond the minimum quotas and move toward equal representation (50/50 parity) between women and men in decision making. Achieving true diversity in terms of equal access to and equal power within decision-making systems is essential. Certain groups of women remain systematically excluded from political processes, due to lack of opportunities. Political Parties must ensure the participation of all women, including those from underrepresented groups—such as women with disabilities, Roma and Egyptian women, young women, and rural women. This aligns with Albania’s international commitments under CEDAW, the National Strategy for Gender Equality (NSGE), and the Gender Equality Law (GEL).2. Ensuring Political Party Support for Women Candidates
Strong support from the party leadership is essential for women meaningful participation in politics- not because women are incapable of winning elections, but because systemic gender barriers persist in traditionally male-dominated sphere. Political parties must actively promote women candidates by ensuring (i) equal access to campaign resources, political training , and leadership opportunities; (ii) internal monitoring and accountability mechanisms to track progress in gender equality (iii) fair advancement within party structures based on merit- free from gender bias and necessary arrangements for work-life balance. 3. Addressing Financial Disparities in Campaign Funding
Equal financial treatment is critical for women candidates. The Albanian electoral law does not regulate the internal financial distribution of public or other private funds among party candidates leaving women at a disadvantage. Many women candidates, lack equal access to campaign financing due to structural barriers and gendered stereotypes about fundraising. To prevent financial discrimination, political parties should (i) adopt internal regulations ensuring equal access to campaign funds for women candidates and (ii) ensure full transparency in fund distribution within parties.4. Countering Gender Bias, Harassment and Violence in Politics
Women candidates face disproportionate levels of harassment and bias both within political parties and in the media. Political parties should not tolerate the use of derogatory language, gender stereotypes and any form of gender-based violence in elections against women (and men) opponents. These issues are further exacerbated by the media (online and social media). A 2021 UN Women media monitoring report revealed that traditional and social media consistently undermined women candidates in Albania’s national elections. In addition, a study conducted by UNDP confirmed that women politicians are more likely than men to experience psychological violence. Human rights bodies have called on Albania to (i) strengthen mechanisms to prevent hate speech, harassment and threats against women candidates, (ii) require to political parties to adopt codes of conduct to promote gender equality and combat harassment, (iii) hold social media companies accountable for discriminatory user-generated content. Media outlets and the Audiovisual Media Authority must play an active role in ensuring equitable media coverage and eliminate sexist narratives.5. Increasing Women’s Voter Turnout and Electoral Influence
Political parties must engage both men and women equally, recognizing that women make up a large share of the electorate. In the 2021 national elections women constituted 48.07% of total voters, yet only 44.99% of eligible women cast their ballots. This lower turnout may not indicate a lack of political interest but rather systemic barriers to participation, as well as safety concerns. To address this, political parties should develop (i) gender sensitive electoral programs that include addressing challenges and priorities of women and girls from all socio-economic backgrounds (ii) ensure that women can vote freely, free from coercion, intimidation and family voting practices.Globally, as well as in Albania, women have fought for - and won - the right to vote, to work, to lead. This year international women day marks 30 years from the historic world conference on women and the plan of action that emerged from the Beijing Summit, where the world made a promise: women’s rights are human rights. The next Parliamentary elections are an opportunity to show the country’s resolve not to step back on gender equality, but instead to march forward for all women and girls. Ensuring women’s full participation in politics is not just a women’s issue: it’s a societal and democratic imperative! Advancing women’s leadership in decision making and elected bodies is key to Albania’s democratic development and progress towards the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Women and men alike must reject the notion of women as passive spectators and work together to create a political system built on equal opportunities. By sustaining and advancing women in decision-making, we actively contribute to a more just and equal country for all Albanians.
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Strong support from the party leadership is essential for women meaningful participation in politics- not because women are incapable of winning elections, but because systemic gender barriers persist in traditionally male-dominated sphere. Political parties must actively promote women candidates by ensuring (i) equal access to campaign resources, political training , and leadership opportunities; (ii) internal monitoring and accountability mechanisms to track progress in gender equality (iii) fair advancement within party structures based on merit- free from gender bias and necessary arrangements for work-life balance. 3. Addressing Financial Disparities in Campaign Funding
Equal financial treatment is critical for women candidates. The Albanian electoral law does not regulate the internal financial distribution of public or other private funds among party candidates leaving women at a disadvantage. Many women candidates, lack equal access to campaign financing due to structural barriers and gendered stereotypes about fundraising. To prevent financial discrimination, political parties should (i) adopt internal regulations ensuring equal access to campaign funds for women candidates and (ii) ensure full transparency in fund distribution within parties.4. Countering Gender Bias, Harassment and Violence in Politics
Women candidates face disproportionate levels of harassment and bias both within political parties and in the media. Political parties should not tolerate the use of derogatory language, gender stereotypes and any form of gender-based violence in elections against women (and men) opponents. These issues are further exacerbated by the media (online and social media). A 2021 UN Women media monitoring report revealed that traditional and social media consistently undermined women candidates in Albania’s national elections. In addition, a study conducted by UNDP confirmed that women politicians are more likely than men to experience psychological violence. Human rights bodies have called on Albania to (i) strengthen mechanisms to prevent hate speech, harassment and threats against women candidates, (ii) require to political parties to adopt codes of conduct to promote gender equality and combat harassment, (iii) hold social media companies accountable for discriminatory user-generated content. Media outlets and the Audiovisual Media Authority must play an active role in ensuring equitable media coverage and eliminate sexist narratives.5. Increasing Women’s Voter Turnout and Electoral Influence
Political parties must engage both men and women equally, recognizing that women make up a large share of the electorate. In the 2021 national elections women constituted 48.07% of total voters, yet only 44.99% of eligible women cast their ballots. This lower turnout may not indicate a lack of political interest but rather systemic barriers to participation, as well as safety concerns. To address this, political parties should develop (i) gender sensitive electoral programs that include addressing challenges and priorities of women and girls from all socio-economic backgrounds (ii) ensure that women can vote freely, free from coercion, intimidation and family voting practices.Globally, as well as in Albania, women have fought for - and won - the right to vote, to work, to lead. This year international women day marks 30 years from the historic world conference on women and the plan of action that emerged from the Beijing Summit, where the world made a promise: women’s rights are human rights. The next Parliamentary elections are an opportunity to show the country’s resolve not to step back on gender equality, but instead to march forward for all women and girls. Ensuring women’s full participation in politics is not just a women’s issue: it’s a societal and democratic imperative! Advancing women’s leadership in decision making and elected bodies is key to Albania’s democratic development and progress towards the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Women and men alike must reject the notion of women as passive spectators and work together to create a political system built on equal opportunities. By sustaining and advancing women in decision-making, we actively contribute to a more just and equal country for all Albanians.
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Press Release
04 March 2025
Call for Volunteers: Join the United Nations Youth Advisory Group in Albania!
Are you passionate about youth activism, supporting young people’s voice in policy development jointly with United Nations? Do you want to engage in activities led by the UN Agencies in Albania, focusing on fostering and promoting the SGDs with young people for young people?
We’re looking for young people to join the third cohort of the UN Youth Advisory Group (UNYAG) for a two-years term.
If you want to make a change, engage voluntarily and comply with the following criteria, we would love to hear from you: Criteria for Selection:• Active engagement in youth activism or working with vulnerable groups in the past 2-3 years at a national or local level.
• Strong commitment to creating positive change for and with young people in Albania.
• Past experiences in representing youth voices in local, national and international platforms.
• Have some command and basic proficiency of English language. Full ToRs can be found hereWhat to Submit (in English):
1. Your CV
2. A letter of interest outlining your cause, why it matters, and how it can be solved by working with UN Agencies in Albania
3. A short 60 second video presenting yourself and the motivation for being part of the UN YAG. Criteria for the video: mp4 format and shared through google drive (with open access).
4. Two reference letters (from someone who has worked with you or has good knowledge of your work on youth engagement).
Deadline for Applications: March 15, 2025 – 17.00 HRSSend to: registry.al @un.org Be a voice for the youth in Albania and help shape the future! Apply now and make an impact! , filtered_html
We’re looking for young people to join the third cohort of the UN Youth Advisory Group (UNYAG) for a two-years term.
If you want to make a change, engage voluntarily and comply with the following criteria, we would love to hear from you: Criteria for Selection:• Active engagement in youth activism or working with vulnerable groups in the past 2-3 years at a national or local level.
• Strong commitment to creating positive change for and with young people in Albania.
• Past experiences in representing youth voices in local, national and international platforms.
• Have some command and basic proficiency of English language. Full ToRs can be found hereWhat to Submit (in English):
1. Your CV
2. A letter of interest outlining your cause, why it matters, and how it can be solved by working with UN Agencies in Albania
3. A short 60 second video presenting yourself and the motivation for being part of the UN YAG. Criteria for the video: mp4 format and shared through google drive (with open access).
4. Two reference letters (from someone who has worked with you or has good knowledge of your work on youth engagement).
Deadline for Applications: March 15, 2025 – 17.00 HRSSend to: registry.al @un.org Be a voice for the youth in Albania and help shape the future! Apply now and make an impact! , filtered_html
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Press Release
27 February 2025
Round Table: Promoting women's participation in the May 2025 elections
The key points of discussion included women's involvement in politics, gender equality in candidate lists for parliament and municipal councils, and the language used in electoral campaigns. The roundtable brought together representatives from political parties, civil society, international organizations working in the field of elections, and election experts. With the parliamentary elections approaching, the State Commissioner of Elections, Mr. Ilirjan Celibashi, emphasized that the deadline for political parties and electoral coalitions to submit their multi-member lists is approaching. This will provide insight into how political parties approach gender representation—whether they will adhere to the quotas established by the Electoral Code or go beyond them and improve upon them.He stressed that we are not yet where we need to be, calling on political parties to take steps to improve conditions for women’s participation in the campaign for the parliamentary elections on May 11, 2025. These steps should include increasing financial support for women, providing access to party campaign funds, granting television time, and other resources.Mr. Celibashi also highlighted that, despite the legal improvements made to enhance women’s participation in elections, gender equality in political representation has not yet been achieved. "The most significant issue is observed after local government elections, where women resign one after another and are replaced by men from the list. This is also confirmed by statistics—85 women have resigned from municipal councils, and all the women on the multi-member lists of 11 political parties were withdrawn."Ms. Fiona McCluney, UN Resident Coordinator in Albania, stated, "To fully achieve Sustainable Development Goal 5, it is not enough just to increase women’s representation. Their meaningful participation in political processes must also be ensured. This requires eliminating structural barriers, ensuring equal access to leadership roles, and creating an enabling environment for women’s political empowerment. Over the years, Albania has made remarkable progress in promoting women's political participation, both at the central and local levels. However, past achievements do not guarantee continuous progress. There are still challenges in ensuring genuine political participation for women in Albania, and therefore, we must protect the progress we have made, prevent setbacks, and continue advancing gender equality. The role of political parties in promoting gender equality is crucial, especially as we approach the general elections."Representatives from political parties discussed their strategies for increasing women’s participation in politics and decision-making, as well as the challenges they face in accessing media coverage and campaign financing.Additionally, participants drew attention to the hate speech and defamation directed at women on social media., filtered_html
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Press Release
04 March 2025
UNECE: Empowering Inclusion through the Integration of Gender Perspectives in Quality Infrastructure for Trade in Albania
On February 17th and 18th, 2025, the UNECE presented the project "Empowering Inclusion through the Integration of Gender Perspectives in Quality Infrastructure for Trade" in Tirana.The meeting was attended by the UN Resident Coordinator in Albania, UN Women Representative and representatives of Albania's Ministry of Economy, Culture, and Innovation (MEKI), the Directorate General of Accreditation (DPA), the Directorate General of Metrology (DPM), and the Directorate General of Standardization (DPS), which are part of the three pillars of quality infrastructure. Ms. Enida Llaka and Mr. Edvin Zhllima, experts from the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), discussed the importance of Quality Infrastructure in economic development and EU membership, the role of women in ensuring quality, and the significance of translating ISO 53800:2024 “Guidelines for Promoting Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment.”ISO 53800:2024 is important for addressing gender inequalities and discrimination in various fields. It aims to promote a culture of gender equality and encourages gender equality as a fundamental human rights issue. Other participants included Ms. Rachel Miller, project manager at ISO, who presented the concept of ‘Gender Integration’ and discussed ‘Gender Inclusion in the Standard Development Process.’Additionally, Ms. Adriana Martinis, project manager at CEN&CENELEC, emphasized the importance of the project and CEN&CENELEC’s strategy on gender inclusion and equality in the policy-making and technical activities of CEN&CENELEC and standardization bodies more broadly.Mr. Ergi Bregasi, an expert at UNECE, and Mr. Ariel Ivanier, Head of the Market Access Section (UNECE), spoke about gender perspectives in trade policy and standards.At the conclusion of the meeting, the panelists highlighted the importance of gender inclusion in standard development and discussed the challenges and opportunities for gender integration in quality infrastructure., filtered_html
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Press Release
23 January 2025
EU and UNOPS Launch the EU4Digital Justice project: “Support to the Rule of Law through Digital Transformation”
Tirana - Today, the European Union and UNOPS officially launched the new EU-funded project EU4Digital Justice: “Support to the Rule of Law through Digital Transformation”. The event at the Europe House premises, gathered high level representatives from the Ministry of Justice, General Prosecutor Office, High Judicial Council, the Information Technology Center for the Justice System (IT Center), the Swedish Embassy and other key stakeholders. This transformative initiative aims to assist Albania's EU accession process by strengthening the rule of law and increasing trust in the justice system in Albania through digital innovation.With a budget of EUR 7.5 million, the 4-year project aims to address critical challenges in Albania’s justice system, including outdated processes, fragmented case management, and limited use of technology.
The EU Ambassador to Albania, Silvio Gonzato, UNOPS Albania AND Kosovo Country Manager, Sabine Kania, Minister of Justice, Ulsi Manja, General Prosecutor, Olsian Cela and representatives of relevant Albanian institutions, attended the launching ceremony. The EU Ambassador to Albania, Silvio Gonzato said: “The EU for Digital Justice project is an important milestone in the process of implementation of the reform of the Justice sector in Albania. This is also a key requirement under Cluster 1, which sets the pace for Albania's EU membership negotiations. The establishment of a modern case management system, in line with EU standards, will help Albanian judicial institutions to improve their performance. Through this project and the overall support of the EU to Albania’s justice reform, has a main objective: providing Albanian citizens with a quality and efficient public service of justice.” Sabine Kania, UNOPS Albania & Kosovo Country Manager said: "With this project, we aim to create seamless integration of systems, processes and data through digitalization in the justice sector - this will be the technological foundation to modernize the justice system, strengthen the rule of law and ultimately also build greater trust in the legal institutions." Ulsi Manja, Minister of Justice said: “Our path towards the EU is based on a radical transformation of the justice system, as one of the main pillars of the rule of law. This vision of the government and our parliamentary majority, forged with the irreversible reform of justice, continues to be strongly supported by our strategic partners, the EU and the US, who have brought us today to another important station – the beginning of the construction of digital justice.”
Olsian Çela, General Prosecutor said: "The world has already entered the digital age, which is characterized by a rapid development of technology, so the challenge of this project will be not only to set up an efficient and effective management system that responds to current needs, but to see the future, enabling its effectiveness over a long period of time."By introducing a unified digital case management system for the Prosecutor’s Office and advanced data analytics tools to support transparent and data-driven decision-making, the project will strengthen coordination and accountability. Additionally, it aims to assist in improving the IT Center’s capacity to lead and implement digital reforms across the justice sector to achieve interoperability between different judiciary institutions. This project is expected to contribute to the achievement of concrete results in the judicial reform, provide legal professionals, the public and civil society with faster, more transparent and accessible justice services.The innovative EU4Digital Justice project will provide the technological foundation necessary to drive long-term improvements and support Albania’s EU integration journey by modernizing and digitizing the justice system.
***Note to the EditorsAbout EU4Digital JusticeThe EU4Digital Justice project, implemented by UNOPS and funded by the European Union under IPA III with a budget of EUR 7.5 million, aims to transform Albania’s justice system through digital innovation. Over 48 months, the project will establish a modern Case Management System for the Prosecutor’s Office, enhance the Information Technology Center for the Justice System capacity and implement Business Intelligence tools for data-driven decision-making. This initiative seeks to strengthen the rule of law, improve institutional efficiency, and provide faster, more transparent justice services aligned with the EU standards.About the European Union in Albania
The European Union is Albania’s biggest development partner, providing over EUR 100 million annually in grant assistance to support the Albanian people and help Albania adopt and implement key political, institutional, social, and economic reforms to comply with EU values and progressively align with its rules. Further information on EU-funded projects in Albania and EU-Albanian cooperation can be found at https://www.eeas.europa.eu/delegations/albania_enAbout UNOPS
UNOPS mission is to help people build better lives and countries achieve peace and sustainable development. We help the United Nations, governments and other partners to manage projects, and deliver sustainable infrastructure and procurement in an efficient way. Read more: www.unops.org
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The EU Ambassador to Albania, Silvio Gonzato, UNOPS Albania AND Kosovo Country Manager, Sabine Kania, Minister of Justice, Ulsi Manja, General Prosecutor, Olsian Cela and representatives of relevant Albanian institutions, attended the launching ceremony. The EU Ambassador to Albania, Silvio Gonzato said: “The EU for Digital Justice project is an important milestone in the process of implementation of the reform of the Justice sector in Albania. This is also a key requirement under Cluster 1, which sets the pace for Albania's EU membership negotiations. The establishment of a modern case management system, in line with EU standards, will help Albanian judicial institutions to improve their performance. Through this project and the overall support of the EU to Albania’s justice reform, has a main objective: providing Albanian citizens with a quality and efficient public service of justice.” Sabine Kania, UNOPS Albania & Kosovo Country Manager said: "With this project, we aim to create seamless integration of systems, processes and data through digitalization in the justice sector - this will be the technological foundation to modernize the justice system, strengthen the rule of law and ultimately also build greater trust in the legal institutions." Ulsi Manja, Minister of Justice said: “Our path towards the EU is based on a radical transformation of the justice system, as one of the main pillars of the rule of law. This vision of the government and our parliamentary majority, forged with the irreversible reform of justice, continues to be strongly supported by our strategic partners, the EU and the US, who have brought us today to another important station – the beginning of the construction of digital justice.”
Olsian Çela, General Prosecutor said: "The world has already entered the digital age, which is characterized by a rapid development of technology, so the challenge of this project will be not only to set up an efficient and effective management system that responds to current needs, but to see the future, enabling its effectiveness over a long period of time."By introducing a unified digital case management system for the Prosecutor’s Office and advanced data analytics tools to support transparent and data-driven decision-making, the project will strengthen coordination and accountability. Additionally, it aims to assist in improving the IT Center’s capacity to lead and implement digital reforms across the justice sector to achieve interoperability between different judiciary institutions. This project is expected to contribute to the achievement of concrete results in the judicial reform, provide legal professionals, the public and civil society with faster, more transparent and accessible justice services.The innovative EU4Digital Justice project will provide the technological foundation necessary to drive long-term improvements and support Albania’s EU integration journey by modernizing and digitizing the justice system.
***Note to the EditorsAbout EU4Digital JusticeThe EU4Digital Justice project, implemented by UNOPS and funded by the European Union under IPA III with a budget of EUR 7.5 million, aims to transform Albania’s justice system through digital innovation. Over 48 months, the project will establish a modern Case Management System for the Prosecutor’s Office, enhance the Information Technology Center for the Justice System capacity and implement Business Intelligence tools for data-driven decision-making. This initiative seeks to strengthen the rule of law, improve institutional efficiency, and provide faster, more transparent justice services aligned with the EU standards.About the European Union in Albania
The European Union is Albania’s biggest development partner, providing over EUR 100 million annually in grant assistance to support the Albanian people and help Albania adopt and implement key political, institutional, social, and economic reforms to comply with EU values and progressively align with its rules. Further information on EU-funded projects in Albania and EU-Albanian cooperation can be found at https://www.eeas.europa.eu/delegations/albania_enAbout UNOPS
UNOPS mission is to help people build better lives and countries achieve peace and sustainable development. We help the United Nations, governments and other partners to manage projects, and deliver sustainable infrastructure and procurement in an efficient way. Read more: www.unops.org
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