UNHCR and Mediterranean University of Albania Formalise Academic and Research Cooperation on Refugee Protection

Tirana, Albania – UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, and the Mediterranean University of Albania have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) establishing a framework for cooperation in research, education, training, and knowledge exchange related to refugee protection, asylum, and statelessness.

The MoU recognises the Parties’ mutual interests in research, development, education, training, and the dissemination of knowledge, and provides a framework for joint participation in projects and initiatives of shared interest. Through this agreement, the Mediterranean University of Albania joins UNHCR’s network of institutional partners contributing to academic engagement and learning on refugee protection.

Cooperation under the MoU includes the development of joint projects, research initiatives, seminars, workshops, webinars, and other academic activities. It also foresees the reciprocal exchange of information and resources, including research materials, publications, textbooks, and professional references.

The partnership further allows for cooperation in organising legal clinics or academic courses for students, with the aim of strengthening their knowledge and capacities in international refugee law and related principles applicable to asylum-seekers and refugees.

At the signing ceremony, Toshitsuki Kawauchi, UNHCR Representative in Albania, highlighted the value of academic collaboration in advancing understanding of refugee protection. “Academic institutions play an important role in research, education, and dialogue on refugee protection and international law. This agreement formalises our cooperation with the Mediterranean University of Albania in these areas,” the Representative said.

Prof. Dr. Adrian Civici, Rector of the Mediterranean University of Albania, underlined the university’s role in education and social engagement. “This cooperation provides a structured framework for engaging students and academic staff in learning and research related to refugee protection and international legal principles,” the Rector said.

Through this framework agreement, UNHCR and the Mediterranean University of Albania aim to strengthen academic cooperation and knowledge dissemination related to refugee protection, asylum, and statelessness in Albania.