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Decentralization in Action – A key theme for #EnlargementDays!
In the context of Albania’s European journey, decentralization plays an essential role in building functional local institutions, close to citizens and aligned with EU standards.
The Albanian side was represented in the panel by Mr. Gledian Llatja, Mayor of Elbasan, who among other things said:
“Since the Territorial Reform of 2015, important steps have been taken to strengthen local government. The National Strategy for Decentralization 2023–2030 marks a clear commitment to a more efficient, inclusive and equitable local government throughout the territory.
Four municipalities have been included in a pilot project for horizontal decentralization and measuring their performance – an initiative that directly contributes to increasing transparency, accountability and better provision of public services.
However, challenges are present: the delegation of responsibilities has not always been accompanied by the transfer of services or sufficient financial resources. Capacity improvement is needed to ensure quality services in every corner of the territory, especially in the most remote areas.”
Strengthening local government through decentralization is an integral part of the EU accession process – a joint project that is being built every day with citizens and for citizens.