What does local government need to become stronger, more autonomous, and better prepared for European integration? This was one of the key topics discussed at the conference “Advancing Local Government Reform in the Western Balkans,” organized by SIGMA and NALAS, in collaboration with the Association of Municipalities of Albania (SHKBSH) and international partners. 🤝 Representatives from central and local government, experts, and international partners discussed decentralization, local finance, inter-municipal cooperation, and the role of municipalities in European integration. 🎙️ Adelina Farrici, Executive Director of the Association, emphasized the importance of dialogue between central and local government, as well as the Association’s work in developing recommendations regarding the Territorial-Administrative Reform. 🏛️ Emiriana Sako, Co-Chair of the Association and Mayor of Durrës, highlighted the need to transition from formal to effective decentralization—ensuring that competencies, funding, capacities, and decision-making autonomy go hand in hand. 🇪🇺 European integration begins at the local level as well. Municipalities will play a significant role in implementing European standards and must be equipped with clear competencies, adequate resources, and the necessary capacities. 🙏 Thank you to SIGMA, NALAS, the EU, the SDC, and all our partners for their cooperation and support. #NAMA #NALAS #SIGMA #LocalGovernment #EUIntegration #Decentralisation