On July 10, 2024, the vibrant city of Shkodra played host to a momentous event—the closing conference of the EU-funded project, EU4Municipalities. Implemented by the Network of Associations of Local Authorities of South-East Europe (NALAS), the event marked the culmination of a three-year journey that significantly bolstered local governance in Albania.

The EU4Municipalities program, supported financially by the European Union, directly impacted 19 municipalities through infrastructure interventions, service improvements, and capacity-building initiatives at the local level. The project saw a substantial investment of €1.7 million, resulting in the reconstruction of 24 public buildings, the creation or enhancement of 68 public services, and benefiting over 49,332 citizens, including 32,993 youths.

The closing conference was graced by notable dignitaries, including the EU Ambassador to Albania, Silvio Gonzato; Minister of State for Local Governance, Arbjan Mazniku; Executive Director of NALAS, Kelmend Zajazi; Executive Director of the Association for Local Autonomy, Adelina Farrici; and the Mayor of Shkodra, Benet Beci.

Key Highlights from the Conference

Ambassador Silvio Gonzato emphasized the critical role of local governments in the EU integration process, stating:

“The role of local government in the EU integration process is extremely important. Approximately 70% of the implementation of all EU legislation and standards happens at the local level. Thus, local authorities become the custodians of EU standards at the local level. To do this successfully, they need to increase their capacity to absorb EU funds, strengthen inter-municipal and regional cooperation, and engage with civil society, entrepreneurs, youth groups, and local communities. This is why the EU has supported 19 municipalities with investment grants worth €1.7 million, in line with the needs of local citizens. The results have been transformative, enhancing municipal staff capacities and providing improved infrastructure and services in education, social inclusion, culture, environmental protection, youth empowerment, and local economic development.”

While thanking NALAS for the successful partnership and implementation, Ambassador Gonzato also announced continued EU support for local governments with a significantly increased budget of €10 million for the next phase of the EU4Municipalities program, set to begin in 2025, providing additional grants for the benefit of municipalities and citizens.

Minister Arbjan Mazniku expressed gratitude for the EU’s ongoing support:

“EU4Municipalities has been a crucial exercise, not only for the technical support aspect, such as the much-needed and beneficial trainings and capacity-building for municipalities regarding EU projects. The program is also important because it is the first-time direct grants have been provided to finance cross-sectoral changes for municipalities.”

Kelmend Zajazi, Executive Director of NALAS, highlighted the project’s impact on citizens:

“We have demonstrated and provided citizens with the local standards of public service delivery. By doing this, we are keeping hope alive for the younger generation that EU membership is just a step away.”

Adelina Farrici, Executive Director of the Association for Local Autonomy, reflected on the importance of direct grants:

“As an association, we have consistently advocated to donors that municipalities should have a direct impact and apply directly for funds. Not only capacity building but also having grants available. EU4Municipalities was the first model that has successfully concluded.”

Looking Ahead

The EU4Municipalities closing conference not only celebrated the achievements of the past three years but also set the stage for future successes. With the promise of an expanded budget and more grant opportunities, the program aims to continue fostering sustainable development and improving the quality of life for all citizens in Albania.

The closing conference was a testament to the collective efforts of the EU, NALAS, and local governments in Albania. The commitment to enhancing local governance and service delivery has set a robust foundation for the next phase of EU4Municipalities, ensuring that ‘Europe is Here’ for all Albanians.