Throughout March 2024, IOM has been actively engaged in a series of impactful meetings in Tirana and field visits to Gjirokastra, Konispol, Devoll, Kukes, Durres and Shkodra aimed at addressing the needs of migrants in Albania. These events, ranging from discussions with key local and international stakeholders to field visits in various regions, underscore the commitment to proactive identification and effective management of migration challenges.

On March 5th, Ms. Alma Jani, the IOM Albania Head of Office (HoO), had the honor of meeting with the Ambassador of Germany in Albania, H.E. Mr. Karl Bergner. The discussions centered around migration-related dynamics and explored potential cooperation in addressing migration governance challenges in Albania.

On March 6th our HoO traveled to Kukes where we had a productive meeting between IOM representatives and the Mayor of Kukes Municipality, Mr. Albert Halilaj. This was followed by engaging discussions with the technical staff of the Social Services and Child Protection Unit, highlighting the collaborative efforts between IOM and local authorities in addressing migration-related issues. A significant aspect of these interactions was the emphasis on Protection, Assisted Voluntary Return and Reintegration, and Displacement Tracking Matrix. Standard Operating Procedures are being developed for IOM Mobile Teams operating across Albania, tailored to specific local contexts, aiming to address key protection challenges in managing migration.

The commitment to fostering partnerships was further demonstrated by attending the employment, education, and career counseling fair "Invest in North," organized by the British Embassy in Tirana in cooperation with the British Chamber of Commerce in Albania. This event provided a platform for individuals seeking job opportunities in the Kukes area and beyond to interact with UK and Albanian employers, exploring new avenues for employment and education.

March 7th saw constructive discussions with H.E. Ms. Ruth Huber, Ambassador of Switzerland in Albania, focusing on potential areas of alignment in addressing migration challenges through coordinated efforts and partnerships.

On March 12, we had the pleasure of welcoming representatives of the Canadian Embassy in Italy, where the ongoing cooperation between IOM and the Government of Canada was discussed. This included the resettlement of Afghan evacuees and the services offered by the Canadian Visa Application Center in Tirana run by IOM, underscoring the importance of international collaboration in addressing migration challenges.

On March 13th, a fruitful conversation took place with the Executive Director of the Albanian Helsinki Committee, addressing human rights and migration issues in Albania. The dialogue emphasized the ethical recruitment of migrant workers and the importance of upholding the rights and dignity of all migrants within society.

With Gjirokastra, Konispol, Shkodra and Devoll, IOM concluded a month of impactful meetings with local stakeholders, addressing migrants' needs in Albania. 

Discussions with the Mayor of Konispol Mr. Ergest Dule, the Deputy Mayor of Shkodra Mr. Onid Bejleri, the Mayor of Devoll Mr. Eduard Duro and technical meetings with social services and child protection units focused on Protection, Assisted Voluntary Return and Reintegration, Displacement Tracking Matrix.

In summary, March has been a month marked by proactive engagement, collaboration, and meaningful discussions aimed at addressing migration challenges in Albania through sustained partnerships and efforts, towards a society where the rights and dignity of migrants are respected and upheld.