Launch of “Strengthening Local Institutional Capacities on Migration in Albania” Project
IOM Albania, with support from the UK Government, has launched the project “Strengthening Local Institutional Capacities on Migration in Albania,” a new initiative focused on empowering local governments to manage migration and diaspora matters effectively.
This project aims to strengthen the capacities of Albania’s local and central institutions to promote employment opportunities for internal migrants, support the reintegration of returned migrants, and encourage investments from the Albanian diaspora.
The launch event, organized in close collaboration with the Minister of State for Local Government, Arbjan Mazniku and the Agency for the Support of Local Self-Governance, saw participation from all 61 municipalities of Albania, the British Embassy, and key international and local stakeholders involved in migration governance.
In his opening remarks, Minister Arbjan Mazniku emphasized the importance of supporting returned migrants in reintegrating into local communities, where their investments and businesses contribute not only to their own success but also to the economic and social growth of the local communities where they settle.
Deputy British Ambassador Mia Marzouk expressed her support for the project and its innovative approaches to migration management. She underscored that cooperation between local governments, businesses, and citizens is key to the project’s success in achieving sustainable change.
IOM Albania Head of Office, Alma Jani, also stressed the importance of inter-institutional cooperation, which will play a critical role in creating a solid foundation for migration governance at the municipal level. This includes developing operational procedures for migration and diaspora engagement, as well as offering training to local public officials. By equipping municipalities with these tools, the project aims to prepare them to address migration challenges and contribute to the well-being of their communities.
Through initiatives such as Inter-municipal Pacts for Employment and annual labor fairs, the project will support municipalities in securing job opportunities, promoting fair working conditions, and building skills for internal migrants and youth.
With a strong focus on youth engagement and community-driven solutions, the project aims to shift the narrative on migration in Albania, one that highlights the positive contributions of migration to Albania’s socio-economic development.
