In Albania, HELVETAS Swiss Intercooperation introduces democratic processes in eight municipalities and strengthens their management skills to build democratic and effective institutions. It also finances small infrastructure projects like street lightening and river channeling to allow the municipalities to put their newly acquired skills into practice.
Promoting decentralisation and local governance in Albania
During the first phase of the project, municipal strategic plans were formulated with councilors’ and citizens’ participation. The second phase emphasized on the use of these plans for decision-making, budgeting and concrete actions. Building or natural resources exploitation permits for example have been delivered in accordance to urban, land use and zoning plans. The location of infrastructure projects has also been respected in these plans. This has allowed for an optimum use of land and an efficient and effective use of public investment. The capacities of municipalities to realize quality infrastructure has increased as a result of the on the job training provided by the investment fund operated by the project.
A significant effort has also been made to strengthen municipal capacities for financial management, administration, the collection of taxes and the provision of public services. Improved waste management systems were introduced, as well as one-stop-shops that allow citizens to get information and administrative services quickly and without bribes.
Recently lessons learnt have been shared between partner municipalities. The Association of Albanian municipalities is associated with these activities and uses them in its dialogue with the government for the national decentralization policy.
A significant effort has also been made to strengthen municipal capacities for financial management, administration, the collection of taxes and the provision of public services. Improved waste management systems were introduced, as well as one-stop-shops that allow citizens to get information and administrative services quickly and without bribes.
Recently lessons learnt have been shared between partner municipalities. The Association of Albanian municipalities is associated with these activities and uses them in its dialogue with the government for the national decentralization policy.
Project impact 2011
575 people attended a course on decentralisation, democratization ând local administration. 3 development plans at village, district and provincial levels were developed in a participatory manner.