By Adelina Farriçi, Executive Director of the Association for Local Autonomy

The European Union (EU) is a long-time supporter of policies promoting decentralization, strengthening local governance, and empowering local communities in Albania. Within this vision, the EU project for Municipalities, through financial support, implements innovative projects aimed at developing local government capacities, increasing the quality of services and public infrastructure, as well as the inclusiveness of local communities. The Association for Local Autonomy, being part of the implementation of the project, has supported and promoted the main role played by each municipality in this effort for community development.
This spirit of cooperation not only strengthens the municipalities involved but also enriches the community and brings it closer to the European perspective.

Editorial by Marie Augouy, Program Manager for Regional and Local Government, Delegation of the European Union in Albania

EU4M is the first EU initiative in Albania to offer financial opportunities for investments to Municipalities exclusively. To assume effectively tasks and responsibilities of a future EU Member State, it is essential to have empowered local governments, capacitated local administrations and active citizens, social groups and businesses.