Albania

Albania has potential: Tourists are discovering the scenic attractions of the country while administrative reforms and vocational training initiatives are taking effect. Albania has been assigned official EU candidate status in June 2014. In spring 2020, the European Union decided to open the accession talks with Albania. The Austrian Development Agency (ADA) assists Albania in converging national standards with EU guidelines, especially within the areas of public administration, human rights and the water sector, while also helping in advancing regional development in the country

Managing water resources in a sustainable way

Albania has an abundance of natural water resources. An integrated management of such a valuable resource is necessary in order to ensure its sustainable and long-term use. Austria and the EU provide assistance, in developing and implementing management plans of select river areas.

STEPPING UP VOCATIONAL TRAINING

ADA supports its partner country in building a professional vocational training system that reflects the requirements of the labor market and takes into account businesses' needs. Austria and Albania concentrate on modernizing vocational training as well as combining school education and on-the-job training.

Additional priorities of Austrian Development Cooperation in Albania lie within the areas of good governance, inclusive regional development and strengthening the rule of law. Gender equality and social inclusion, in combination with environmental protection and climate change, are essential cross-cutting themes.

Albania has been a priority country of Austrian Development Cooperation since 1992.