ISSUE No.

63, Monthly Newsletter - October 2012

A Joint Effort of the Department of Strategy and Donor Coordination and the Donor Technical Secretariat
www.dsdc.gov.al www.aidharmonisation.org.al

Photo: On 5 October 2012, on the occasion of the 20th anniversary of the World Bank Group activity in Albania, the World Bank Office in Tirana organized a conference to celebrate the long partnership with Albania

World Bank and Albania are working together to advance Albanias development and EU integration agenda

n 5 October 2012, on the occasion of the 20th anniversary of the World Bank Group activity in Albania, the World Bank Office in Tirana organized a conference to celebrate the long partnership with Albania. The conference took stock of the many-folded contribution of the World Bank to the countrys economic, human, and institutional progress. Present there were Prime Minister Sali Berisha, members of the cabinet, project beneficiaries, representatives from the private sector, civil society, media, development partners, etc. Albania became a member of the World Bank Group in 1992 and the World Bank has been one of countrys key main sources of development support along this amazing 20-year journey. Since then, the Bank has financed 71 projects totalling over US$ 1.2 billion. Throughout the past years, the World Bank Group has been able to as-

sist Albania technically, financially, and through policy advice on virtually every aspect of its development needs. Participants in the conference pointed out that common successes are many and joint policy work has been critical to the successful transformation of the country in terms of financial sector development, business environment, and economic management. Participants in this conference pointed out the constructive cooperation of the World Bank with successive governments and all the stakeholders, the impact of the financed projects for sustainable growth in its road towards EU integration. Speakers of different panels in the conference commended key World Bank projects which had strong developmental impact and affected positively the life of the people in the countryside and the towns, students in school, vulnerable groups, farmers, private sector, etc. From

the investment perspective, there have been obtained countless visible results. Widely referred to as a development success story and one of the fastest growing countries in Europe in World Bank reports, Albania is an excellent example of an effective and fruitful partnership between a country and our institution,said Philippe H. Le Houerou, World Bank Vice President of Europe and Central Asiain his greeting note.As in every partnership, both parties have been learning, changing, and adapting to new realities. In her remarks, Jane Armitage, Country Regional Director for Southeast Europe said that it has been immensely satisfying to partner with Albania technically, financially, and through policy advice, on many aspects of its development needs. Our support to Albania builds on the Banks

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In this issue
World Bank and Government of Albania are working together to advance Albanias development and EU integration agenda New Country Director for the Swiss Cooperation Office In The Uncensored Brussels! EU-funded new pre-trial detention centre in Elbasan and a new VET School in Elbasan The Future We Want campaign tops UN day celebrations Government preparation in response to the Global Survey on ICPD post 2014 USAID Albania Supports Conference on Independent Financial Regulators USAID Albania Inaugurates PROTIK ICT Resource Centre Census of Agricultural Holdings 2012 Sustainable Integrated Tourism in the Kora Region: a Value Chain Approach USAID Supports Kora Apple Festival UN staff run for womens rights in first Tirana International Marathon Swiss Government contributes 3.3 million US Dollar to the Social Care Reform Ombudsman Conference on the Childrens Rights in Albania Disability Draft Act consulted with partners and interest groups Older persons play a crucial role in society Better opportunities for Roma and Egyptian Communities Water Regulatory Authority presents Utility Performance Awards 2011 Visit of the Director General of the Italian Development Cooperation, Minister Plenipotentiary Elisabetta Belloni High Level Conference on Decentralisation New Regional Development Grant Fund USAID Promotes Dialogue on Fiscal Decentralization in Albania New Programme Activities on Tax Transparency and Simplification Roundtable on Corporate Governance Sparks Interest among Private Companies Climate Change Action Day Visit of Italian Cooperation Director to the Buna River protected area South East European Law School network Supporting Parliament`s role in EUIntegration Canada Fund for LocalInitiatives in Albania

long experience in working in developing countries all over the world. Over the past 20 years, both Albania and the World Bank have expanded partnerships with other multilateral and bi-lateral development institutions and non-government players as the key for keeping abreast of new ideas and experience, and both have placed trust into the EU integration process as the best facilitator of Albanias continued economic and social progress. After 20 years full of achievements and lessons, we are better prepared to work together on the next phase of Albanias development and EU integration agenda, said Kseniya Lvovksy, Country Man-

agerof the World Bank Office in Tirana, - and I look forward to celebrating the countrys future successes.A youth photo competitionwas organized announced recently on the occasion of the 100 anniversary of Albanias independence, and the 20 year partnership of Albania and the World Bank. During the activity the winners of this competition were also announced.On this occasion the World Bank has produced the booklet Albania and World Bank 20 Years of Working Together, based on compilation of information from various World Bank Group reports and staff.

Donor Profiles
New Country Director for the Swiss Cooperation Office
As of August 2012 the Swiss Cooperation Office in Albania (SCO-A) has a new Country Director. Holger Tausch has taken over the duty of leading the SCO-A after former director Isabel Perich took on the job of Country Director of the Swiss Cooperation Office in Belgrade, Serbia. In August 2012 Holger Tausch arrived in Albania to take over the role of Country Director for the Swiss Cooperation Office. His predecessor, Isabel Perich took up the position of Swiss Cooperations Country Director in Belgrade, Serbia after a one-year tenure in Albania. Mr. Tausch brings with him a wealth of development work experience that includes a recent five-year position as Senior Advisor at the World Bank in Washington, DC. His work there focused on supporting the strategic management of the World Bank with a view of keeping a balance between Swiss interests and the group of vote. He was also involved in carrying out critical analysis on WB programmes in Latin America and SouthEast Asia. Before that he was a Senior Advisor at the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC) in charge of strategic monitoring and evaluation with a particular emphasis on aid effectiveness. Mr. Tausch joined the SDC as early as 1991 working as a junior professional in Nicaragua. As Country Director of the Swiss Cooperation Office in Albania he will be leading the process of developing the new country strategy of this office covering the next four year period, 2014-2017. Mr. Tausch speaks fluent French, German, English and Spanish.

Photo: New Country Director of the Swiss Cooperation Office in Albania, Holger Tausch

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In The Uncensored Brussels!

This is a story of four Albanian journalists having a study visit at EU audio-visual services in Brussels and in the same time experiencing the emotions of the positive recommendations of European Commission Progress Report 2012 on Albanian progress, and In the same time emotions of the Day of Nobel Prize for Peace awarded to the European Union, as one of the defining concepts of the last half century thatfor over six decades contributed to the advancement of peace and reconciliation, democracy and human rights in Europe.

Photo: Albanian journalists during a study visit at EU audio-visual services in Brussels

Nothing is served on a silver plate in Europe, unless it is deserved! You grasp this message in every hallway of the European Parliament and European Commission; on meetings with people who have given a large contribution those European countries without the status receive it. In this process, the member states open the negotiation procedures and candidate states receive the status based on merits alone. In this moment, member states wont make the same costly mistakes as with Rumania and Bulgaria, at least not again. EU officials admitted, muttering, how they tolerated and served on a silver plate an easier integration process for these countries. This was a costly decision for Europe! After receiving the member state status, the reforms became less intensive in these two countries. From this moment on, the integration process for other southeast European countries became stricter. The Unions opinion is that countries should be well prepared before their accession to Europe, taking into consideration that the process of dealing with the others will be consuming at a time when Europe is burdened with its own economic problems. Therefore, the positive proposal from Brussels was merited and merited were the conditions. There might not be similar cases of countries receiving a conditional candidate status, but Albania should work on fulfilling the conditions imposed by the Commission. Four days of stay in Brussels suffice to un-

derstand the general trend of how the relationships with Tirana are built. Being in the position of a journalist, we were free to ask about everything, often receiving a diplomatic answer, however with clear dosages of sincerity. Being careful not to blame one political side or the other about the conditional status (sometimes we ought to use this term), Brussels officials refer to the example of Croatia. A country that in 2013 is expected to become an EU member state, has such a political maturity that issues related to integration process, are not mingled with internal political debate and power gaining debate. Compared to Croatia, Albania has gone the opposite way, which brought the status denial twice, and now that we have a positive answer, it is conditional because of politics. In the meetings with chairmen of the most important European Parliament groups, Mr. Kukan and Svoboda, repeatedly we were told that the speed, with which Albania will walk toward Europe, depends on accomplishment of the reforms. This information was already known and the answers to what we dont know can be found in Tirana. What is on Brussels hands is to say yes when the country has received a positive feedback regarding the reforms completions. Four days of stay in Brussels can teach so much even on a simple walk. The patience a pedestrian waits for the traffic light to turn green, walk on pedestrian and not on the bike section, everything witnesses civilization. The point is not to make you think this was our first

visit to Brussels, but in such a crucial moment for Albania, all these seemingly small details get printed on ones mind, because we need this reference for our country. We had a taste of Brussels also by closely seeing the relation Brussels had with the media. An entire structure, free of charge, functioning on behalf and for Brussels, made possible by the European Unions TV Information Service in the European Commission and European Parliament Audiovisual Unit. All the Medias benefited from these services, whether they had a pro or against opinion about EC or EP. What matters the most is the Medias freedom. Our journalists visit coincided with an important moment for European Union itself, the receiving of the Nobel Peace prize. According to the daily Christian Science Monitor this was a very controversial moment that rose up many analysts reactions on why the EU, being in recession and on the edge of Euro zone split, received this prize. The same newspaper would give the answer to this controversy. The Norwegian Nobel committee wanted to induce some dosage of optimism to Europe, which has had its successes on the past. We aspire for integration and hope integration process will start soon for all those 96% of Albanians (we hope the figure has not changed) who aspire for European Integration. The rest 4% who do not want European Integration, most surely are politician and militants blindly trusting the ones speaking who represent their names.

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Inauguration of a new VET School in Elbasan

On 1 October 2012, the Prime Minister Sali Berisha and the Head of the Delegation of European Union, Ambassador Ettore Sequi, inaugurated the secondary vocational school Salih eka in Elbasan. The inauguration ceremony saw also the participation of the Minister of Education and Science, Myqerem Tafaj and Mayor of Elbasan Qazim Sejdiu, Director of the School, Rudina Mita, teachers and pupils from the school. This investment is part of a long-term programme the EU is supporting in the VET sector. The EU is dedicating 8,2 million since 2006 for the physical infrastructure of VET Schools and centres. These funds are being spent to either rehabilitate or to newly construct vocational schools and their outdoor spaces (Kamez, Bushat, Shkodra, Lezha, Elbasan, Durres, Fier, Vlora and Korca).With these investments in the field of vocational education infrastructure, the EU overall aim is to improve employability of the Albanian youth, by providing proper spaces where they can acquire the needed skills to become the labour force that Albania requires. In his speech, the Prime Minister said that education, and especially the vocational education is one of the Governments priorities, noting that profilisation of high school increases the probability of employment in the country and beyond borders. PM Berisha said that this year there has been an increase in the registration of students in vocational schools around the country, to he extent of 23% compared with the last academic year, with Elbasan being on the first place with an increase of registration by 35% compared with the last year. Ambassador Sequi said that professional education prepares students for the job market. From Elbasan, head of EU diplomacy, has called on the students to pursue vocational secondary education. In the city of Elbasan, the EU Delegation is contributing with 1.0 million to the construction of this new centre with a capacity for 720 students and a total built area of 3,800 square meters. With this building, working environment of high standards will be provided both for teachers and students.

Photo: Mayor of Elbasan Qazim Sejdiu, Prime Minister Berisha, Minister of Education and Science, Myqerem Tafaj and the Head of the EU Delegation, Ambassador Ettore Sequi, during the inauguration of the secondary vocational school Salih eka in Elbasan, on 1 October 2012

Photo: Prime Minister Berisha and Head of the EU Delegation, Ambassador Ettore Sequi at during the inauguration of the secondary vocational school Salih eka in Elbasan, on 1 October 2012

Ambassador Sequi and Minister Halimi inaugurate the construction of the EUfunded new pre-trial detention centre in Elbasan
The Head of the Delegation of the European Union, Ambassador Ettore Sequi and Minister of Justice, Eduard Halimi, attended on 2 October 2nd 2012 the inauguration of the EU funded new Pre-Trial Detention Centre in Elbasan. Delivering an address at the event, Ambassador Se-

qui stated the importance of this project on strengthening of the rule of law and penitentiary reform in Albania. It is now up to Albania to demonstrate its capacity to move to the next stage of EU integration, in particular by improving the rule of law, said Ambassador Sequi on his address. The new centre, with a capacity of 120 detainees, was designed, built and furnished with a grant of 4.8 million euro from the IPA 2007 Programme. It provides accommodation for men, juveniles and women pre-trial detention inmates, doctor facilities, visitors area, administra-

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tion, leisure facilities, workshops, offices, laundry, kitchen etc. The works comprise the construction of seven new buildings, with a total area of 7000 m2 of construction. Strengthening the capacity of the Albanian Judicial and Penitentiary system, in accordance with EU and international standards is one of the key aims of the EUs cooperation with the Government of Albania in the Integration Process. Both parties agree on an adequate improving of the capacity and quality of pre-trial detention facilities, thus respecting the human rights of the pre-detainees, improving their living conditions and reducing overcrowding in cells. The EU has been a partner in the progress marked in the sector. Indeed, significant investments have been made to develop the infrastructure and the human resources of the penitentiary system in Albania. A total amount of around 60 million Euro have been invested in Albania in the recent years to improve living conditions, and treatment in places of detention, through the construction of new penitentiary infrastructures, training of prisons staff and civil society actions.
Photo: The Head of the EU Delegation, Ambassador Ettore Sequi and Minister of Justice, Eduard Halimi, during the inauguration of the EU funded new Pre-Trial Detention Centre in Elbasan

The Future We Want campaign tops UN day celebrations

On the occasion of UN Day 2012, the United Nations in Albania launched the Future We Want Campaign with the students of the journalism department at the Faculty of History and Philology, Tirana University. This campaign, launched by the UN is rooted in the power of peo-

ples dreams to invoke a sustainable future that is worth creating, drawing forth the deepest potentials of all citizens of the world. To this end, UN has initiated a large consultation exercise entitled The Future We Want in at least 50 countries across the globe. Albania is one of them. The campaign will contribute to the development of the post-2015 international development agenda. The voices and priorities of citizens, civil society groups, and independent experts will influence the design of the renewed agenda. The national consultations in Albania will be organized around the three mutually reinforcing themes of youth employment, inequalities and environmental sustainability. These consultations will be conducted through citizen panels with the aim to capture the voices of the poor and marginalized, of children, youth and women. UN Resident Coordinator in Albania, Zineb Touimi-Benjelloun, said during the

UN Day Ceremony: Today, on UN Day, we are pleased to launch in Albania the national consultations for the international development agenda which will take us all beyond 2015. It will certainly take time and patience to reach a consensus around a renewed global development agenda but we are confident of its results. The UN will be employing new technologies to hold a global conversation with citizens around the world, asking them what kind of world they want to live in and what actions should be taken. All these views from the people of Albania will be inputted to the global platforms before the end of March next year. To celebrate UN Day, the Municipality of Tirana and the UN country team planted 21 trees in the main pavement at 28 Nentori Street, which symbolize 21 years of UN Presence in Albania. The United Nations Country Team hosted an official ceremony participating UN part-

Photo: On the occasion of UN Day 2012, the United Nations in Albania launched the Future We Want Campaign with the students of the journalism department at the Faculty of History and Philology, Tirana University.

Photo: Prime Minister Berisha, Parliament Speaker, Jozefina Topalli and UN Resident Coordinator in Albania, Zineb Touimi-Benjelloun, during the UN Day Ceremony

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ners such as government representatives, members of Parliament, representatives of international organizations, civil society, academia and the media. UN Resident Coordinator in Albania, Zineb Touimi-Benjelloun, recalled that: This year we celebrate UN day in a country marking its centenary of independence and coming closer and closer to achieving its EU integration goal. We know now that Albania is irreversibly on the path towards a political, social, cultural and economic union which has at its roots peace among nations and prosperity of peoples values that are also at the core of the United Nations. Congratulations to Albania and to its people. Every year on UN Day, we renew our resolve to do more, to make sure that all countries of the world irreversibly achieve by end 2015, the Millennium Development Goals, with the overarching objective to reduce by half world poverty, reverse global warming, protect children and empower women. Led by the Government of Albania and building on the strengths of the twenty participating UN agencies, programmes and funds, the UN in Albania supports national priorities and development challenges of the country in the areas of governance, the rule of law, economy and environment, regional and local development and inclusive social policies. The programme supports Albania in its European Integration Agenda.

Photo:UN Women Representative in Albania, Semia Solange Guermas De Tapia, hands over medals and prizes to the women winners of the semi-marathon

UN staff run for womens rights in first Tirana International Marathon

On 21 October 2012, over 3000 runners from Kenya, Kosovo, Finland, France, Italy, Poland, the United States, Serbia and Switzerland participated in the first Tirana International Marathon. Prime Minister, Sali Berisha, and the Mayor of Tirana, Lulzim Basha, greeted the participants and welcomed the organization of such an important sport event in Tirana. The United Nations in Albania supported the Marathon and used this opportunity to campaign for womens rights and gender equality. Information materials on gender equality were distributed to all registered runners. A group of UN staff ran for womens rights taking this opportunity to ad-

vocate for gender equality in Albania and in the world. UN Volunteers hold a booth at the Marathon Expo on Skanderbeg Square. The UN resident Coordinator in Albania, Zineb Touimi-Benjelloun welcomed the organization of an inclusive international sport event in Tirana that promoted equal rights for all. UN Women Representative in Albania, Semia Solange Guermas De Tapia, handed over medals and prizes to the women winners of the semi-marathon. The Tirana Marathon aimed to promote a set of social, cultural, educational, sporting, economic and ecological values to the national and international community. The event was organized by the Municipality of Tirana, on the occasion of

the celebration of the centenary of independence of Albania. Several institutions such as: Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports, Ministry of Defense, Ministry of Interior, Ministry of Education, the Albanian Olympic Committee, the Albanian Federation of Sport for All and many other organizations supported this event.

P reparation of the questionnaire in response to the Global Survey on ICPD post 2014
During the month of October, the Government embarked on the process of completing the questionnaire in preparation for the International Conference on

Photo: Meeting organised with representatives from ministry responses and civil society to validate the answers of the questionnaire in response to the Global Survey on ICPD post 2014

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Population and Development (ICPD) after 2014. Most recent resolutions of the General Assembly no. 65/234 of 2010, commits UNFPA, in collaboration with Member States, to take on ICPD Global Survey process post 2014. Completion of this questionnaire is an important step towards fulfilling the obligations arising from participation in the UN International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD) held in Cairo in September 1994, and a series of UN resolutions followed in the consolidation process. Albania, as a member of the Cairo Conference, has ratified the 2006-2010 ICPD action plan between the Council of Ministers and the UNFPA (approved by Law no. 9638, 9.11.2006). At global level, the second step of the process of ICPD is UNECE presentation and discussion of a regional report on the Geneva Conference in 2013. Meanwhile, for the year 2014 is provided for the development of a global conference, which will be presented Global Report by the Secretary General of the United Nations. The process for completing the questionnaire was coordinated by DSDC in collaboration with line ministries and with the support of UNFPA. Questionnaire is important as it represents not only the performance of Albania and achievements in the implementation of the Plan of Action of the ICPD and beyond, but also contributes to the discussion on the review of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) beyond 2015. For the preparation of the questionnaire were organized two meetings, where the first meeting consisted of launching the process with the central institutions. The second relates to the validation and consultation with representatives from ministry responses and civil society (about 50 NGOs consulted). Main areas where the focus questionnaire related to issues such as family, health, education, welfare of individuals (especially those in need), gender equality and empowerment of women, urbanization, migration and sustainable economic development in general. When designing the questionnaire were reflected all officially income contributions from line ministries, as well as civil society. Meanwhile, the questionnaire responses were compared with relevant documents produced by institutions such as EU Questionnaire 2010, or other reports.

Photo: International finance experts from EU and Balkan countries participated in panel discussions and presented case studies on issues related to autonomy and accountability of regulators, the impact of the financial crisis, and ways to foster the development of financial industry in developed and developing countries. (Photo Credit: USAID Albania)

USAID Albania Supports Conference on Independent Financial Regulators

On 31 October 2012, Prime Minister Berisha, the Head of the EU Delegation of Albania, Ambassador Ettore Sequi, and USAID/Albania Mission Director, Jim Barnhart, delivered remarks at the opening of an international conference on the independence of financial regulators. The purpose of the conference was to discuss growing evidence that independent regulators make regulations more effective and lead to smoother and more efficient operations of the market. International finance experts from EU and Balkan countries participated in panel discussions and presented case studies on issues related to autonomy and accountability of regulators, the impact of the financial crisis, and ways to foster the development of financial industry in developed and developing coun-

tries. USAID co-organized the conference with Albanias Financial Supervisory Authority (FSA). Former Commissioner of the New Jersey Department of Banking and Insurance, Ms. Holly Bakke, delivered the keynote address.

USAID Albania Inaugurates PROTIK ICT Resource Centre

On October 10, USAID and the Ministry of Innovation and ICT officially opened Albanias PROTIK ICT Resource centre. PROTIK was created as a public-private initiative with the cooperation of the Government of Albania, USAID, the Albanian-American Development Foundation (AADF), Microsoft Albania, Cisco, and Albtelecom. PROTIK will support the development and use of ICT innovations for small and medium enterprises and promote ICT sector growth in Albania. Photo

Photo: Minister of Innovation and ICT, Mr. Genc Pollo, the U.S. Deputy Chief of Mission, Mr. Henry Jardine, the Chairman of the AADF, Mr. Michael Granoff, and representatives from Microsoft and Albtelecom at the opening ceremony today for the PROTIK ICT Resource center (Credit: USAID/Albania).

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Caption: Minister of Innovation and ICT, Mr. Genc Pollo, the U.S. Deputy Chief of Mission, Mr. Henry Jardine, the Chairman of the AADF, Mr. Michael Granoff, and representatives from Microsoft and Albtelecom at the opening ceremony today for the PROTIK ICT Resource centre.

Census of Agricultural Holdings 2012

With EUs and Swedens assistance, INSTAT carried out the Census of Agriculture Holdings in October 2012, in cooperation with MAFCP (Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Consumer Protection), Ministry of Interior, and other GoA Institutions. The operation marks a new key step towards the alignment of Albanian statistics with EU standards, after the Economic Enterprises Census (EEC, 2010) and the Population and Housing Census (PHC, 2011). Enumeration activities ended as scheduled on October 31st; census materials are at present returning to INSTAT Headquarters for the start of data processing. As a measure of quality assurance, in line with international standards, INSTAT implemented a Post Enumeration Survey in November 2012. The census questionnaire and manual are the final output of a long process of elaboration carried out by the competent INSTAT - MAFCP technical group in the period June 2010 June 2012, aimed at ensuring the maximum level of consistency with the relevant EUROSTAT requirements, taking into account the needed adaptations to the national context. Methodological assistance was provided by IPA 2007 project Support for alignment of Albanian Statistics with EU standards implemented by ISTAT Italy in cooperation with Statistics Sweden (SCB), and Consortium for Development of Innovative Methodologies for the Public Administration (MIPA, Italy). It is expected that the final results of the agriculture census will be published by the end of 2013.They will allow establishing a Statistical Farm Register as frame for sector sample surveys, and will provide a reliable and detailed basis for informed policy and investment decision making. Moreover, since the census of agriculture utilised the PHC 2011 as

Photo: Two-day Kora Apple Festival organized in Manurisht village in Proger

the main source for identifying its target units and adopted the PHC Enumeration Areas, the databases of the two censuses are technically linked: this paves the ground for elaborating cross-cutting indicators and analyses, useful for government planning and policy-making in the broader perspective of the development of the Albanian rural sector. Consistently with the current approach of the Common Agriculture Policy, this if for the European Union a crucial area of cooperation with the GoA and in particular with the MAFCP, where the second phase of the second phase of the project Support to Agriculture and Rural Development has recently started under IPA 2011, with a fund of 10 million Euro.

Sustainable Integrated Tourism in the Kora Region: a Value Chain Approach

The GIZ-EDEP programme has started the Integrated Tourism Value Chain Initiative (ITVCI) in the Kora region to promote innovative networking among public and private actors in the tourism sector and to identify together possible gaps within the tourism value chain. The goal was to cooperate with actors, who are interested and participate in the implementation of concrete initiatives only. During the kick-off event in spring 2012, local stakeholders defined strengths and weaknesses of each link of tourism value chain in the Kora region. Based on this joint analysis, four specific value-chain initiatives were identi-

fied for support; two short-term microprojects, the Kora Food Festival, which has been successfully completed and the Sign Posting, which is underway; whereas the two medium-term projects, i.e. Kora Region Touristic Packages and the Souvenir Contest, will run from November 2012 to June 2013. The first completed project that derived from the value-chain workshop, the Kora Food Festival, engaged thirtyone businesses, 19 restaurants and 12 pizzerias, which came together and decided to offer their menus at a promotional price on each Wednesday of the week.. The project lasted from May to September 2012 and was monitored by the Kora Municipality. This initiative attracted Koras inhabitants to have more restaurant meals, enriched Kora city life and promoted traditional and local gastronomy. There was an increase in the menu sales from week to week and the monitoring group noted that the Food Festival stimulated local participation in dining and provided for additional income opportunities for restaurant owners. Hence, social networking and contacts among the local population increased and business growth was stimulated, which would ultimately lead to a greater number of job opportunities in the restaurant businesses.

USAID Supports Kora Apple Festival

On 13 October 2012, USAIDs Albanian Agriculture Competitiveness (AAC)

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program in collaboration with the Koras Regional Directorate of Agriculture organized a two-day Kora Apple Festival in Manurisht village in Proger. The event aimed to promote apples as a produce-mark of the Kora region. More than 200 apple growers, traders, and processors participated in the activities which included an apple judging contest, a tour of the Muso Brothers Apple Orchard and cold storage facility, and a seminar on how to support the future development of Koras apple industry. USAID has assisted farmers in the region for the past five years to improve the production, marketing, and competitiveness of Koras apples.

Photo: On the left, Mrs. Denada Seferi, Policy Director of Social Services, in the center, Mr. Kastriot Sulka Deputy Minister of Labor Social Affairs and Equal Opportunities and Mr. Detlef Palm, UNICEF Representative, on the right Mr. Holger Tausch, Country Director, Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation in Albania

United Nations Staff Donates Blood

On 22 October 2012, on the eve of the United Nations Day, the UN volunteers and the World Health Organization, in cooperation with the Albanian Red Cross and the Albanian National Blood Bank Team, organized a blood donation in the UN premises.The President of the Albanian Red Cross Mr. Shyqyri Subashi, present at the event, thanked the UN for its commitment to voluntary blood donation. Ms. Yesim Oruc, UNDP Country Director in Albania said I gave blood today. There is no one single reason why: Everyday, there is someone, a child perhaps, or a teenager in car ac-

cident or a mother needing a transfusion. Their lives depend on voluntary blood donations. According to the World Health Organization, every country needs to have a well-coordinated national blood service to ensure adequate and safe supply of blood for all patients that require transfusion. The best way that countries can assure a reliable, safe blood supply is to obtain 100% of blood donations from voluntary, unpaid donors.In Albania, blood stocks in medical centres and hospitals are low. There is an urgent need to raise awareness on voluntary blood donation. For several years, efforts have been made to pass from traditional regularly paid blood donations to voluntary non remunerated blood donations. The UN encourages voluntary blood donation in Albania and worldwide.

Swiss Government contributes 3.3 million US Dollar to the Social Care Reform
The Government continuous its reform of the Social Care Services. The effort is now supported by a USD 3.3 million grant from the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation in Albania provided through UNICEF, as a contribution to the UN Government of Albania Programme of Cooperation. A press conference was organized at the UNICEF office on 4 October 2012 to present the initiative, which is expected to be conducted over the next three to four years. The reform of social care services is part of the on-going reform of the social protection system managed by the Ministry of Labour, Social Affairs and Equal Opportunities. The initiative is meant to improve the efficiency of the social protection system and the quality of social services for vulnerable groups, including those from Roma populations and children. The reform aims to ensure that social protection works for the most vulnerable members of society. Support provided by the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation in Albania through UNICEF, also in collaboration with other development partners working in the area, will include technical assistance for policy analysis, data collection and research, modelling and assistance for capacity building measures. The reform will rely on the coordina-

Photo: MsLinda Aitio, United Nations Volunteer and Ms Roberta Gentile, UNDESA Fellow

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tion with and cooperation of several other ministries, including the Ministry of Finance, Ministry of Interior, Regional Councils, Regional Needs Assessment and Service Planning Committees, local government units, civil society organizations representing vulnerable groups of people, institutions offering social care services, and other development partners.

Ombudsman Conference on the Childrens Rights in Albania

From 23 to 24 October 2012, the Ombudsman Conference of French speaking countries was held in Tirana. Participants discussed how to strengthen competencies of mediators and ombudsmans vis-avis the protection of the rights of children. The conference was opened by Dr. Sali Berisha, Prime Minister; Ms. Christine Moro, French Ambassador; Mr. Igli Totozani, Ombudsman, Prof. Serigne Diop, President of AOMF, Mediator of the Republic of Senegal and Mr. Dominique Baudis, General Secretary of AOMF, Ombudsman of France. Mr. Detlef Palm, UNICEF Representative mentioned that the language of children rights should be universally understood. He emphasized the need to strengthen national institutions that deal with childrens rights. In the rush to increase the Gross Domestic Product, children are often asked to take the back seat, and children need string national institutions that are on their side. He pointed at the necessity to improve the distribution of growth and welfare benefits, and stressed that more equitable societies are better for everyone - both the well-to-do and the poor. He mentioned that Childrens issues are often thought of as family issues, which the families are responsible for getting sorted out, and which require minimal State interventions. However, where the families are unable to cope, the Convention on the Rights of the Child obliges State Parties to provide support so that children are adequately protected and supported. The presentation of Albanias legal and institutional framework related to the protection of the rights of the child attracted the attention of the participants. To have a fully functioning and adequately resourced childrens department in the Ombudsmans office is important as is Photo: Ombudsman Conference of French speaking countries was held in Tirana from 23 to 24 October 2012

sues related to children often need specialist advise and attention. This is one of the recommendation of the UN Committee of the Rights of the Child made a few weeks ago following the review of the Albania progress report on childrens rights. Despite the progress made by Albania, the UN Committee made many other recommendations, which provide enough of an agenda to the concerned state institutions and development partners. Implementation of these recommendations could also be monitored by the Childrens Departments in the Ombudsmans Office.

Disability Draft Act consulted with partners and interest groups

On 11 October 2012, representatives of nongovernmental organizations, in-

cluding Disabled Peoples Associations, international non-governmental organizations, line ministries, Peoples Advocate, Antidiscrimination Commissioner and representatives of EU delegation in Albania, came together to discuss the draft law on Inclusion of and Accessibility for Persons with Disabilities. The draft law aims to ensure the effective promotion and protection of the rights of persons with disabilities. It further aims to enable their effective participation in all social spheres on an equal basis with others by enabling autonomy and independent living for all persons with disabilities through provision of assistance and support. The elaboration of the Disability draft law started in 2011. Several sessions are being organized with representatives of civil society organizations to get their opinions on the text. Along with this process, the Government has undertaken

Photo: Discussion of the draft law on Inclusion of and Accessibility for Persons with Disabilities on 11 October 2012

October | 11
the procedures for the ratification of the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities informed, Mr. Thoma Mio, General Director of Policies in the MOLSAEO. Ms. Ilda Bozo, Director of Cross-cutting Strategies Monitoring in the MOLSAEO, highlighted that the draft Act reflects Albanias commitment to human rights and shall guide the progressive amendment of Albanian legislation with a view to adapting it to a contemporary model and image of disability. The UNDP Cluster Manager for Environment and Participation, Ms. Entela Lako, present at the event highlighted that the draft law is a key legal text in transposing the Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities to Albanian law and wished all partners in the forum to have a constructive dialogue. This event was part of a series of consultation sessions organized since July 2012 with the civil society organizations in Shkodra, Vlora and Kora. Persons with disabilities, present at the consultation sessions, believe that this piece of legislation can strongly contribute to ensuring equal opportunities for all persons with disabilities on an equal basis with others, provided that it is implemented by accountable responsible agencies and stakeholders. The discussion on the draft law is still open for the groups of interest and other interested organizations. The process for drafting and finalizing the Disability Act is supported by UNDP Albania as part of its project Support Program on the Convention of the Right of Persons with Disabilities. The programme works to strengthen national capacity to achieve the social inclusion of persons with disabilities. In particular, the programme provides assistance on formulation of relevant legislation and policies, enhances stakeholders capacities on monitoring the implementation of the CRPD and raises public awareness about disability rights.

Photo: Participants at the International Day for Older Persons in Fier.

Older persons play a crucial role in society

On 1 October 2012, the Albanian Society for All Ages, Fier Municipality, and United Nations Volunteers organized an event to promote the International Day of Older Persons and highlight the crucial role they can play in

society. The event also aimed to call on the older persons to remain active and involved in their community, through the development of solidarity activities such as planting trees, looking after the children in the neighbourhood amongst others. The day was built around music, with a performance of the professional singer Shiqpe Zani. Young students of the local school joined elderly Roma musicians in sharing talent. The City Mayor, Baftjar Zeqaj, officially opened the event and announced the launching of a day care for older persons financed by the municipality of Fier. Information products about active aging were also distributed. The event ended with a reception that brought together participants from all generations of the city, including school students, older citizens, Roma musicians, Peace Corps Volunteers and volunteers from the Red Cross and the United Nations in Albania. Each year, on 1 October, the International Day of Older Persons is marked around the world. The United Nations General Assembly established 1 October as the International Day of Older Persons in 1990 and the day has been observed since 1 October 1991. The theme of the 2012 observation is Longevity: Shaping the Future. On this day, policy makers are reminded of the need to ensure the well-being of older persons and their meaningful participation in society. 2012 is also the European Year for Active Ageing and Solidarity between Generations, aiming to raise awareness of the contribution that older people make to society.

Fier is one of only 5 cities in Albania with a retirement home serving the needs of older people. It is also home to the United Nations programme on Empowering Vulnerable Local Communities. It was thus an opportunity to bring together younger and older generations of the city including the Roma community.

Stakeholders discuss ways to provide better opportunities and empower Roma and Egyptian Communities
Challenges and opportunities for the empowerment of Roma and Egyptian communities in the regions of Korca, Berat and Vlora were the focus of a consultative workshop on 3 October 2012. The event, held in Tirana, brought together representatives of central and local authorities, partner institutions, civil society organizations and activists in the area of minority rights. Social inclusion of vulnerable Roma and Egyptian remains a priority in the country and this consultative workshop is an effort to enhance coordination and strengthen cooperation among central and local authorities as well as foster collaboration between development agencies and local civil society organizations, says UNDP Country Director Ms. Yesim Oruc who was present at the event. Director of the Directorate of Crosscutting Strategies at Ministry of Labour Social Affairs and Equal Opportunities, Ilda Bozo highlighted the importance the new SSIREC Project has in spreading the

October | 12
effective practices in support of Roma/ Egyptian people in various regions of Albania. Programme Manager at the EU Delegation in Tirana, Stefano Calabretta, emphasized the constant commitment of the EC both at political and financial level in favor of social inclusion. At political level the Delegation is in constant contact with the relevant governmental counterparts for the implementation of the conclusion of the Workshop on Social Integration held in December last year. At financial level, the Commission is providing funding both at regional and national levels to several projects in support of inclusion of Roma & Egyptian communities. In this frame, the project implemented by UNDP has good preconditions for a successful implementation highlighted Mr. Calabretta. Participants in the workshop exchanged views on specific challenges and opportunities that the SSIREC may be faced with while providing assistance to the Roma and Egyptian communities in each region. Representatives of local authorities along with members of Roma and Egyptian civil society organizations identified local priorities in the areas of community consultation and representation, capacity building for community associations and youth, utilization of vocational trainings as well as localizing of the Roma Decade Action Plan. The recommendations of the consultative workshop will be shared with the stakeholders and are expected to guide the work of SSIREC and other development initiatives in the three regions during the next two years. The workshop was held in the framework of the newly launched Project Supporting Social Inclusion of Roma and Egyptian Communities (SSIREC), funded by the EU with a budget of EUR 1.6 million, and implemented by UNDP in partnership with the Ministry of Labour, Social Affairs and Equal Opportunities (MoLSAEO). The purpose of SSIREC Project is to further improve social inclusion of vulnerable Roma and Egyptian communities in three regions of Albania, by supporting participation in local planning and infrastructure development, capacity development for Roma and Egyptian civil society organizations, employment and entrepreneurship promotion, implementation and monitoring of social inclusion policies.

Photo: speech Minister Oldashi (Photo Credit: GIZ)

Water Regulatory Authority publishes first Performance Report and presents Utility Performance Awards 2011
With the publication of the Report on the Performance of the Water Supply and Sewerage Utilities 2011, cooperation between the Albanian Water Regulatory Authority (WRA) and the Deutsche Gesellschaft fr Internationale Zusammenarbeits (GIZ) Water Sector Reform Program has reached another important milestone. The report takes monitoring

WRA Performance Report (Photo Credit: GIZ)

of the water supply and sewerage sector performance to a new level: the WRA released detailed information on each water supply and sewerage companys progress as well as a league table ranking of the 56 companies that were assessed. During the official launch ceremony on 10 October, results were discussed and the top performers presented with awards in recognition of their achievements during the year 2011. The event was well-received and attended by a broad audience of central and local government representatives, national and international regulatory authorities, supervisory councils, associations, media, customer representatives and donors, besides the targeted water supply and sewerage utilities. Minister of Public Works and Transport, Sokol Olldashi, stressed in his keynote speech the paramount significance of the report for the steering of sector development The Water Regulatory Authoritys first report gives us the opportunity to really see what is happening, how the utilities have performed, and to exchange on good and bad experiences. The WRA has devoted much effort to increasing transparency in the sector, and wants the utilities to be accountable for the services they do or fail to deliver. The from now on annual publication of the WRAs Performance Report is intended as another incentive for utility managers to improve the performance of their company for the good of the Albanian consumers. During the launch event, Chairman of the WRA, Avni Dervishi

October | 13
explained: Customers can shop around for the best deal on many things, but not tap water. The WRA is here to make sure that they are treated fairly. There is no doubt that our utilities need to become better at running efficient businesses that deliver a level of service that customers are satisfied with, and will be happy to pay for.

Visit of the Director General of the Italian Development Cooperation, Minister Plenipotentiary Elisabetta Belloni
The high level conference The Role of Decentralization in the Consolidation of Democracy in Albania and the European Integration, held in Tirana on 30-31 October 2012, saw the participation of the Director of the Italian Development Cooperation, Minister Plenipotentiary, Elisabetta Belloni. The Conference, which concluded the six-month Albanian chairmanship of the Committee of Ministers of the Council of Europe was organized in collaboration with the UNDP ArtGold 2 Programme, funded by the Italian Government, and with the financial support of the Swiss cooperation. The Conference, chaired by the Deputy Minister of Interior, Ferdinand Poni, brought together representatives of the Albanian Government, as the Minister of Interior Flamur Noka and the Minister of Transport and Public Works Olldashi, Ambassadors to Albania, EU speakers and representatives of local and regional authorities in Albania and Europe, civil
Photo: Representatives of WRA and awarded top performing utilities (Photo Credit: GIZ)

society, business community as well as academics, donors and media. The conference recognized the important role of decentralization toward the consolidation of democracy in Albania and. More in general, in the Balkan Region, by creating a common platform of dialogue for local and regional authorities. During her address at the plenary conference, Mrs. Elisabetta Belloni emphasized the important contribution of Italian Cooperation in Albania, by strengthening the local government institutions and promoting democratic participatory processes. In her point of view, local development is crucial for the economic and institutional development in every democratic country. The collaboration between the Italian Cooperation and UNDP in Albania has been very effective in promoting democratic partici-

pation at the local level, facilitating access to credit for the most disadvantaged groups and supporting the social integration of vulnerable groups, through the ART GOLD 2 Programme. I am absolutely convinced that the theme of Local Development should be put at the centre of the political agenda. UNDP ART GOLD 2 staff led the panel on Local and Regional Development, and showcased the significant knowledge that has been accumulated in Albania on territorial governance and sustainable development. In particular, it was highlighted the Shkodra and Vlora bottom-up participatory process for the development of the two respective strategic documents. Within the framework of the mission in Albania, the Director Belloni, accompanied by the Italian Ambassador Gaiani and the Director of the Italian Cooperation office in Tirana, Mr. Senatori, had meetings with the Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Economy, Trade and Energy, Mr. Haxhinasto and the Minister for Public Works, Mr. Olldashi. In both meetings, characterized by a very friendly atmosphere, the Albanian Counterpart expressed full satisfaction and gratitude to the Italian support for the economic and social development of the Country and for the promotion of the European integration process in Albania. Minister Haxhinasto underlined the remarkable role of the Italian Coopera-

Photo: High level conference The Role of Decentralization in the Consolidation of Democracy in Albania and the European Integration, held in Tirana on 30-31 October 2012

October | 14
tion Programme in the support of the Albanian Private Sector Development. The ongoing Italian-Albanian Programme for the Development of Small and Medium Enterprises [SME], with an overall commitment of 28,3 million Euro, supported more than 75 Albanian SMEs in the access to the credit. Thanks to the positive results achieved by the Programme, the Minister and the General Director emphasized the importance of the additional 15 million Euro follow up initiative, that should be soon finalized. As for the Energy Sector, the Minister highlighted the recent activities related to the Trans Adriatic Pipeline (TAP), stressing on the strategic importance of this common infrastructure and foretold a progressively increasing participation of Italy to the development of renewable resources in Albania. Moreover the General Director paid a visit to the Minister Olldashi, with whom had a review over the main ongoing programmes and the planned actions, especially for the projects related to the Port of Vlore and the landfill of Sharra, for which further development are envisaged with the support of the Italian Cooperation.

Photo: Prime Minister Sali Berisha delivered remarks at USAID\s Conference on Fiscal Decentralization (Credit:USAID/Albania)

High Level Conference on Decentralisation Brings Together International and Local Actors
A two-day, high-level conference on decentralisation brought together various international and local partners to share and debate issues related to decentralisation and local democracy in Albania. The conference marked the closure of Albanias Presidency of the Council of Europe. On 30 and 31 October 2012, the Ministry of Interior held a two-day conference with the aim of fostering information sharing and debate related to decentralisation and local democracy in Albania. The event took place at Sheraton Hotel and brought together many international and local partners active in the process of decentralisation and local government strengthening. I truly believe that this event and similar platforms are necessary for encour-

aging relevant discussion and debate on important issues such as that of decentralization and democracy in the country, said Swiss Cooperations Country Director, Holger Tausch during his speech. We hope that such platforms will continue to be organized in the future and because they allow a broad and meaningful discussion and consultation process among all stakeholders beyond political considerations, continued Mr. Tausch. Present at the conference were the Minister of Interior, Flamur Noka, the President of the Chamber of Regions, Ms. Nataliya Romanova, the Head of OSCE Presence in Albania, Eugen Wollfarth, the Deputy Director of Swiss Development and Cooperation for Eastern Europe, Roger Denzer and the Deputy Mayor of Tirana, Jorida Tabaku. The conference was organised in 6 thematic sessions held simultaneously during day 1, while the final plenary session took place on day 2 at the Xibraku Resort outside of Tirana. The thematic sessions focused on regionalisation, local and regional development, human rights at the local level, cross-border cooperation, citizens participation and performance and autonomy of local authorities. The conference featured a lively debate and covered relevant issues related to decentralisation, local government and regional development, stressing both progresses made so far and the challenges still to be addressed.

USAID Promotes Dialogue on Fiscal Decentralization in Albania

On October 4, USAIDs Planning and Local Governance Project in Albania (PLGP) held the Conference on Fiscal Decentralization which aimed to stimulate dialogue and consensus building on actions to be implemented to advance the fiscal decentralization in a fair, equitable, and transparent manner. Mayors of PLGP partner LGUs, representatives from Ministries of Interior and Finance, the donor community working in local governance, NGOs participated in discussions. Prior to the conference, USAID prepared a White Paper of Fiscal Decentralization which analyzed the legal framework and financial situations of local governments based on broad consultations with stakeholders in national and local level.

Swiss Programme on Strengthening Local Government Inaugurates New Town Square in Reps
The Swiss-funded Decentralisation and Local Development Programme (DLDP) has organised the inauguration of a new town square and park in the centre of Reps town. The investment is part of the DLDPs intervention in strengthening local government units in

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several areas of North Albania.

On 2 October 2012,a renovated town square was made possible in Reps after a successful cooperation between Orosh commune authorities and the Swissfunded Decentralisation and Local Development Programme, DLDP. The inauguration saw the participation of Swiss Ambassador, Yvana Enzler, Swiss Cooperations Country Director, Holger Tausch, Mayor of Orosh, Aleksander Lala, DLDP programme staff, commune council members and local government representatives. We are glad to see that the local government units are mobilizing and contributing more to the improvement of conditions in their areas, said Swiss Ambassador, Yvana Enzler, in her speech. She mentioned that this investment is especially important since the Orosh commune cooperated by funding 32% of the investment. Mayor of Orosh Commune, Aleksander Lala expressed his confidence that such cooperation with the Swiss programme will continue in the future. Our decentralisation and local development programme is designed to strengthen local government structures, to introduce new models of functioning, to improve procedures and to enable infrastructure investments, said Swiss Cooperations Country Director, Holger Tausch. It is an essential part of this programme to ensure joint cooperation as well as co-funding from local government units, and today we see a clear example of this here in Reps, added Mr. Tausch. The new town square in Reps includes paved walkways, green patches and benches. Through its grant fund programme DLDP provided5,237,356 ALL while the Orosh Commune contributed with 2,416,971 ALL. Around 1,162 inhabitants of Reps benefit from this investment while the cooperation model can be replicated in the future for other similar projects.

Photo: Inauguration of the renovated town square in Reps with participation of Swiss Ambassador, Yvana Enzler, Swiss Cooperations Country Director, Holger Tausch, Mayor of Orosh, Aleksander Lala, DLDP programme staff, commune council members and local government representatives.

New Regional Development Grant Fund Launched

A new fund for supporting regional development in Northern Albania was launched in October, aiming at facilitating several projects that will boost social

and economic development in the areas of Shkodra and Lezha. On 29 October 2012, the Regional Development Programme (RDP) launched a new grant fund scheme as part of its strategy to support the development of Shkodra and Lezha regions. The launching event was held at the premises of hotel Colosseo in Shkodra and brought together about 90 participants representing various layer of regional, local and central government structures as well as civil society and private business. The meeting was attended by the Austrian Ambassador, H.E Florian Raunig, the Head of Austrian Development Cooperation in Albania, Astrid Wein, Swiss Cooperations representative, Sokol Haxhiu, the Chairman of the Regional Council of Lezha, Pashk Gjoni, and the Chairman of Regional Council of Shkoder, Maxhid Cungu. There was also a wide participation of representatives of local structures and local government units from Shkodra and Lezha regions, and representatives from civil society and business community. The meeting introduced and discussed key points of the Fund of Regional Development Programme (RDP) financed by the Government of Austria and Switzerland. During the event, the RDP Team Leader, Daniel Wagner, introduced the concept and main goals of the Regional Development Fund and also presented its

manual. Further presentations by RDP staff explained more in detail the selection criteria and deadlines for the three funding windows offered by RDP. The event was greeted by Astrid Wein, Head of Austrian Development Cooperation, and His Excellency, Florian Raunig, the Ambassador of Austria. Other speakers included Maxhid Cungu, Chairman of Regional Council of Shkodra and Pashk Gjoni, Chairman of the Regional Council of Lezha. The new fund is expected to be an effective tool in boosting social and economic development in the areas of Shkodr and Lezh. For more information about the project visit www.rdpnorthernalbania.org

New Programme Activities on Tax Transparency and Simplification Start Successfully

Swiss Cooperation together with the International Finance Corporation have started successfully several activities related to the Tax Transparency and Simplification programme. The goal is to improve and simplify the tax administration system in Albania by making procedures easier and decreasing compliance costs, and by introducing Transfer Pricing and Double Taxation Treaties.

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Following a mission in September 2012 by a team of IFC tax experts, a compliance survey started implementation targeting 1,000 Albanian businesses. The survey is now underway and its results will reveal key information related to tax compliance issues as seen by private companies and businesses. A Transfer Pricing Unit was established for the first time ever at the General Taxation Directorate and five staff members of the unit were trained by IFC tax experts on transfer pricing issues and policies. In addition, plans are underway to organize a regional training session on tax treaties in February 2013. In line with the above activities, the Ministry of Finance has shown its support for the tax programme by committing around 50,000 USD in the coming months. Swiss Cooperation supports a tax programme that covers several countries in the region and has a special focus on legislation, procedures and tax administrations capacities for SMEs and international companies.

Photo: Swiss Cooperation direct assistance to the taxpayers service staff

Roundtable on Corporate Governance Sparks Interest among Private Companies

The Corporate Governance Institute of Albania organized a roundtable to introduce the Corporate Governance Code and emphasise the importance of good corporate governance for businesses. Around 25 business representatives from various companies participated and shared their views on this topic. The conference was attended and greeted by the Swiss Co-

operations Country Director, Holger Tausch, and the International Finance Corporations Country Officer, Elira Sakiqi. I am pleased to see Switzerlands support for continuing this program towards making Albanian companies more attractive to investors, said Holger Tausch, Swiss Cooperations Country Director. I encourage the Corporate World of Albania to look at these governance issues from a broad perspective, in order to raise your own awareness of the potential benefits of implementing the Corporate Governance Code, continued Mr. Tausch. The issue of assessment and implementation of the corporate governance

code was discussed at the roundtable with businesses indicating serious interest in adopting and implementing the code. Participants had a chance to hear about the benefits of good corporate governance and also to learn on how to apply it. IFC Corporate Governance Programme Officer, Kiril Nejkov presented results achieved by the Corporate Governance Programme, which is an initiative supported by the Swiss Cooperation and implemented by the IFC. As a result, two companies showed interest in conducting corporate governance assessments.

Climate Change Action Day - Building resilience to climate change in Drini-Mati River Deltas
On 10 October 2012, the Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Water Administration in cooperation with UNDP Climate Change Programme and Regional Council of Lezha organized an event on the occasion of Climate Change Action Day. A demonstration of an adaptation/restoration measure in the Drini-Mati River Deltas (DMRD) which consisted in dune restoration through grass planting - (Amophilaarenaria) was made. The `dune planting` demonstrated during the

Photo: Roundtable organized by the Corporate Governance Institute of Albania to introduce the Corporate Governance Code

October | 17
event, represents an ecosystem-based adaptation tool to re-establish natural diversity of dunes` plants and animals. It`s results will be used as an example to be replicated in other parts of the coast to help restoring, as appropriate, of some natural processes that sustain dunes ecosystems. The event was attended by representatives of local government, community members, international organizations, civil society and media. The impacts of climate change including extreme events in coastal ecosystems have started recently to become visible in Albania. Increased number of floods, droughts, storm surges and coastal erosion has caused damages in ecosystems and local livelihood activities. Especially in last 20 years, as result of climate change and of human impacts, the Protected Area of Kune-Vain and Patoku lagoons is under the increasing influence of the dynamic geomorphologic processes in favour of the high erosion and consequently, of an extreme degradation of dunes` system and other habitats behind. Dunes` system, almost all over DMRD coastal area is damaged; more segments do not exist or are dominated by invasive vegetation. The created situation made it necessary to take adaptation/restoration activities to increase the ecosystem and livelihood resilience to climate change. UNDP Country Director, Yesim Oruc, highlightedthat the urgent need to take into account the impact of climate change in all strategies and development plans of the area. She also noted the need to cooperate with other partners to further implement the adaptation plan in the DMRD area. UNDP will continue to support Albania`s efforts to better cope with the impacts of climate change and look forward to possible cooperation with all stakeholders at national and local government level, said Mrs. Oruc. Deputy Ministry of Environment, Forestry and Water Administration, Taulant Bino, highlighted: We are already ahead of a challenge and the need to intensify the work of all stakeholders at national and local level to consider the integration of adaptation measures also in the management plan of the Patok protected area; to monitor the climate change related indicators of ecosystems

Photo: Climate Change Action Day organized on 10 October 2012

as part of the national monitoring and enable the early warning system in the project`s area; to replicate the results of this project in other parts of the Albanian coast line with similar problems and to urgently adopt and/or implement the set of recommendations of the policy document that the project is developing for the integration of the issues associated with climate change adaptation into the national or regional development plans. Head of Regional Council of Lezha, Pashk Gjoni, who attended the event highlighted: We are happy to see the implementation of the first adaptation measure identified for the Vain coastal area- the dune planting of several damage parts. Let this be the first example which would convince us even more that adapting to climate change can be based on ecosystem resilience During the event an exhibition was displayed with paintings drawn by students of the public schools of Lezha Region on the topic: Climate Change and Adaptation Challenges. The event was organized by Identification and implementation of the adaptation response measures in Drini Mati Rivers Deltas project under the UNDP Climate Change Programme. The long term goal of the project is to assist Albania in establishing a mechanism by which strategies to moderate,

cope with, and take advantage of the consequences of climate change are enhanced, developed, and implemented. The specific objective of project is increasing the ecosystem resilience in the Protected Areas of Kune-Vain and Patok, which harbour significant biodiversity values at global scale, throughout identification and implementation of adaptation response measures to climate change.

Visit of Italian Cooperation Director, Mr. Andrea Senatori to the Buna River protected area
Institutional support for protected areas in Albania this is the title of project financed by the Italian Cooperation and implemented by the International Union for Conservation of Nature - IUCN, in which contest on October 10 2012, the Director of the Italian Cooperation, Andrea Senatori, paid a visit to the Protected Landscape of Buna River. The project aims at strengthening both central and local offices of the Albanias Ministry of Environment, Forest and Water Administration (MEFWA) by developing their capacities to systemically plan and manage protected areas. During his visit to Buna River, one of the project pilot sites, Mr. Senatori

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met with the staff of the protected area administration to know about the advancement of the activities carried out by IUCN, particularly the training of the staff and the preparation of the protected area management plan. While walking through the strict forest reserve in Velipoja he confessed to have been surprised by the beauty of the surrounding landscape, characterised by a rich alluvial forest, an unspoiled beach and by the Buna river mouth. I hope our support will help stopping reiterating the same mistakes we have also done on many coastal areas of Italy. Less concrete (build up) and more natural areas, this is the challenge for a sustainable future said Mr. Senatori. Later in the day Mr. Senatori met the representatives of the local communes, namely the vice mayor of the Velipoje commune and the mayors of Daj and Ana i Malit communes to discuss on the new opportunities for supporting local actors toward ecotourism and sustainable development.

Photo: Visit of Italian Cooperation Director, Mr. Andrea Senatori to the Buna River protected area

The Peaks of the Balkans

tain tourism in the border triangle of Albania, Kosovo and Montenegro the joint border-crossing hiking trail Peaks of the Balkans has been established. There were signposts installed, procedures for border crossing adopted, hiking guides trained and tourism service providers supported. A promotion concept with a joint name and logo has also been developed. Information about the Peaks of the Balkans Trail can be found on www.peaksofthebalkans.com. Further Information on GIZ Open Regional Funds you will find here: www. giz.de/regionalfonds-suedosteuropa.

South East European Law School network

On the 25 March 2011, was established the South East European Law Schools Network (SEELS), with the participation of eleven Law Faculties from the countries of the region. This network is supported by Deutsche Gesellschaft fr Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH, ORF- Legal Reform. The main goal of this project is to assist the legal community on getting closer to the EU in terms of education

The GIZ ( Deutsche Gesellschaft fr Internationale Zusammenarbeit GmbH) Open Regional Fund for Foreign Trade Promotion develops and implements projects that aim at improving framework conditions for competitiveness and free trade in the region of Southeast Europe. Within the project Cross-border development of moun-

Photo: PhD students and assistant professors from the countries of the region, were brought together in a regional training, in Durrs from 10 14 September, 2012 (Credit: GIZ-ORF)

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and exchange of experience. Following the goal sixty master students, PhD students and assistant professors from the countries of the region, were brought together in a regional training, in Durrs from 10 14 September, 2012. The training Harmonisation of South East European States Legislation with the EU Law, was organized in such a way that, participants were not only learning about the EU Law, but also about the region and the process of EU Integration in which all countries of the region are part. The main achievement of the training was the regional integration of the participants from the different countries.

Supporting Parliament`s role in EU-Integration

The Netherlands is sponsoring a project through its Matra programme that enhances the role of the Albanian Parliament in the pre-accession process. In that framework a round table was held focusing on youth political forums. Albanian members of parliament, political youth forum members and foreign experts discussed ways and means nourishing party democracy and influencing decision making processes. A special contribution was provided by two international experts: Mr. Jan Marinus Wiersma, for-

Photo: Roundtable held in the framework of the Dutch project that enhances the role of the Albanian Parliament (Credit: Embassy of the Netherlands)

mer Member of the European Parliament (The Netherlands), and Mr. Darko Fras, Member of Parliament in Slovenia. For more information on the `East West Parliamentary Practice Project please

consult http://tinyurl.com/d9h24vy. If you would like to know more about the Matra Programme in general, please visit http://www.minbuza.nl/en/keytopics/matra-programme.

Canada Fund for LocalInitiatives in Albania

The Government of Canada is pleased to announce an extension of its Canada Fund for LocalInitiatives in Albaniafor the current fiscal year 2012-2013 (ending March 31, 2013).TheCanada FundProgram is intended to encourage citizens engagement in development processes,to supportcivil society organizations working to improve the lives of Albanians and to strengthen democracyand democratic institutionsin Albania.The Canada Fund Programfocuses on small-scale, sustainable projectspromoting the thematic priorities of: (i) Advancing Democracy; (ii) Ensuring Security and Stability;(iii) Opportunities for Women and Youth; and (iv) Sustainable Economic Growth. TheCanada Fund Programis now accepting new proposals untilNovember 30,2012.In this framework, registered NGOs wishing to submit project proposals may receive information on policy and guidelines from the Canadian Honorary Consulate, Canada Fund Program. The Canadian contribution must be matched by a significant equivalent contribution from the local partner.Project proposals that areleveragedby contributions from otherinternational donors arewelcome. Only shortlisted organizations will be contacted. All applications are required to be in English. The application form can be used. It can be obtained by e-mailing to:qinamie@abcom-al.com

For further information, please contact: Canadian Honorary Consulate (Konsullata e Nderit e Kanadase) Programi Canada Fund Rruga Deshmoret e 4 Shkurtit (Pallati i Ri perballe Akademise se Arteve) Kati 2, Tiran (Tirana)- Albania Tel: + 355 4 2257274 Fax: + 355 4 257273 Mob: 0682029122

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In-country Missions
World Bank Social Assistance Modernization Project, Implementation Support Mission, took place from 22 to 26 October 2012. The aims of the mission were to: (i) assist the Government in identifying the next steps to start the implementation of the project and assess the implementation progress (ii) follow up with MoLSA and Ministry of Finance (MoF) on some of the critical issues for the success of the project such as the progress on the funding and procurement of the MIS and the approval of the secondary legislation for pilot implementation; (iii) discuss with EU and MoLSA the next steps for the Technical Assistance activities outlined under the project to be funded by IPA 2013; and (iv) share initial results of the local capacity assessment undertaken during the visit in June 2012; Albania Improved Natural Resources Management, Implementation Support Mission took place from 15 to 19 October 2012). The overall aim of the mission was to follow up with the Project team and your Ministry on the implementation of the Swedish Grant on Improved Natural Resources Management Project, review the draft national platform on forest and pasture decentralization and monitor the implementation of the PROFOR Grant on Innovative Financing for Sustainable Natural Resources Management in Albania; Disaster Risk Mitigation and Adaptation Project; Technical Assistance to Strengthening of Flood Risk Management, from 8 to 15 October 2012. The primary aim of the mission was to carry out the implementation support to the Disaster Risk Mitigation and Adaptation Project (DRMAP), and to discuss the results of the Study on Flood Risk Assessment and Management in Drini-Buna River Basin, following its conclusion on September 30, 2012, as per the GFDRR grant financing agreement. In the con-

text of project Component 2, Strengthening of Hydrometeorological Services, the mission was joint by a representative of the UN World Meteorological Organization (WMO), Mr. Dimitar Ivanov, Chief of Regional Office for Europe, Development and Regional Activities Department. In light of project closing set for February 28, 2013, the purpose of the mission was to discuss with the Government counterparts the progress made in the implementation of the remaining DRMAP project activities, the actions agreed during the previous mission of April 2012, the forecasted disbursements, and the likelihood of achievement of project development objectives by its conclusion. The Bank team and the Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Consumer Protection also discussed the results of the technical assistance to flood risk management in the Drini-Buna river basin, supported by the grant from the Global Facility for Disaster Reduction and Recovery (GFDRR); Education Excellence and Equity Project (Credit No. 4180-ALB), Implementation Support Mission, visited from 3 to 12 October 2012. The aim of the visit

was to review the overall project implementation progress and bottlenecks. The review was focus on the impact of the current debt ceiling in project implementation until June 2013, the Projects scheduled closing date. The Bank team also planned visiting schools throughout the country to oversee compliance with environmental safeguards. And finally, Bank procurement specialist carried out a post-review of selected procurement packages; IDF Grant Strengthening Aarhus Convention Implementation Project Implementation Support Mission, visited on 8-9 October 2012. The key aims of the mission were to: (i) assess progress made on project implementation since the last mission of April 2012, focusing on the status of the agreed-upon critical actions; (ii) identify any remained funds and agree on their use with the project team; (iii) review progress-to-date on key project indicators; (iv) supervise the status of implementation of all grant activities; (v) agree on an action plan for the 3 remaining months of the project closing date; and (vi) discuss the preparation of Implementation Completion Report (ICR).

As of 1 January until 31 December 2012, the EU Delegation is the Chair of the Donor Technical Secretariat. All comments regarding Government-Donor Dialogue are warmly welcomed! Want to contribute? If you would like to contribute, send your text to the Donor Technical Secretariat (DTS) Office (nevila.como@aidharmonisation.org.al) or the Department of Strategy and Donor Coordination (DSDC) (koordinimi@km.gov.al) by the 5th of every month. An ideal word count for submissions is around 100 words. Frequency Each edition will be sent to you on the 15th of every month. Who are the donors in Albania? To find out who are the donors operating in Albania please click here. To unsubscribe: Please send an e-mail to Nevila omo (nevila.como@aidharmonisation.org.al )

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