ISSUE No.

68, Monthly Newsletter - March 2013

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 8 March 2013, many women diplomats, joined Deputy Mayor of Tirana, Jorida Tabaku in one of the buses and showed their solidarity and support to public response against gender-based and domestic violence.

Citizens of Tirana can report domestic violence cases through a green line
A green line to report domestic violence cases is now available to Tirana citizens. On 8 March 2013, on International Womens Day many urban bus lines in Tirana carried the slogan Tirana against violence against women which provides information on free telephone lines where they can report domestic violence and seek help. The Community Centres Network (Useful to Albanian Women Association) and Tirana Municipality are providing specialized psychologists and social workers to answer the calls and refer domestic violence cases to appropriate services. UN Resident Coordinator and UNDP Resident Representative, Zineb TouimiBenjelloun, French Ambassador Christine Moro, German Ambassador Carola Mller Holtkemper and many women diplomats, joined Deputy Mayor of Tirana, Ms. Jorida Tabaku in one of the buses and showed their solidarity and support to public response against gender-based and domestic violence. Today on International Womens Day, while many women celebrate, we are here to show that many other women are fighting for their rights. In cooperation with UNDP and women diplomats and at the same time with civil society, that undertook this initiative, we have made an effort to make visible the green number that will be available for all women subject to violence, Jorida Tabaku, Deputy Mayor of Tirana said.

March | 2

In this issue
Citizens of Tirana can report domestic violence cases through a green line Donor Activities on International Womens Day The role of civil society in the implementation of the Albanian legislation and international standards on gender equality Encouraging participative citizenry through discussion with parliamentarians Human Development Report 2013 Launched: Albania in the high human development category EU-funded project enhances the freedom of movement of passengers and goods Awareness-raising on the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative German GIZ organizes 3rd Regional Conference on Civil Law Peaks of the Balkans hiking trail wins Tourism of Tomorrow Award with support of Germany Solar Water Heating systems installed at the Orphan House in Tirana Biogas from Waste Water Treatment Plants - German GIZ approach reduces operational costs by 50-60% OSCE performs training needs assessment for Albanian special forces An Institutional Development Plan for the Ministry of European Integration EU-funded Project Support to the Government of Albanias participation in Community Programmes European Training Foundation to carry out feasibility studies to set up multifunctionalcentres in vocational education and training (VET) in Albania

Photo: On 8 March 2013, many women diplomats, joined Deputy Mayor of Tirana, Jorida Tabaku in one of the buses and showed their solidarity and support to public response against genderbased and domestic violence.

The usual passengers of Tirana e Re bus line were greeted this morning by a group of volunteers carrying mimosa branches and the campaign ribbon of the UN Secretary Generals UNiTE to End Violence Against Women!. They provided information about Tirana Coordinated Response Mechanism, what this Mechanism can do for survivors of domestic violence and how citizens can contact the members of the Mechanism to seek help, including a toll-free green number. Having a toll -free telephone number is very important for women survivors. They have a place to report domestic violence cases and have access to appropriate services, - UNDP Resident representative, Zineb Touimi--Benjelloun highlighted. French Ambassador Ms. Christine Moro noted that action is the right word as violence is one of the major issues amongst women. German Ambassador, Carola Mller Holtkemper amongst others said that it is important to not forget that womens rights are not fully met while violence against women is a very

serious issue. Thats why I am happy to contribute to this project that will give assistance to women through telephone lines. United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Albania, with the support of the Swedish government, is assisting Tirana Municipality, and particularly its Gender Equality Office, the law enforcement agencies, justice, health, education and employment structures, as well as non-profit organizations providing services, to jointly respond to domestic violence cases. In collaboration with the Ministry of Labour, Social Affairs and Equal Opportunities, UNDP is helping to spread the model of inter-disciplinary collaboration against domestic violence and many other local government units as required by domestic legislation and international standards ratified by the Republic of Albania. For protection against domestic violence please call toll-free number 0800 99 88 or Municipality Domestic Violence Coordinator 067 2000 717

March | 3
Presentation of findings of the Public Perception Survey on Womens participation in politics and decision making
On 8 March 2013, the Albanian Institute for Social Innovation (AISI) launched the results of a public perception survey on Womens Participation in Politics and Decision Making in Albania, conducted between September 2012 and January 2013. The survey was supported by the UN Women and Government of Sweden, in collaboration with the European University of Tirana and presented on the International Womens Day. Around 2,986 persons from the 12 regions of Albania participated in the survey. The survey aimed to pinpoint the public perception concerning gender equality and womens participation in politics, women as voters, voting of women candidates and the pervasive opinion on the gender quota. With this survey, we intended to identify the factors and actors that inhibit and encourage womens participation in politics and decisionmaking as well as to trigger a debate on finding the most effective mechanisms to achieve this goal, Sokol Haxhiu, AISI Executive Director said for the participants during the survey launching organised in the European University of Tirana. Attending the event were representatives from political parties, civil society, international organisations, students and professors, media, etc. Data analysis and comparison with another similar 2008 survey supported by UN Women indicate: Womens increased desire to state their will through vote; Increased support for women in high management positions such as prime minister, president or head of municipality; 82% of those interviewed think that women may work as MPs; More support to the gender quota (75% against 50% in 2008); Womens family role seems less inhibitive to pursuing a political career, compared to 2008

Photo: The round table introducing the findings of the public perception survey on Womens participation in politics and decision-making

ception about women and girls actually involved in politics and decision-making is very positive. They are seen as capable of taking on responsibilities, determined and sensible to the citizens needs, open and tolerant. On the other hand, it seems the same rate has been maintained as in 2008 regarding: Need to increase womens presence in political life and decisionmaking; Perception that the political environment is dominated by men and that women have few chances to be heard; Reasons for support of candidates running for head of municipality/ commune (good reputation, ability to keep promises and contribution to the community; Gender has no impact in the selection of candidates; Role of the media, particularly TV, in raising public awareness on the need for womens participation in politics Womens impact is seen to be stronger in these areas: protection and observance of human rights and advancement of social policy and health. At the eve of National Elections in June 2013, political parties, decision makers as well as other stakeholders should be informed that the majority of people/ interviewees affirm that women are under-represented and 82% of those interviewed believe that women can become

Also, the survey pointed out the per-

MPs. This is a very positive development in anticipation of the general elections of June 2013, the UN Resident Coordinator in Albania, Zineb Touimi-Benjelloun, said. She added that the survey indicates that women have stronger willingness and feel ready to be part of political decision making regardless of the prevailing aggressive political environment. This is a very good message to be celebrated on womens day. First Secretary of the Swedish Embassy in Tirana, Robert Nygard, noted that after 10 years of incessant support to the civil society and government for the attainment of gender equality, it is time that women and girls are heard more. We hope that the results of this survey will encourage the representatives of politics and society in Albania to reflect and take action that change our behaviour and that reinforce social interplay and democracy. One of the co-authors of the survey, Dr. Klea Faniko said that the survey represents a gold mine in terms of research data for all stakeholders seeking to enhance womens participation in politics and decision-making. Ms. Fiorela Shalsi, National Coordinator in UN Women informed on some follow-up steps to this survey such as lobbying near the political parties and inclusion of media, universities and youth to make sure that women are full-rights participants in politics and decision-making. The meeting ended with the new song One Woman created by UN Women on occasion of 8 March to honour the efforts of women all around the world for more rights and equality.

Korrik - March Gusht | 4

EU Activities on the International Womens Day

Photo: Head of the EU Delegation to Albania, Ambassador Ettore Sequi, meeting with women members of the Albanian Parliament on International Womens Day.

Photo: Exhibition 100 years of womens life and contribution in Albania

On 8 March 2013, on International Womens Day, the EU Ambassador to Albania Ettore Sequi met with Women Parliamentarians. In his speech he highlighted: You are at once proof of what women in Albania and around the world are capable of, and proof of their struggle to enjoy equal rights and fulfil their potentials. You have gone through that struggle yourselves you have had to win over discrimination to represent voters in Parliament. Your own struggle to become advocates of your voters is also the opportunity and responsibility to break the glass ceiling for all women in Albania. You need to continue the struggle for gender equality until all women in Albania are able to flourish in all walks of life. Ambassador Sequi concluded his speech by saying This year is a particularly good year to demonstrate the importance you attach to equality of men and women. I urge you to pursue the cause of womens rights, the cause of your rights within your parties, starting with the list of candidates for the June 2013 elections.

On Womens Day Ambassador Ettore Sequi meets with women MPs

100 years of womens life and contribution in Albania

On the occasion of 8 March - the International Womens Day, the EU Info Centre in Vlora, in close collaboration with Reflection, Useful to Albanian Women and Gender Alliance for Development Center associations re-launched the Exhibition 100 years of womens life and contribution in Albania. The aim of this exhibition was to present - through historical facts - the achievements of the Albanian women in different wakes of life, arts and culture. It aimed to emphasize the role and contribution of women throughout the history, from 1912 until 2012, and showcase the women movement during these last 20 years.The exhibition was of a great interest and was visited by many women who were invited on the occasion of 8 March, teachers and students from Vlora high schools. The exhibition remained open until 13 March 2013.

painters of Shkodra organized painting exhibition No EU Integration without womens empowerment aiming to attract the citizens of the region. This exhibition aimed to present the best values of our society, embodied in Albanian women, through the art of well-known women painters of Shkodra, who artistically introduced them in the context of the EU integration process. Special guests at the event were the six authors of paintings, all women. Mrs. Miriam Neziri Angoni, in charge of the EU Information Centres in Shkodra and Vlora, highlighted the achievements, challenges and contribution of Albanian women in the countrys EU integration and . During the opening speech, she pointed out that this exhibition represents the major value of the EU: freedom of expression. Finally she called for the need to encourage womens participation in decision-making and further promotion of equality between men and women as a priority for EU integration.

Painting exhibition No EU integration without womens empowerment

On 8 March 2013, as part of International Womens Day activities, the EU Info Centre in Shkodra, in close cooperation with the association Women Photo: exhibition No EU Integration without womens empowerment

Korrik - March Gusht | 5

The role of civil society in the implementation of the Albanian legislation and international standards on gender equality
The Centre for Legal and Civic Initiatives (CLCI) supported by UNDP is implementing an initiative on strategic litigation for womens rights and monitoring of court decisions on their application of gender equality related legislation. This initiative is funded by Sweden through the UN Coherence Fund and it is part of the Government of Albania - United Nations Programme of Cooperation 2012-2016. CLCI launched on 13 March 2013 some preliminary findings of this monitoring, aiming to promote discussion among legal professionals on some issues women face in their interactions with the justice system. Swedish Embassy Counsellor, Lisa Fredriksson,invited in this round table discussion highighted in her opening remark: Respect womens rights! is not about rhetoric - it is about real life and situations. It is about real court cases, about real women whose rights have been violated, it is about real heroines and heroes of civil society organizations. You support these women in court, when every other door is closed, when free legal aid intended to be provided to them is missing...It is about Albanias commitments to comply with the best international standards on gender equality.

Photo: Round table discussion on civil society role in implementation of Albanian legislation and international standards of gender equality

Encouraging participative citizenry through discussion with parliamentarians

In the framework of the OSCE Presence in Albanias parliamentary support

activities for strengthening the accountability and representative role of the Assembly, a discussion forum was organized on 12 March 2013 in Shkodra. The forum, which aimed at collecting information and sharing ideas on current practices and interaction between MPs and their constituencies at local level, marked the beginning of a series of meetings to take place in two other regions in 2013. Topics discussed included the participatory role of MPs and interaction with their constituencies and different groups of interest at local level, ways to improve communication between MPs and constituents, including how these relationships can be strengthened to enable active citizen participation in the legislative process. Three MPs, two from the majority and one from the opposition from Shkodra were invited as panellists. Participants included a group of 60 students from the University of Shkodra. The participants called on MPs

to hold frequent meetings and discussions with citizens, in order to listen to the voice of the public and bring it forward to the legislative and policy-making process.

Human Development Report 2013 Launched: Albania in the high human development category
Leading countries of the developing world are together reshaping global power dynamics a new era of human development progress, says The Rise of the South: Human Progress in a Diverse World, the 2013 Human Development Report, launched by the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) on 15 March 2013. The 2013 Human Development Report examines the profound shift in global dynamics driven by the fast-rising new powers of the developing world and its longterm implications for human development. The rise of the South is unprecedented in its speed and scale. Never in history have the living conditions and prospects of so many people changed so dramatically and so fast, says the Report. The South as a whole is driving global economic growth and societal change for the first time in centuries. Nations in Eastern Europe and Central Asia are on the frontier of that change: Connecting the North and the rising South is the transforming East, the Report says, referring to the region. Albania is positioned among the coun-

Photo: Shkodra students interact with parliamentarians at an OSCE Presence-organized forum aimed at encouraging participative citizenry, 12 March 2013.

Korrik - March Gusht | 6

tries with a high human development 70th out of 187 countries and territories. In terms of Gender Inequality Index, that reflects gender-based inequalities in three dimensions reproductive health, empowerment, and economic activity, Albania ranks 41st out of 148 countries, UN Resident Coordinator and UNDP Resident Representative, Zineb TouimiBenjelloun highlighted during her speech. The 2013 Report makes a significant contribution to development thinking by describing specific drivers of development transformation and by suggesting future policy priorities that could help sustain such momentum, writes UNDP administrator Helen Clark in the Reports foreword. The experience of many states in Eastern Europe and Central Asia in managing a rapid transition from centrally planned to market economies holds useful lessons for developing countries elsewhere, says the Report. A major lesson from two decades of transition is that the state has a critical role in creating an environment for inclusive growth and societies. Abruptly abandoning areas of responsibility by the state or insisting on rapid privatization of all state-owned companies may prove very costly for societies in the long run...But reforms to strengthen national institutions transparency and accountability and to limit corruption are necessary to improve governance, the Report stresses. But the South faces shared challenges aging, the environment, political pressures and inequality and countries will need new domestic policy initiatives as well as international action to continue human development momentum. Many countries of the region - such as Croatia, Kazakhstan, the Russian Federation and Turkey - have become increasingly important aid donors, with disbursements exceeding $4 billion in 2011. These emerging donors are also active in bilateral or trilateral exchange of knowledge with countries with common heritage or beyond. The Report argues that the emergence of a new South is shaking up existing global institutions, creating new ones, and showing new ways that countries and regions can work together. The Report argues that the South needs greater representation, but in reformed and reimagined global institutions. Albanias HDI value for 2012 is 0.749

Photo: UNDP Director, Yesim Oruc during the presentation of 2013 Human Development Report in Tirana

in the high human development categorypositioning the country at 70 out of 187 countries and territories. Between 1985 and 2012, Albanias HDI value increased from 0.651 to 0.749, an increase of 15 percent or average annual increase of about 0.5 percent.

EU-funded project enhances the freedom of movement of passengers and goods to and from Albania
The completion of the IPA 2008 twinning between the Albanian and Italian civil aviation authorities, funded by the EU with 1 million Euro, leaves behind better conditions for the free movement of passengers and goods in and out of Albania. The results of the project Support

to Albanian Civil Aviation Safety Management System were presented in a conference organised on this occasion on 7 March 2013. By training staff, guiding the adoption of key legislation and EU standards on air safety oversight, the twinning team worked to bring Albanias civil aviation system closer to the EU one liberalised, efficient, and safe. It remains up to Albanian authorities to sustain and consolidate the efforts of the twinning and ensure faster, cheaper and safer travel for Albanian passengers and goods, as well as international passengers and businesses. During the closing ceremony, the Head of the EU Delegation to Albania, Ambassador Ettore Sequi noted the importance of a modernised air transport system for investments, trade and tourism, and therefore jobs and economic growth. Ambassador Sequi emphasised that without

Photo: Minister of Transport Sokol Olldashi, Head of the EU Delegation to Albania Ettore Sequi, and Ambassador of Italy Massimo Gaiani, at the closure conference of IPA 2008-Twinning Support to Albanian Civil Aviation Safety Management System

Korrik - March Gusht | 7

showing that the rule of law prevails, Albania cannot properly adopt and implement those EU standards that enable the EU citizen to know and demand his or her rights as a passenger if the flight is delayed or the baggage is lost, those standards that enable the EU citizen to fly much more cheaply, quickly and safely than the Albanian citizen; those EU standards that enable EU businesses to transport goods more cheaply and efficiently than Albanian businesses; those standards that have improved life in Europe. He concluded by saying that Your distance from the Single European Sky is determined by you alone by your will and concrete actions to join us. Through the EU integration process, which entails the adoption of EU standards on air transport as well, Albania will be able to ensure more, shorter and cheaper routes, less delays and more safety for passengers and businesses alike. The twinning with the Italian National Civil Aviation Authority has worked to unlock the potential of the air transport sector for investments, trade, tourism, and jobs by bringing Albanian legislation closer to that of the EU, and training the staff of the Civil Aviation Authority to carry out its safety oversight responsibilities. Upon fulfillment of the political criteria for membership and the subsequent opening of accession negotiations, Albania will stand to adopt the EU standards that have made air transport in the EU a key source of growth. The Twinning was implemented by the Italian Civil Aviation National Authority in cooperation with its Albanian counterpart for a period of 30 months. Assistance will continue through a new twinning of similar value to be launched this year. EU efforts for shorter routes, less delays and more safety continue under the initiative known as the Single European Sky.

Photo: Head of the EU Delegation to Albania Ettore Sequi at the closure conference of IPA 2008-Twinning Support to Albanian Civil Aviation Safety Management System

public participation in the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative (EITI), held in Pogradec on 19 March 2013. Representatives from local government, civil society and the mining industry attended the event and shared their views on how to make use of this initiative as a strong mechanism to promote transparency in the revenues received from the extractive industries, thereby fighting corruption and promoting a stable investment environment. During the meeting, discussions focused on the lack of transparency in the publication of contracts signed between national and international companies and the Ministry of Economy. The Presence highlighted the link between EITI and the Aarhus Convention and fostering transparency, accountability and good governance in this sector. Additional regional workshops will be held in Kukes, Vlora and Tirana in the near future.

German GIZ organizes 3rd Regional Conference on Civil Law

On 11 and 12 March 2013, GIZ through the project Open Regional Fund for South East Europe Legal Reform (ORF LR) organized in Tirana, the 3rd Regional Conference of the Civil Law Forum, in which were presented the latest findings in the area of legal reform. In 2009, well-known legal scientists from South East Europe and from Germany established the Civil Law Forum for South East Europe (CLF). Since its establishment, the forum has accompanied the legal reform process in Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Macedonia, Montenegro and Serbia. Assisted by CLF members, young researchers from the region engage

Awareness-raising on the Extractive Industries Transparency Initiative

In the framework of the Environmental Security Initiative (ENVSEC), the OSCE Presence in Albania, in cooperation with the Albanian Extractive Industry Transparency Initiative Secretariat and the Centre for Democratisation and Development of Institutions organized an awarenessraising workshop on the importance of

Photo: The 3rd Regional Conference of the Civil Law Forum, organised by GIZ through the project Open Regional Fund for South East Europe Legal Reform, on 11-12 March 2013

Korrik - March Gusht | 8

in analyzing the situation in their respective countries. This year the work of CLF was focused on the topics enforcement, autonomy of will, notaries, arbitration and antidiscrimination in the private law. The conference hosted lawyers, judges, notaries, enforcement agents and academics from Western Balkans countries and other civil law experts from all over Europe. In the course of the conference a considerable space was dedicated to the discussions and networking of legal experts and decision makers. The gathering of law practitioners highlights the need of approximation of law with EU Acquis and also a coherence of laws in the region due to increase of cooperation in legal and economic matters.

Photo: Solar panels outside the Orphan House, in Tirana enabled through the support of UNDP Climate Change Programme

Solar Water Heating systems installed at the Orphan House in Tirana

On 12 March 2013, to promote the technology of solar water heating in Albania, the Ministry of Labour, Social Affairs and Equal Opportunities/State

Social Service with support of UNDP Climate Change Programme inaugurated the instalment of solar water heating system at the Orphan House in Tirana. The system installed is coupled with monitoring equipment, which enable accurate data on its efficiency. Such data may be useful to further promote the system in Albania. General Secretary of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Energy, Dael Dervi-

shi, highlighted: During the period 2009 2013 the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Energy supported by the UNDP/GEF project has undertaken several tasks to monitor the solar thermal systems area installed so far in Albania and to predict the future market penetration for households, service and industry (public and private sector) taking into consideration the new legislation on Renewable Energy

Peaks of the Balkans hiking trail wins Tourism of Tomorrow Award with support of Germany
The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) has awarded the transboundery Peaks of the Balkans hiking trail the respected Tourism of Tomorrow award. The award ceremony took place in Abu Dhabi and was attended by former US President Bill Clinton. The 192 km circuit trail takes hikers through a contiguous mountainous region that spans Albania, Montenegro and Kosovo. All three countries have now granted national park status to the region. Working on behalf of the German Government, the GIZ assisted with the development and marketing of the hiking trail. The World Travel & Tourism Council regularly recognises best practices in sustainable tourism. The project executing agencies in the three countries are proud to have been presented with the award, which they consider an acknowledgement of the harmonious and constructive partnership between the three regions in South Eastern Europe, once an area in crisis. In his opening address Clinton underlined that tourism has the power to promote positive change in the world. Inaugurated in late 2011, the hiking trail leads through largely untouched landscapes, traditional mountain villages and glacial lakes and crosses mountain ranges reaching altitudes of up to 2,300 metres. Last year as many as 350 hikers had covered the trail on half or full day hikes. In 2013 a number of foreign tour operators also included the trail in their catalogues. On behalf of the German Government, GIZ has supported the development of sustainable mountain tourism in the Western Balkans since 2010. Hiking paths have been prepared and

Peaks of the Balkans hiking trail

widened, markers and maps provided, and tourism services on the trail, such as guesthouses, set up or improved. Local hiking guides have been trained in cooperation with the German Alpine Association. The competent authorities in the three countries have teamed up with experts from GIZ to draw up regulations that remove the red tape associated with crossing the borders. This improved access will not just make matters much easier for the tourists who come to this remote area, but will also allow inhabitants to benefit from the resulting social and economic opportunities, while preserving the regions natural resources and cultural legacy.

Korrik - March Gusht | 9

to get soon endorsed. UN Resident Coordinator and UNDP Resident Representative, Zineb TouimiBenjelloun, amongst others highlighted: The Solar Water Heating is one of the promising technologies in Albania that can reduce electricity and fuel wood consumption with a significant contribution towards greenhouse gas emission reduction. Under the Solar Water Heating Initiative, UNDP is partnering at central and local level in order to upscale initiatives like this one in the public buildings and social centres throughout Albania to support quality services to different groups in need. Deputy Minister of Environment, Forestry and Water Administration, Arben Demeti, highlighted: The use of solar panels for hot water does not bring only energy savings, but it has also a significant environmental impact due to conventional fuels savings, both oil and fuel wood, which savings in turn lead to a better air quality and to our forest conservation. While Mrs. Denada Seferi, Director of Social Policy, Ministry of Labour, Social Affairs and Equal Opportunities, said: This initiative is not only a simple energy related intervention, it impacts directly the life quality of children living here. In this line, we have adopted an action plan and a major reform to improve all social services and such a project inspires us to continue the transformation of all social care institutions. Similar Solar Thermal Systems are installed in several guesthouses in Thethi, in the building of the National Agency for Natural Resources, in several Vocational Training Centres throughout Albania, and expected to be soon installed in a number of social public buildings in Tirana, Lezha, Shkoder, Fier, Berat, etc. with the Elderly s House in Tirana being the next one. The Albanian Government with the support of UNDP through the Global Environment Facility is implementing a project which facilitates the installation of 75,000 m2 of new installed collector area over the duration of the project, an annual sale of 20,000 m2 aiming to reach the set target of 520,000 m2 of total installed SWH capacity by 2020. The greenhouse gas emissions reduction resulting from this alternative scenario has been estimated at 146,000 tons of CO2 per year in 2020 or at the cumulative amount of over 800,000 tons of CO2 by 2020.

Biogas from Waste Water Treatment Plants - German GIZ approach reduces operational costs by 50-60%
The nexus of water, energy and solid waste is an innovative approach: By blending organic waste with waste water, operative costs of utilities can be reduced by 50-60 %. In fact, rising electricity prices contribute at present to about 50 % of the operational costs of a waste water treatment plant, which could be reduced by the use of biogas. Therefore, in 2012, a delegation of institutional and political decision makers went on a study tour on biogas in the context of waste water treatment in Germany. This was followed by a training in Germany in March 2013, with the aim to install a biogas laboratory at the Polytechnic University in Tirana. Now, lecturers of this University can use the laboratory to conduct experiments and integrate biogas in the curriculum. They are able to provide advice for further initiatives and train future staff for this sector. Moreover, a cooperation agreement was signed between the Polytechnic University in Tirana and the University of Applied Sciences of Bremen, Germany. Soon, a training will be held in Germany, so that personnel of waste water treatment plants will better understand the role of anaerobic processes and the use of biogas. Due to the positive feedback from the Albanian partners, a regional workshop will be held in July 2013 to promote this innovative approach on different levels.

The Technology Transfer Biogas project funded by the German GIZ within the Water Sector Reform Programme (WSR) is part of the International Climate Initiative (as introduced in the Government Donor Dialogue Newsletter Issue No. 64, November 2012). The German Federal Ministry for the Environment, Nature Conservation and Nuclear Safety supports this initiative on the basis of a decision adopted by the German Parliament. For further information, please contact: martina.furler@giz.de

OSCE performs training needs assessment for Albanian special forces

As part of the on-going professional development in the fight against serious and organised crime and terrorism, between 4 and 8 March 2013, the OSCE Presence in Albania commenced a Training Needs Assessment with surveillance experts from Northern Ireland to look at gaps in the surveillance capabilities of both branches of the special forces. The outcome of this assessment will be training in the use of specialised covert observation posts, fieldcraft, including map and compass skills, the building and safe use of rural hides when monitoring and gathering evidence for those suspected of serious criminal activities. Of particular importance will be officer safety when engaged in the fight against suspected traffickers in drugs and weapons. Training is likely to commence in October 2013 once all training packages have been prepared and consulted with relevant stakeholders.

Photo: Albanian police special forces during a training exercise.

Korrik - March Gusht | 10

Photo: Consultations with Directors of European Integration in Line Ministries related to European Integration Units functional review conducted by SMEI 3 Project

Photo: Consultations with representatives of Ministry of European Integration related to MEI Institutional Development Plan proposed by SMEI 3 experts

EU-funded Project Support to the Government of Albanias participation in Community Programmes

On 5 March 2013, following the introduction the EU-funded Project Support to the Government of Albanias participation in Community Programmes organized in familiarizing Albanian public on citizenship and cultural programmes, the Executive Director of the Agency for Support to Civil Society (ASCS), Rudi Bobrati accompanied by the Head of the Department for Development of Programs, International Cooperation and Communication Isak Bilalli, received Mr. Maksymilian Fras, expert in EU citizenship and culture programme. The aim was to discuss and explore specifics of this program and future cooperation. Mr. Fras elaborated on the core objective of the Cultural programme highlighting the aim to enhance the cultural ties shared by Europeans, based on a common cultural heritage, through the development of cooperation activities among cultural operators in European Countries. Albania is one of the eligible countries; therefore participation of CSOs and other eligible entities is going to be beneficial and valuable. Details of the Europe for Citizens Programme were unveiled by Mr. Fras which aims at bringing Europe closer to its citizens of Albania and to enable them to participate fully in the European construction. Through this programme, citizens have the opportunity to be involved in transnational exchanges and cooperation activities, contributing to developing a sense of belonging to common European ideals and encouraging the process of European integration, Mr. Fras pointed out.

Mr. Bobrati on the other hand underlined the need for a more vibrant civil society regardless of a growing proactive engagement of civil society initiatives in Albania. On behalf of ASCS he expressed the will and commitment to assist disseminating information to CSOs in Albania and encourages them to apply and benefit from available programmes. The programme is financed by European Union through IPA program and will run until 31 January 2014.

An Institutional Development Plan for the Ministry of European Integration

SMEI 3 Technical Assistance project in cooperation with Ministry of European Integration organized during March 2013 two workshops devoted to the presentation and discussion of the conclusions of functional review and the resulting Institutional Development Plan for the Ministry of European Integration (MEI) and European Integration Units in Line Ministries prepared by the TA project. SMEI 3 project has prepared a proposal of an Institutional Development Plan for the Ministry of European Integration of the Republic of Albania up until Albanias accession to the European Union within a wider context of the executive branch of the Government of Albania. It is therefore dealing with the Government, line ministries and other agencies and organizations of European Integration related functions within these bodies. As the main elements of this institutional environment of MEI are the coordinating structures and the European Integration Units in the line institutions. A specific review was undertaken in this regard as well. It makes an integral part of this Plan. The plan is a result of a functional review of MEI based on an analysis

of (1) functions, (2) their performance, (3) processes, (4) organizational structures and (5) resources (human and material), including workload analysis, of the Ministry of European Integration. The exercise started in May 2012 and ended in March 2013. The conclusions are based on the analysis of various official documents and assessments generated by EU and bilateral technical assistance projects, structured interviews with the management and representatives of all structural units of MEI, heads of European Integration Units in line institutions and other key players in the Parliament, Government Chancellery, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, data on performance provided by MEI, workload analysis, undertaken through a specific short-term mission, and analysis of similar organizations in the former and existing EU candidate and potential candidate countries. This proposal was carried out in two separated workshops with High Representatives and managing director of Ministry of European Integration, on 15 March 2013, and with directors and representatives of the European Integration Directories from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Interior, Ministry of Agriculture, Ministry of Justice, Ministry of Transport, Ministry of Tourism, Ministry of Labour, Social Affairs, and Equal Opportunities, Ministry of Economy, Ministry of Defense, Department of Public Administration and representatives of MEI Directorate of European Secretariat, Internal Market and Justice and Home Affairs. The findings of the functional review presented by SMEI 3 expert were well received from the participants in the two activities, and there was a common agreement that the main expected result of this plan should be a better understanding of what is necessary to build the MEI capacities to perform as a candidate country and successfully

Korrik - March Gusht | 11

Photo: Working meeting with Maksymilian Fras, expert in EU citizenship and culture programme

conduct negotiations with the EU. These capacities should be demonstrated in particular to show that a) all internal co-ordination structures for European integration are established and running, b) all planning and monitoring instruments are in place c) accreditation for DIS in the area of the management of the EU assistance is completed.

In-country Missions

uisite functionalities for the successful implementation of social assistance reforms; Implementation Support Mission for the Albania Social Service Delivery Project took place from 28 February to 5 March, 2013. The aims of the mission were to: (i) review the overall project implementation, focusing on the on-going project activities, (ii) carry out field visits to check the completion of the physical rehabilitation works in selected Social Insurance Institute (SII) regional offices as well as installation and functioning of the IT equipment and furniture of the SII Archive, (iii) review progress in achieving the project development objectives; (iv) collect required information on the achievement of project indicators [working closely with the (SII) and the contracted survey firm]; and (v) carry out the last procurement review and provide procurement inputs to the project ICR.

World Bank Implementation Support Mission for the Social Assistance Modernization Project took place from 25 February to 1 March 2013. The aims of the mission were to: (i) assess the overall progress on the MIS development and related DisThe European Training Foundation, an bursement Linked Indicators, which mark agency of the EU (www.etf.europa.eu), critical steps in successful implementation will carry out in 2013 feasibility studies to of social assistance reforms supported by set up multifunctionalcentres (MFCs) in the project; and (ii) provide technical assisvocational education and training (VET) tance to the Government in completion of in Albania. Theupcoming EU IPA 2013 the required technical specifications for the VET project will then provide initial fund- MIS and ensure that they reflect the reqing tosupport 4 or 5 such schools. Turning relevant vocational schools into MFCs is one of the key prioritiesof the Ministry of Education and Science As of 1 January 2013 until 31 December 2013, the UN (UNDP) (MoES), as mentioned in thenational VET is the Chair of the Donor Technical Secretariat. Strategy 2013-2020. The 2011 AmendAll comments regarding Government-Donor Dialogue are warmly welcomed! ments to the VET law havepaved the way for establishing such MFCs. MFCs shall Want to contribute? If you would like to contribute, send your text to the Donor Technical Secretariat (DTS) Office be established within the premises of ex(nevila.como@aidharmonisation.org.al) or the Department of Strategy and Donor isting vocational schools; however, new Coordination (DSDC) (koordinimi@km.gov.al) by the 5th of every month. An ideal word buildings for workshops and other facilicount for submissions is around 100 words. ties will be required. A fully-fledged conFrequency ceptof what presents a MFC still needs to Each edition will be sent to you on the 15th of every month. be agreed. The basic intention is toopen up Who are the donors in Albania? VET schools for adult learners and to taiTo find out who are the donors operating in Albania please click here. lor education andtraining provision to the specific needs of different target groups. To unsubscribe: Please send an e-mail to Nevila omo MFCs could become valuable partners for (nevila.como@aidharmonisation.org.al ) industry in specific economic areas oroccupational clusters if they are equipped according to industrys needsand managed The Government-Donor Dialogue Newsletter is supported by the UN in Albania in collaboration with the private sector.

European Training Foundation to carry out feasibility studies to set up multifunctionalcentres in vocational education and training (VET) in Albania