BE, 1.2 million euros in grants for civil society and groups in need in Albania

The European Union and UNDP in Albania presented 12 projects implemented by 12 civil society organizations to improve employment services and skills development for vulnerable groups in 19 municipalities in Albania.

Funded under the EU project for Labor Market Inclusion (EU4LMI), these grants aim to increase employment and skills development for groups that are not in employment, education, or training (NEET), young mothers, Roma and Egyptian communities, persons with disabilities, and beneficiaries of economic assistance.

The ceremony, held at the Vocational Technical School in Korça, a city in southeastern Albania, demonstrates a shared commitment to inclusive economic development and equal access to decent work for all Albanians.

The ceremony was attended by the European Union Ambassador to Albania, Silvio Gonzato, the UNDP Resident Representative in Albania, Randi Davis, and the mayor of Korça, Sotiraq Filo.

“With these grants funded by the EU, we are turning policy into practice, providing real opportunities for people at risk of exclusion to gain skills, find jobs, and build better lives. This initiative is part of a broader EU assistance program of 70 million euros for social inclusion in Albania, supporting the Government in advancing reforms in the social sector and aligning with EU membership requirements, particularly with Chapter 19 on social policy and employment. Because integration into the EU is not just about aligning laws, but also about building a fairer and more inclusive society where no one is left behind,” said EU Ambassador Silvio Gonzato.

“UNDP is proud of the partnership with the European Union in this strategic intervention,” said Randi Davis, UNDP Resident Representative in Albania. These projects will empower vulnerable groups with better access to the labor market.”

The grant scheme of 1.2 million euros, coordinated in collaboration with the National Employment and Skills Agency (AKPA) in Albania, will provide services according to needs over the next 16 months, focusing on three directions: Intensive Employment Counseling; Training for Basic Skills; Supported Employment and Skills Development for Persons with Disabilities.

EU4LMI, funded by the EU and implemented by UNDP in Albania in partnership with the Swedish Public Employment Service and the Albanian Foundation for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, promotes inclusive economic growth through collaboration with AKPA, line ministries, state social services, municipalities, and NGOs. (May 29)