Albania has worked hard to shed the yoke of 46 years of communism in favor of democracy and a competitive economy. As a result of intensive efforts at both the national and local level, Albania has made significant strides in decentralization. Since 1998, the country has accepted the European Charter for Local Self-Government and has incorporated its key principles into the new Albanian constitution.
Effects from Albania’s decentralization efforts have been uneven, however. Despite the progressive legal framework the country has put in place, officials at the municipal level have not been able to exercise their new de-jure powers and responsibilities. Moreover, a lack of local capacity in management is complicated by resistance to reforms from ministries and central government agencies.
Nonetheless, some cities have moved aggressively to begin enhancing the quality of life of their citizens by delivering effective and timely services with the currently available resources. Tirana has been at the forefront of this trend. Embarking on building local skills in efficient service delivery, it has helped citizens become more engaged and willing to participate in the local decision-making process. Notable change in the local government's attitudes toward service delivery has allowed Tirana citizens to be more willing to cooperate with local authorities in creating value in the public sphere – positive changes that can be replicated in other Albanian communities.
ICMA has facilitated CityLinks partnerships between Tirana and Catawba County, North Carolina, that have helped Tirana overcome its challenges, build its management capacity, and improve services to citizens.