We are pleased to present the 2025 Results Report of the United Nations (UN) in Albania, showcasing the collective progress in advancing sustainable development, social inclusion and national priorities under the Government of Albania–United Nations Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework (UNSDCF) 2022–2026. The achievements highlighted in this report reflect the strength of partnerships at the heart of UN engagement the country, with government institutions at national and local levels, civil society organizations, youth and women’s groups, the private sector, academia, and international partners working together to translate policy commitments into tangible results for people and communities.
Progress across the four Cooperation Framework outcomes was translated into tangible gains in inclusive growth, social protection and human capital development. UN supported Albania in strengthening its human capital, economic resilience and governance systems in support of sustainable development and national priorities. Efforts focused on future-ready skills, stronger education-to-employment linkages and expanded access to essential services, contributing to improved learning outcomes, increased labour-force participation, particularly among women and youth, and reduced poverty and exclusion. A major milestone was the launch of the joint programme Lifelong Empowerment and Protection in Albania, funded by the UN Joint SDG Fund under the Global Accelerator on Jobs and Social Protection for Just Transitions, where Albania, as a pathfinder country, is catalysing system-level reforms by linking employment, skills and care economy pathways with social protection, introduction of a Universal Child Benefit and strengthened long-term care services.
In parallel, the UN supported Albania’s transition towards a more competitive, green and digital economy capable of generating decent work and strengthening resilience. Support to climate adaptation, disaster risk reduction, sustainable livelihoods and circular economy practices reinforced Albania’s climate commitments and competitiveness, while joint UN–EU advocacy elevated climate resilience as a national priority. These efforts contributed to integrating environmental sustainability and equity into Albania’s development and its EU accession agenda.
Significant strides were also made in strengthening governance, human rights and social cohesion. Support strengthened public administration, justice and oversight institutions, advanced anti-corruption and rule of law efforts, expanded access to justice and protected civic space. A human rights-based approach, with gender equality and labour rights at its core, helped ensure that reforms translated into tangible improvements in people’s lives and strengthened trust between institutions and citizens.
Across all outcome areas, disability inclusion, gender equality, youth engagement, and human rights remained central cross-cutting priorities. Flagship joint programmes, including Leave No One Behind, Multistakeholder Engagement to Implement the Global Accelerator on Jobs and Social Protection for Just Transitions and the World Bank Social Protection and Jobs Compass (M-GA), are expanding community-based services, strengthening inclusive social protection systems and ensuring that persons with disabilities and marginalized groups actively shape the design and delivery of services.
These efforts reflect the UN’s continued commitment to leaving no one behind while supporting the country progress toward EU integration and sustainable development. The year 2025 also marked important moments of reflection and accountability. An independent final evaluation of the Cooperation Framework was conducted, confirming the UN as a trusted, relevant and normatively grounded partner in Albania’s SDG pathway.
UN supported Albania in strengthening its human capital, economic resilience and governance systems in support of sustainable development and national priorities.
The evaluation highlighted strong alignment with national strategies and EU acquis priorities, effective joint programming and the added value of the repositioned Resident Coordinator system, while providing clear recommendations to sharpen strategic focus, strengthen national ownership and scale sustainable solutions in the next Cooperation Framework 2027–2031, currently under preparation with all partners. We extend our sincere appreciation to the Government of Albania and all partners for their trust, leadership and collaboration. As the Cooperation Framework enters its final year, we remain committed to building on these results, strengthening national ownership and supporting Albania in achieving inclusive, resilient and sustainable development for all. We invite you to explore this report and learn more about the progress achieved together in Albania in 2025.
