In our latest meeting, we delved into key topics related to the public administration at the local level, specifically the Municipality and its dependent institutions, which employed 829 staff in 2023.
We explored some interesting statistics to understand the approach and philosophy behind the municipality’s hiring of young people (ages 18-29), particularly the dynamics between lower vs. higher positions. The goal was to uncover the power structures and trust placed in youth within local governance.
Participatory budgeting was a major focus, as we discussed the Medium-Term Budget Program (PBA) and how we can gather and provide feedback on what we believe should be top priorities in the municipal budget. We also addressed a familiar issue: the inefficiency of some institutional structures in Albania’s political system, where certain roles become complacent promoters of the institution rather than agents for systemic change.
In the second part of our meeting, we focused on the role of the Youth Local Council near the municipality and its responsibility to push forward policies that advance youth rights and opportunities. We explored the realities and challenges this structure faces, and what needs to change for it to fully fulfill its role.
