APS supports alumni research on policies at the local level

Thursday, September 01, 2016

The Academy of Political Studies (ASP) in collaboration with the Open Society Foundation for Albania (OSFA), are implementing a series of research and advocacy activities focus at improve policies at the local level. This program aims at further development of civic and professional engagement of the members of the alumni network  – over 250 participants from nine generations - representatives of political parties, public service, civil society, academia and  media, who act as drivers of change and promoters of the implementation of important reforms in the country.

The program supports the ideas that are innovative and demonstrate a commitment to mobilize citizens engaging or offer creative and effective strategies for the use of alternative methods of promoting civic mobilization, use of social media, etc. Following an open application process in May 2016 six best proposals were selected and benefited relevant training on research and advocacy techniques and  supported financially in their research activities and advocacy.

More specifically, the research are focused on the following issues:

  • "The transfer and use of state property by Local Government Units - challenges and perspectives" - Municipality of Tirana;
  • "Social Inclusion for the category 'ex-convict' and 'sentenced to probation' for the purpose of sustainable reintegration in their communities" - Municipality of Korca;
  • "Identifying and preventing corruption at local level" - Municipality of Kamëz;
  • " The status of new public interventions in infrastructure by the municipality of Tirana and their compliance with legal accessibility standards for persons with disabilities " - Municipality of Tirana;
  • "Strengthening the representation of communities regarding the use of public spaces in coastal areas" - Municipality of Vlora and Himara;
  • "Information about the commitment of Shkodra City Council" - Municipality of Shkodra.
The results of these research works will be promoted be public events in October - November 2016 aiming advocacy and collaboration with other stakeholders, in order to improve these important issues.