POP 2024: “POP network for Good Governance and Integrity”

Duration of the project: January - December 2024
Donor: Olof Palme International Center, with funds from the Swedish Embassy in Albania 
Overall Objective: POP Network monitor the decision-making processes and take an active role in advocating and influencing the policy debate and political agenda for the rights holder’s interest.

Specific Objectives:
SO1. POP competences and legitimacy to monitor and influence decision-making and policy agendas strengthened.
SO2. The voice and agency of citizens raised and they are organized in groups to become vocal for their rights and influence the local policy agendas.
SO3. Duty bearers involve civil society groups and organizations in decision-making and budgeting processes; the platforms of communication and cooperation with civil society groups are strengthened.
SO4. Monitoring the Social contracts that are signed in 2023, within a public forum and the duty bearers maintains a dialogue with citizens on the implementation of commitments made.

The Gender Alliance for Development Center (GADC) in Tirana is leading the development of the project.

POP Network members: 
Gender Alliance for Development Center, Tirana 
Civil Society Development Center (CSDC), Durres
Vlora Youth Center
Youth Center “New Epoch”, Fier
Young Intellectuals, Hope (IRSH), Shkodër
Youth Movement for Democracy Center, Pukë
Center for Youth Progress (CYP), Kukës
Another Vision, Elbasan
Light Steps, Vau I Dejes 
Women in Development, Korçë

Key Achievements of the POP Network in 2024
Over 3,300 unique citizens engaged through workshops, roundtables, consultations, and campaigns across 10 municipalities in Albania.
10 Monitoring Reports on the Social Contract 2023–2027 were produced, covering over 25% implementation of citizen priorities within the first year.
Public Consultation Monitoring conducted with 1,342 online surveys, 285 citizen/stakeholder interviews, and 100 interviews with municipal staff and council members. Producing 10 individual reports on the monitored municipalities. Click here to learn more 
Wider public awareness:
189,000+ citizens reached through online campaigns.
12 national and local media appearances.
3 promotional videos with local leaders.

Major Events & Conferences
National Conference on European Integration & Civic Engagement
Highlighted the role of civic participation in Albania’s EU integration, with strong advocacy for youth and marginalized group involvement, anti-corruption measures, and stronger Integrity Plans. Click here to learn more
The POP Network at the "Guardians of Democracy" Conference in Budapest. Click here to learn more 
National Conference on Transparency & Accountability in Local Governance
Shared findings from public consultation monitoring; facilitated dialogue between institutions and citizens; identified concrete solutions for inclusive and effective governance practices. Click here to learn more 
Click here to read the Comparative Legal Summary on the study in the monitored municipalities. Click the document below the read the English summary of this report

Visit the project website by following this link

POPNewsletter_March5,2024 PDF DOCUMENT Summary_November2024 PDF DOCUMENT