Advocacy efforts, career guidance and new employment opportunities are bringing tangible results for persons with disabilities in Albania through the EMPOWERED project, implemented by the Albanian Disability Rights Foundation (ADRF).
Successful advocacy for more inclusive employment legislation
One of the most significant recent achievements is the positive outcome of advocacy efforts concerning proposed amendments to Albania’s Law on Employment Promotion.
Working together with a network of disability organisations, ADRF actively advocated against a proposed reduction in the employment quota for persons with disabilities. Through two official submissions and a consultation with the Ministry of Economy and Innovation, the organisations contributed to the removal of this proposed reduction from the draft amendments.
This development represents an important achievement for disability organisations and demonstrates the value of coordinated advocacy and constructive dialogue with public institutions.
The regional report developed through the EMPOWERED project, together with training on communication and advocacy, provided valuable knowledge and tools that supported these efforts.
Strengthening skills and employment opportunities
Alongside advocacy activities, ADRF continues to support persons with disabilities through psychosocial support, career guidance and vocational development.
So far, 46 psychosocial support and career guidance workshops have been organised, while 20 persons with disabilities have received a total of 185 hours of individual career guidance.
These activities help participants identify their strengths, develop professional skills, explore employment opportunities and prepare for greater participation in the labour market.
Positive outcomes are also emerging from vocational education and training (VET) and employment-related activities, demonstrating how individual support and cooperation with local stakeholders can create meaningful opportunities.
Fatjona’s journey towards employment
One encouraging example comes from Shkodra, where Fatjona has started a work placement at the Youth Centre of Shkodra Municipality, assisting students with applications and the issuance of student cards.
This opportunity was made possible through the EMPOWERED project, in cooperation with the local employment office and Shkodra Municipality.
Beyond gaining practical work experience, Fatjona is developing professional skills and building connections that may support her future employment.
ADRF and its local partners are continuing their efforts to turn this opportunity into a sustainable, long-term employment contract.
From individual opportunities to systemic change
The latest achievements in Albania highlight two complementary dimensions of the EMPOWERED project: supporting individuals in accessing employment opportunities and advocating for policies that protect and advance the rights of persons with disabilities.
By combining direct support, capacity building and cooperation with institutions, ADRF contributes to creating a more inclusive labour market and strengthening the participation of persons with disabilities in society.
EMPOWERED – Inclusion of Persons with Disabilities, Regional Cooperation and Development in the Western Balkans is funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ). In Albania, project activities are implemented by the Albanian Disability Rights Foundation (ADRF).