UN Women Marks 15 Years of Impact in Albania
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On July 2nd, UN Women, the youngest UN organization, proudly celebrates 15 years since its creation. In Albania, this milestone reflected over a decade of transformative work across sectors—strengthening women leadership and decision making, supporting their economic empowerment, ending violence against women, and leveraging public resources to foster equal opportunities among women and men, girls and boys.
Since 2010, UN Women has worked with national and local institutions, civil society, youth, academia, media, and development partners to advance women’s rights in the country.
With its partners, UN Women has contributed to establishing gender quotas and supported hundreds of women candidates to run for office. More women now serve in elected bodies and in public administration, and Albania has adopted two national action plans on Women, Peace and Security.
UN Women has also supported the economic empowerment of women, particularly in rural areas and underserved communities. By building entrepreneurial skills, improving access to resources, and supporting gender sensitive value chain development, more women are gaining financial independence and contributing to rural development.
UN Women has worked with public institutions and civil society to eliminate violence against women, strengthening legislation, expanding survivor-centered services, and supporting prevention. Targeted investments have helped over 29,000 survivors access support services, improved healthcare for more than 51,500 mothers and children, and assisted 8,000 women-headed households.
Albania is now recognized as a global leader in gender-responsive budgeting (GRB), with support from UN Women to integrate GRB into national and local planning. Public funding for gender equality increased from USD 90 million in 2017–2019 to over USD 800 million in 2025–2027, rising from 1% to 10% of the national budget. GRB now informs key sectors including education, health, agriculture, and justice, ensuring that public policies respond to the needs of all.
As UN Women celebrates 15 years of working for all women and girls, the Albanian team continues to work hand in hand with all its partners to promote inclusive policies, gender responsive investments, and the implementation of EU gender equality law in the context of the country’s EU integration journey.
UN Women is driving change in 109 countries, delivering for 4 billion women and girls—half of humanity. A global advocate, a trusted partner, and the United Nations’ engine for women’s rights and gender equality. Shaped by UN Member States and women’s movements, UN Women embodies the solidarity that the 21st century demands. Lasting partnerships, including with loyal donors and with the larger UN system, are at the heart of all UN Women achievements.