Networking on the Implementation of the National Youth Action Plan 2011-2012

Ministry of Tourism, Culture, Youth and Sports Ministry of Education and Sciences

Networking for the Implementation of the National Youth Action Plan 2011-2012

Publication of Documentation and Information Office for Youth Policy in Albania 2012

AYC
1

Networking on the Implementation of the National Youth Action Plan 2011-2012

Albanian Youth Council in collaboration with Ministry of Tourism, Culture, Youth and Sports Ministry of Education and Sciences

NETWORKING FOR THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE NATIONAL YOUTH ACTION PLAN 2011-2012
Publication of Documentation and Information Office for Youth Policy in Albania 2012

COPYRIGHT PUBLICATION OF DOCUMENTATION AND INFORMATION OFFICE FOR YOUTH POLICY IN ALBANIA

Networking on the Implementation of the National Youth Action Plan 2011-2012

TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. Introduction to the Albanian Youth Council
Who are we? Who can join AYC? What is our mission? Which are our objectives? Youth Structures within the Albanian Youth Council What services does AYC provide? Membership of AYC Membership Procedure

2. 3. 4. 5.

Albanian Youth Council Membership Albanian Youth Council Staff Albanian Youth Council Activities Young people in figures
Population Formal Compulsory Education Formal Secondary Education Formal Higher Education LGBT Community HIV / AIDS Youth Policy Governmental Financial Support of Youth NGOs Youth Work Non formal education recognition and integration in the formal education system. Youth Employment and Unemployment Volunteerism Scoutism in Albania Art and Culture Values Human Rights Education

6. Youth Policies, youth work and non-formal education.

Networking on the Implementation of the National Youth Action Plan 2011-2012

1. Introduction to the Albanian Youth Council

Who are we? The AYC is a nonprofit youth organization, an umbrella NGO type and its activity extends across all the Albanian territory. This national organization was created in 1994 to serve at local and national youth organizations, namely youth, and to mediate the relationship between youth and the state. Reactivated in November 20, 2010, after two years of not being active the Albanian Youth Council gathers 43 Youth NGOs, 40 members and 3 observers. Who can join AYC? National, local or international youth/youth oriented NGOs/structures. Youth Centers or Centers oriented towards youth. Youth Foundations or Foundations oriented toward youth. What is our mission? AYCs mission is to improve democratic participation of young people, empower them and to contribute in developing their skills and knowledge, by developing youth policies and by empowering youth NGOs in Albania. Which are our objectives? Represent and highlight the interests of youth To mediate for solving problems in youth work Promote mutual understanding and cooperation in joint initiatives. To influence the development and improvement of democratic processes in the country with the involvement of youth in decision making processes. To influence the development of youth legislation. To work for equal rights between boys and girls. To work against racism, national, ethnic or religious extremism, discrimination and xenophobia Youth Structures within the Albanian Youth Council: The National Students Council: Represents students in formal education 6 Local Youth Parliament (Shkodr, Durrs, Vlor, Gjirokastr, Kor, Elbasan): Representative structures for young people from 15 to 18 years old, created by the AYC (in collaboration with member associations) and UNICEF in the year 2000. During the period 2007 - 2009, the period when the AYC was non active, the Albanian Youth Parliament was dissolved in local youth parliaments. With the reactivation of the AYC, in cooperation with the Ministry of Tourism, Culture, Youth and Sports and the Ministry of Education, AYC will contribute to the rebuilding of the Albanian Youth Parliament as a national structure.

Networking on the Implementation of the National Youth Action Plan 2011-2012

What services does AYC provide? AYC provides services expertise, experience and helps in joint work of youth organizations. AYC co-operates to mediate the solving of problems in youth work. AYC highlights the interests of Albanian youth and contributes to the social formation of youth policy. AYC represents the interests of youth and youth organizations, contributes in representing the interests of youth NGOs with political institutions, the Parliament, the Government, Agencies, public opinion and organizations in Albania and abroad. AYC works to influence the development of youth legislation in Albania. Protecting and promoting youth rights Informing young people on opportunities, projects, services, etc. Offering technical assistance for public and private institutions working on youth issues: such as: technical assistance to the Municipality of Tirana for the municipality student card, drafting of local and national strategies in the youth field from central government agencies and local ones.

Networking on the Implementation of the National Youth Action Plan 2011-2012

2. Membership of Albanian Youth Council

Membership 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9. 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18. 19. 20. 21. 22. National Student Council Youth Group of Association for Consumers Protection Albanian University Sociologist Association Beyond Barriers Association Action Plus Association Human Rights Youth Group - GRDNJ Tirana Youth Centers Roma Active Albania Albanian Environmental Students Association Center for Civic Education and Participation Young European Journalist Association Amaro Drom Association Environmental Center EDEN Organization for Integration and Development OZHE Scout Albania Sanus Association Center for Population and Development Young Women in Action GRA Center for Dialogue and Promotion of European Values Refraction (Perthyerje) Albanian Volunteers Network RVSH Representative Qamil Dika Ersida Teliti Arben Loka Ana Dervishi Genci Mucollari Saimir Kasmi Silva Kola Dritan Ziu Erind Agolli Dea Dragoti Pranvera Boraka Skender Veliu Jonida Mamaj Altin Hysa Genc Anastasi Greta Iliazi Frencis Dule Erida Lazimi Anis Lamllari Shaban Sulcce Marinela Sota Ili Gerdupi Field of operation Representing Student Councils Association for consumers Research association Association for social services Health association Watch dog center Resource center Association Roma minorities Environmental association Watch dog center Media organization Association of Roma Minority Environmental center Association for social service Association for social service Scout Association Health association Health association Women organization Center inter-cultural education Minors and women in prisons Management of Volunteers Type National National National National National National National National National National National National National National National National National National National National National National

Networking on the Implementation of the National Youth Action Plan 2011-2012

23. 24. 25. 26. 27. 28. 29. Youth Center of Action Plus Tirana Pro-Albania Sportive Association Tirana Globus Association Tirana Social Club Kora Albanian Youth Shakers Tirana Art Contact Tirana Albanian Art Institute Tirana Erlind Plaku Tan Pogoni Arsen Rusta Violeta Tici Rogert Zikaj Andi Tepelena Argyrina Jubani Bajana Ceveli Gjon Nikolli Albana Dule Dorina Xhoga Eglantina Gjini Zoje Jaka Blendi Dibra Elidon Lamani Migena Disha Sanije Fatkoja Tirana Youth Centers Center psychosocial treatment Sportive association Association for social service Association for social service Association for entrepreneurs Art and culture association Art and Culture Center LYC of local youth association Inter-cultural education Health association Media organization Foundation for social service Association for social service Association for social service Resource center Health association Center psychosocial treatment Students in high schools Local Local Local Local Local Local Local Local Local Local Local Local Local Local Local Local Local Local

30. Council of Youth Association Durres 31. 32. Friendship and Collaboration with Europe Tirana Youth Forum of Social Health Tirana

33. Association for Media Development Peshkopia 34. Foundation ZMIMCS Gjirokastra 35. Albanian Youth Integration Lezha 36. Association Young Intellectuals Hope Shkodra 37. Vlora Youth Centers Vlora 38. Organization of Future Medics OMA Tirana 39. Association for PsychoSocial Development for Children El 40. 6 Youth Parliaments - Sh, Dr, El, Vl, Gj, Ko 41. 42. 43. 44. OBSERVER MEMBERS European Law Student Association ELSA Association Students Youth Institute of Roma Culture

Sofjan Jaupaj Andi Shkira Bledar Taho

International organization Students club Roma Communities in Albania

International National National

Networking on the Implementation of the National Youth Action Plan 2011-2012

Membership Procedures Membership of organizations with full rights, including waiting members as a transitional period All youth organizations that wish to become member organizations of AYC must follow the following procedure: Send a scanned copy of the following documents to: albyouthcouncil@gmail.com; A. A declarative request in the AYC secretary, accompanied by: 1. For registered NGOs copies of the legalizing act and statute For Organizations recognized under a special law or certain rules adopted and approved by the Albanian state - should submit either a document certifying the legal correctness according to the procedures, issued by a recognized authority for this competency or of a document which confirms the legal correctness issued by the appropriate elective forums. 2. A brief overview of the activities performed and perspective plans. 3. A document which defines the persons who are representatives or contact persons of the organization at the Albanian Youth Council B. The procedure of reviewing of the request for membership, from the moment of submitting the request for membership lasts the time between the two meetings of the National Board of Youth Policy. In the case that the next meeting after the request is the General Assembly and not the National Board of Youth Policy, then the request is reviewed by the Board in the early day of the meeting of the General Assembly. C. An organization can gain the member status if it meets the conditions from the National Board of Youth Policy. For this is sufficient that the NBYP votes and if the conditions are met the organization automatically becomes a member. In cases that the applying organization doesnt gain the member status and considers unfair the decision of the National Board of Youth Policy, than they can appeal to the General Assembly, which is obliged to consider the appeal. It belongs to the membership to evaluate if the organization is eligible or not. If an organization meets the conditions it automatically becomes a member and gains all the rights of a member under this statute. The recognizing of the Observers Status 1. The Observers status is recognized to a subject that requests this status by a official written document. 2. The authority who has the right to recognize that status is the National Board of Youth Policy. If the National Board of Youth Policy considers it necessary can require to the interested subject any kind of documentation but it is the right of the interested subject to accept or not these conditions.

Networking on the Implementation of the National Youth Action Plan 2011-2012

3. Albanian Youth Council Staff!

Governing body Our governing body is the National Board of Youth Policy, which is elected by all the members (representatives from Youth NGOs Member or NGOs Member related to Youth) of the Albanian Youth Council Board members: First name last name Argyrina Jubani Silvana Loka Pranvera Borakaj Qamil Dika Erind Agolli Saimir Kasmi Skender Dule Erlind Plaku Jonida Mamaj Rogert Zikaj Marin Elbasani Dritan Ziu Altin Hysa Erida Lazimi Arsen Rusta Position Chair Vice Chairwoman Vice Chairwoman Vice Chairman Vice Chairman Vice Chairman Board member Board member Board member Board member Board member Board member Board member Board member Board member Field of operation Youth participation and decision taking Social services for youth Media Student representation Technologies of communication Rights of youth Health services Issues of illegal substances and HIV/AIDS Environment issues Transparence and information Participations to voting Volunteering and youth work Participation of youth to rural areas Art, culture, free time Values and way of living

Where our organization operated: The Albanian Youth Council has one headquarter unit plus other operating bases: Head office: Tirana (Central Office which covers also the Tirana District) Local units: Shkoder, (Local office which covers Shkodra District, Kukes District, Dibra District, Lezha District) Durres, (Local office which covers Durres District) Vlore, (Local office which covers Vlora District, Fier District, Berat District) Elbasan, (Local office which covers Elbasan District) Gjirokaster, (Local office which covers Gjirokastra District) Korce (Local office which covers Korca District)

Networking on the Implementation of the National Youth Action Plan 2011-2012

Staff: Staff of AYC Full Time: 9 (2 covered directly by the AYC, 7 covered from 7 local youth NGOs, member of AYC) Part Time: 22 (2 covered directly by AYC, 20 covered from 11 local youth NGOs, member of AYC) Volunteer Contributors of the AYC Volunteers: 120 (Volunteers of AYC) Experts: 11 (Members of the National Board of Experts of Youth Policies) Councilors: 9 (The Advisory Board ) Youth Structures within the Albanian Youth Council: The National Students Council: Is a new structure that represents all Albanian students. 6 Local Youth Parliament (Shkodr, Durrs, Vlor, Gjirokastr, Kor, Elbasan): Representative structures for young people from 15 to 18 years old, created by the AYC (in collaboration with member associations) and UNICEF in the year 2000. During the period 2007 2009, the period when the AYC was non active, the Albanian Youth Parliament was dissolved in local youth parliaments. With the reactivation of the AYC, in cooperation with the Ministry of Tourism, Culture, Youth and Sports and the Ministry of Education, AYC will contribute to the rebuilding of the Albanian Youth Parliament as a national structure. Important Celebration Days of the AYC: International Day of Social Justice???? International Labor Day: 1 May Europe Day: 9 May International Youth Day: 12 August International Student Day: 17 November National Independent Day: 28 November International Day of Volunteerism: 5 December National Youth Day: 8 December National Youth Days: 25 November 10 December

10

Networking on the Implementation of the National Youth Action Plan 2011-2012

4. Albanian Youth Council Activities and Programs 2011 - 2012

Period Program Description December 2011 January 2013 Academy of Youth Policy for Young People The Academy of Youth Policy for Young Leaders is a one year program, launched from the Albanian Youth Council on the 8 th of December 2011. The Program is divided in two semesters. The first Semester Young Leaders, Policies and Institutions and the second Semester Capacity Building for Young Leaders. This course will examine the fundamentals of a democratic society and the ways for participating in the decision-making process, concentrating in youth policies and responsible active young leaders. Through this introduction to the field students will explore the ethical, professional and historical elements of youth empowerment and leadership for a qualitative participation in a democratic society. At the end of the course students will gain ethical, historical and juridical information on ways of participation in a democratic society on national, European and international level. Students will also gain skills in leadership, management, evaluation and other elements needed to become a young leader and a responsible citizen. 120 young leaders from youth NGOs/structures, public institutions, political youth forums and students councils have been selected to participate in The Academy. The Academic Staff, composed from national and international experts, politicians, diplomats and representatives of public institutions will use formal and non-formal education methods. Each lesson will be filmed so to create online multimedia learning modules (audio and video). Elearning is a very used tool in this days and while in Albania this is the first Educational Course on Youth Policy it is very important to raise the number of beneficiaries of the Academy of Youth Policy for Young Leaders, because the number of participants of the Academy cannot be more than 120 young people. This course will facilitate the European Integration of Albania in the youth field and will make possible the reformation of the youth sector in this country. AYC Co-Partners National Students Council NSC Tirana Youth Center AYC & MTCYS Center for Documentation and Research for Youth Policy in Albania (part of AYC) 11

Organizers

Networking on the Implementation of the National Youth Action Plan 2011-2012

Supports

Media coverage Participation Participation of Public Actors and Stakeholders

Geographic areas

Institutional Partners: Ministry of Tourism, Culture, Youth and Sports, Ministry of Education and Science AYC National Students Council NSC Ministry of Tourism, Culture, Youth and Sports, Ministry of Education and Science 9 TVs, 3 newspapers, 5 online news agencies, FB, YouTube, 120 young activist of civil society, public servants, journalists The Stakeholders who have participate until now: Ministry of Education, Ministry of Tourism, Culture, Youth and sports, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Tirana Municipality, Ministry of Defense, Ministry of Labor and Social Issues Equal Opportunities, Commissioner for Protection of Personal Data, ILO, Microsoft, Ministry of European Integration Tirana

12

Networking on the Implementation of the National Youth Action Plan 2011-2012

Period Program: Description: Organizers: Supports: Media coverage: Participation: Participation of Public Actors and Stakeholders: Geographic areas Period Program Description Organizers Supports Media coverage Participation Participation of Public Actors and Stakeholders Geographic areas Period Activities Description Organizers Supports Media coverage Participation Geographic areas

Since 2010 Tirana Youth Center and Documentation and Information Office for Youth Policy in Albania Services, technical assistance and support for Youth NGOs and youth activists AYC and Ministry of Culture Youth and Sports Ministry of Culture Youth and Sports 12 TVs, 5 newspapers, 5 online news agencies, FB 600 young people and 28 Youth NGOs and related to youth Ministry of International Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Education, Ministry of Tourism, Culture, Youth and Sports, Directory for Youth and Sport of Tirana Municipality, 3 academic institutions Tirana Since 2010 Information and orientation of young people for free movement in Schengen Zone Online information and call center information for young people for free movement in Schengen Zone: www.paviza.al AYC Agency for Civil Society Support 5 TVs, 2 newspapers, 4 online news agencies, FB About 12000 young people Ministry of International Affairs, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Education and Sciences, Ministry of Tourism, Culture, Youth and sports, National level Since 9 May 2011 Caf d Europe Non formal debate and party for euro integration of Albanian society AYC AYC, NTV Television NTV Television 30 NGOs, 80 activist of civil society, civil servants, public figures, journalists, etc Tirana

13

Networking on the Implementation of the National Youth Action Plan 2011-2012

Period Activities Description Organizers Supports Media coverage Participation Participation of Public Actors and Stakeholders Geographic areas Period Program Description

28 November -10 December 2010 Youth Week, National Independence Day, International Day against HIV/AIDS, National Youth Day, Human Rights Day Seminars, round tables, conferences, voluntarism awards, exposition, public debate TV, info day desk, kinoforum, movie projection, youth party, training seminars AYC, Beyond Barriers, Ministry of Tourism, Culture, Youth and Sports, Ministry of Education and Sciences, National Student Council, Action Plus Association, Consumers Protection Office, Albanian Art Institute AYC, Beyond Barriers, Ministry of Tourism, Culture, Youth and sports, Agency for Civil Society Support, Consumers Protection Office, Action Plus Association 7 TVs, 4 newspapers, 3 online news agencies, FB About 2000 young people Ministry of Education, Ministry of Tourism, Culture, Youth and Sports, Agency for Civil Society Support Tirana Since December 2010 Drafting of the bill for voluntarism Drafting and Presentation and group discussion of draft law for voluntarism/ creation of civil society lobbing network (this event was also part of the project values of the volunteerism and practices in the service of people with disabilities in Albania funded by EU) Beyond Barriers, AYC, Ministry of Tourism, Culture, Youth and Sports, Ministry of Education and Sciences, National Student Council Beyond Barriers, Ministry of Tourism, Culture, Youth and Sports 4 TVs, 2 newspapers, 2 online news agencies, FB 48 NGOs, 3 public institutions, 210 civil society activists and leaders, experts, lawyers, civil servants, journalist, Ministry of Education, Ministry of Tourism, Culture, Youth and Sports, Ministry of Labor and Social Issues Equal Opportunities, Agency for Civil Society Support, UNV, Peace Corps, Don Bosko, Tirana

Organizers Supports Media coverage Participation Participation of Public Actors and Stakeholders Geographic areas

14

Networking on the Implementation of the National Youth Action Plan 2011-2012

Period Activity Description Organizers Supports Media coverage Participation Participation of Public Actors and Stakeholders Geographic areas Period Activity Description Organizers Supports Participation of Public Actors and Stakeholders Geographic areas Period Activities Description Organizers Supports Media coverage Participation Participation of Public Actors and Stakeholders Geographic areas

April 2011 Youth Voices Public poll on student perception for application of student and youth card in local, national, European and international level AYC and National Student Council Agency for Civil Society Support 6 TVs, 5 newspapers, 5 online news agencies, FB 400 students, 200 business

Tirana December October 2011 Support for Tirana Municipality Student Card Technical Assistance for Tirana Municipality for designing of capacity building for Tirana Municipality Student Card and feasibility study AYC and Directory of Youth and Sport of Tirana Municipality AYC Directory of Youth and Sport of Tirana Municipality, Ministry of Education and Sciences, Ministry of Tourism, Culture, Youth and Sports, Microsoft, Credins Bank, Posta Shqiptare sh.a., Ministry of Transports and Public Works, Tirana Chamber of Commerce, Tirana 5 December 2011 International Volunteer Day 2011 Round table, Annual Voluntarism Awards, public presence in TV AYC, UNV, Ministry of Tourism, Culture, Youth and Sports, AYC 5 TVs, 2 newspapers, 6 online news agencies, FB 50 young activist of civil society, journalists, public figures Ministry of Education, Ministry of Tourism, Culture, Youth and Sports, Agency for Civil Society Support, Directory for Youth and Sport of Tirana Municipality, Ministry of Labor and Social Issues Equal Opportunities, Peace Corps, Don Bosko, Tirana

15

Networking on the Implementation of the National Youth Action Plan 2011-2012

Period Activities Description Organizers Supports Media coverage Participation Participation of Public Actors Geographic areas Period Activity Description Organizers Supports Media coverage Participation Participation of Public Actors and Stakeholders Geographic areas

12 August 2011 Celebration of International Youth Day Live concert in public square in Tirana, seminars, workshops, youth fair in public square, press conference, Women's Professional Soccer in public square, exposition, info desk, etc AYC, Tirana Municipality, Ministry of Tourism, Culture, Youth and Sports, ELSA, SANUS, Rinia Studentore, National Student Council, UNV, Tirana Municipality, Ministry of Tourism, Culture, Youth and Sports, AGNA Group, Agency for Civil Society Support, UNV, UNFPA, Posta Shqiptare sh.a., UAM, etc 14 TVs, 3 newspapers, 5 online news agencies, FB, YouTube, 800 young people and citizens Tirana Municipality, Ministry of Tourism, Culture, Youth and Sports, UNV Tirana 23 February 2012 International Day for Social Justice National Conference: Social Justice National Conference with presentation of concepts and practices of social justice AYC and Albanian University AYC and Albanian University 3 TVs, 2 newspapers, 3 online news agencies, FB 90 young activist of civil society, public servants, journalists Ministry of Education, Tirana Municipality, Ministry of Labor and Social Issues Equal Opportunities, ILO, Albanian University Tirana

16

Networking on the Implementation of the National Youth Action Plan 2011-2012

Period Activity Description Organizers Supports Media coverage Participation Participation of Public Actors and Stakeholders Geographic areas Period Activitiy Description Organizers Supports

8 December 2011 National Conference for Youth Policy and launching of Academy of Youth Policy for Young People Presentation of Youth Policy of public Institutions, European Union in Albania, Youth Organization AYC and Ministry of Tourism, Culture, Youth and Sports AYC and Ministry of Tourism, Culture, Youth and Sports 12 TVs, 6 newspapers, 5 online news agencies, FB 120 young activists, representatives from important institutions EU Delegation in Albania, Albanian Parliament, Ministry of Tourism, Culture, Youth and sports, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Education, Tirana Municipality, Tirana 3-9 April 2012 Model ALB@NATO 2012 Simulation Game on NATO decision making for young leader and student of international relations and law education AYC and Ministry of Defense AYC and Ministry of Defense, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Association of North Atlantic, Academy of Defense, Special Forces Military Basis of Zal Herr, Albanian Representative Unit in NATO Headquarter, the Center of Culture, Media and Publication of Military Publication 11 TVs, 3 newspapers, 5 online news agencies 120 students of Academy for Youth Policy for Young Leaders and student of international relations and law education Ministry of Defense, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Association of North Atlantic, Academy of Defense, Special Forces Military Basis of Zal Herr, Albanian Representative Unit in NATO Headquarter, the Center of Culture, Media and Publication of Military Publication Tirana

Media coverage Participation Participation of Public Actors and Stakeholders Geographic areas

17

Networking on the Implementation of the National Youth Action Plan 2011-2012

Period Program Description

Organizers

Supports Media coverage Participation Participation of Public Actors and Stakeholders Geographic areas Period Program Description

2012 April August THE YOUTHS RIGHTS AT WORK CAMPAIGN The Albanian Youth Council with the support of the Trade Unions and ILO (in the framework of Joint Program of the UN on Youth Employment and Migration) organized 8 Trainings of Trainers, respectively 4 in Tirana, 2 in Kukes and 2 in Shkoder with a tot of 212 participants representatives of youth NGOs, educational system, trade unions, public institutions, network of Social Workers, students of different Universities and Faculties, etc. AYC, ILO in the framework of Joint Program of the UN on Youth Employment and Migration), Trade Unions, Ministry of Education and Sciences, Ministry of Labor and Social Issues Equal Opportunities, Albanian Volunteers Network, Beyond Barriers ILO in the framework of Joint Program of the UN on Youth Employment and Migration) 8 TVs, 2 Radios, 4 newspapers, online news agencies, FB, YTube, etc 212 youth workers, 2400 students of high schools and universities ILO in the framework of Joint Program of the UN on Youth Employment and Migration), Trade Unions, Ministry of Education and Sciences, Ministry of Labor and Social Issues Equal Opportunities Districts: Tirana, Kukes, Shkodra 2012 From April Advocacy Office for Young People Albanian Youth Council, 7 youth NGOs and the Union of Independent Trade Unions of Albania in partnership with the Ministry of Tourism, Culture, Youth and Sports, the Ministry of Education and Science have created the Advocacy Office for Young People, an office that will be responsible for counseling, orienting and representing young people for protecting their rights. Albanian Youth Council, National Student Council, Beyond Barriers, Action Plus, Roma Active Albania, Perthyerje, Independent Trade Unions of Albania, Consumers Protection Office, Albanian Youth Council, 7 youth NGOs and the Union of Independent Trade Unions of Albania in partnership with the Ministry of Tourism, Culture, Youth and Sports, the Ministry of Education and Science 6 TVs, 4 newspapers, 3 online news agencies, FB, YouTube, etc 40 young people and 9 Youth NGOs Ministry of Tourism, Culture, Youth and Sports, the Ministry of Education and Science Tirana, Durres, Vlora, Shkodra, Elbasan 18

Organizers Supports Media coverage Participation Participation of Public Actors Geographic areas

Networking on the Implementation of the National Youth Action Plan 2011-2012

Period Activities Description

Organizers

Supports Media coverage Participation Participation of Public Actors and Stakeholders Geographic areas Period Activity Description Organizers Supports Media coverage Participation Participation of Public Actors and Stakeholders Geographic areas

1 May 2012 International Worker Day: National Conference on THE YOUTHS RIGHTS AT WORK CAMPAIGN AYC, ILO in the framework of Joint Program of the UN on Youth Employment and Migration), Trade Unions, Ministry of Education and Sciences, Ministry of Labor and Social Issues Equal Opportunities, Albanian Volunteers Network, Beyond Barriers AYC, ILO in the framework of Joint Program of the UN on Youth Employment and Migration), Trade Unions, Ministry of Education and Sciences, Ministry of Labor and Social Issues Equal Opportunities, Albanian Volunteers Network, Beyond Barriers ILO in the framework of Joint Program of the UN on Youth Employment and Migration) 8 TVs, 2 Radios, 4 newspapers, online news agencies, FB, YouTube.. 400 students of high schools and universities ILO in the framework of Joint Program of the UN on Youth Employment and Migration), Trade Unions, Ministry of Education and Sciences, Ministry of Labor and Social Issues Equal Opportunities Tirana 9 - May 2012 ALB@MEU 2012 Simulation Game on EU Institution decision making for young leader and student of international relations and law education AYC and Ministry of Foreign Affairs AYC, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Tourism, Culture, Youth and Sports, 3 TVs, 1 newspapers, 2 online news agencies, FB 120 students of Academy for Youth Policy for Young Leaders and student of international relations and law education Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Tourism, Culture, Youth and Sports, Tirana

19

Networking on the Implementation of the National Youth Action Plan 2011-2012

Period Activities Description

Organizers Supports Media coverage Participation Participation of Public Actors and Stakeholders Geographic areas

12 August 2012 International Day of Youth 12 August 2012 International Youth Day: Launching of the Practical Guideline on Young People Self Employment, Youth Entrepreneurship. Participating 13 NGOs, Deputy Minister of Education and Science. The Guideline realized from the ILO and Business Albania was launched in collaboration with the Albanian Youth Council and distributed to 13 NGO present at the launching even, representatives of the National Student Council and young people from different backgrounds. In the same day a Coalition was set up, between the present actors and stakeholders in order to train at least 1000 young people living in Tirana, on Youth Entrepreneurship AYC, ILO in the framework of Joint Program of the UN on Youth Employment and Migration), Business Albania Association, Ministry of Education and Sciences ILO in the framework of Joint Program of the UN on Youth Employment and Migration) 4 TVs, 2 newspapers, online news agencies, FB, YouTube, etc 30 representative from 10 Youth NGOs ILO in the framework of Joint Program of the UN on Youth Employment and Migration), Ministry of Education and Sciences, Business Albania Association Districts: Tirana, Shkodra, Kukes, Durres

For any information concerning your participation please write an e-mail to us: albyouthcouncil@gmail.com; Follow us on Facebook: Profile http://www.facebook.com/keshillirinor?ref=ts; Group: http://www.facebook.com/keshillirinorshqiptar?ref=ts; Group: http://www.facebook.com/groups/punesimirinor/?ref=ts; Follow us on www.keshillirinor.al, www.punesimi.info; www.paviza.al;

20

Networking on the Implementation of the National Youth Action Plan 2011-2012

5. Albania, young people in figures!

Population According to 2010 statistics of INSTAT, the general population of Albania is 3 194 417 people, 1 076 032 of them are young people aged 15-34 years old, (33.7 %) of whom 536 231 (49.8) are males and 539 801 (50.2) are females. Children aged 0 - 4 years are 747 436 people, 23.3% of the population. In this regard Albania has a very young population.1 Young people under the age of 35 years old constitute about 60% of the Albanian population, which is listed as a young state 2. Based on the statistical data on births from 1990 to 2008 the number of live births in Albania has decreased significantly. In 1990 total live births was 82 125 (42 564 men and 39 561 women), while in 2008 the number of live births has fallen to 36 251 (19 113 Males and 17138 Females). While there is a decline in infant mortality where in 1990 there were 2321 cases in 2008, infant mortality has dropped to 217 cases.3 Also according to INSTAT for this period there is a is a decrease in the average number of children per woman, this also due to high immigration of the population in fertile age, the increase in the average age of marriage for both women and men and because of using methods of family planning.4 Albania has a positive relation between birth and death, in 2008 the rate was 11:39 births and deaths coefficient 5.01, but despite this when compared to 1998 where the rate was 19.7 births and 6.0 deaths we realize that the overall increase of population has been declining, because despite the reduction coefficient of death, we had a greater drop coefficient of births. In 2008, the largest number of deaths was recorded in the age group over 60 years, while deaths in the 15-34 years age group in 2008 comprised 3.7% of cases. The average of life duration in 2008 is 75.3, where the average age for men is 72.9 and for women 77.8.5 The National Strategy for Children shows that 402 orphans with social problems are living in public residential institutions, about 200 children living in non-public residential centers and about 16 000 estimated number of orphans without parents or with one parent living in the households or in the community.6 Currently, in Albania the average of school attendance was 11.9 years, which is explained by the low level of secondary education enrollment. There is also a large variation in terms of provinces, rural areas, etc. For example there is an increase of 3.5 years in the average of school attendance in Tirana when compared to the average of the Republic. At the end of 2009, the total number of unemployed registered was 144,766 (50.8 per cent women), Young people 15 to 24 represented 19.8 per cent of the total number of unemployed. At the end of

http://www.instat.gov.al/al/themes/popullsia.aspx; www.instat.gov.al; 3 http://www.instat.gov.al/al/themes/popullsia.aspx; 4 http://www.instat.gov.al/al/themes/popullsia.aspx; 5 http://www.instat.gov.al/al/themes/popullsia.aspx; 6 http://www.mpcs.gov.al/strategji-standarte;

1 2

21

Networking on the Implementation of the National Youth Action Plan 2011-2012

2009, the share of young unemployed belonging to vulnerable groups (Roma people, women trafficked, persons with disabilities and others) was 4.8 per cent of all youth registered.7 There are no data on the registration of young people based on their ethnicity. But the Albanian population is considered a largely homogeneous population where 95% are Albanian, 3% Greek population and 2% other.8 The report between young people living in urban areas and those in rural areas is unknown, but based on INSTAT data for 2004, 45% of the population lives in cities. Studies by Open Date Albania declared that in future projections there is an abandonment of rural areas and predominantly increase of urban population in the country. 9 Formal Compulsory Education According to the data obtained in the National Pre-University Strategy 2009 - 2013, during 2007 2008, enrollments in the basic compulsory education (9-years) were recorded in 92% of the total number of children, 57% of young people enrolled in the secondary education (high schools), among which 19% of them were enrolled in vocational schools. Dropping out of school for the basic compulsory education in Albania results in figures 0.94%, so it is relatively low.10 Dropping out of school is a phenomenon of the children in need, especially Roma children. Actually there are about 5,000 Roma children aged 3-16 years. Enrollment of children of this community in school at the age specified by law, is low. Only 27% of children aged 6 currently attend first grade. 1 from 2 Roma children of school age (6-16 years) has dropped out school. 54% of Roma children of compulsory school age (6-16 years) have not completed any school class. 43% of Roma children in the age group 15-16 years are illiterate. The phenomenon is even more troubling for Roma girls. Roma girls' school in the attendance declines after age 11 years were significantly higher than those of men (12 years of age Roma girls attend school at a rate of 23% less than men). Problem also constitutes with children of families with low income, living in remote areas, girls in areas with traditional backward mentality and other social problems.11

http://www.un.org.al/editor-files/file/National%20Action%20Plan%20-%20ENG%281%29.pdf, pg. 83, 84; 8 see: www.mfa.gov.al; 9 www.open.data.al/lajme/lajm/id/260/Popullsia-urbane-dhe-rurale-ne-vitet-1950-2050; 10 http://mash.gov.al/File/Ministria/Politik_dhe_Strategji/Final%20SKAP%20korrik%202009.pdf; 11 http://mash.gov.al/File/Ministria/Politik_dhe_Strategji/Final%20SKAP%20korrik%202009.pdf; 22

7

Networking on the Implementation of the National Youth Action Plan 2011-2012

Formal Secondary Education In 2008 2009, in the secondary education the number of pupils has increased to 80% of students who completed primary education, compared to 71% figure that was registered in the school year 2003 - 2004. It should be noted that the actual rate of transition from basic compulsory education into the secondary education is still considered low, compared with European standards (95 - 100%). Student ratio in general secondary education / vocational education students is 81 to 19.12 During 2009 2010, 439995 pupils were enrolled in basic compulsory education, among which 211,142 were females and 228,853 males, 224,781 of them were registered in the elementary level (first stage of basic education) and 215214 at the higher level (second stage of basic education). In the same year there were 52029 graduated in the basic education of which (25667 females and 26362 males), 26813 in urban areas (13243 females and 13570 males) and 25216 (12424 females and 12792 males) in rural areas. 13 During 2009 2010, 140657 pupils were enrolled in the public secondary education, of which 120651 pupils (59662 females and 60989 males) were enrolled in the General Public Schools and 20006 pupils (6192 females and 13814 males) were enrolled in the Public Vocational Schools. In the same year 34823 pupils (18727 females and 16096 males) were graduated in the public secondary education, of which 29984 (16450 females and 13534 males) were graduated in the General Public Schools and 4839 ( 2277 females and 2562 males) were graduated in the Public Vocational Schools.14 Formal Higher Education Regarding Higher Education, the number of students enrolled in public and private universities during 2009 - 2010 esht116292 persons, among whom 52162 males and 64130 females. During this year 95,449 persons were registered in Public Universities and 20843 Private Universities. In Albania there is a pronounced preference for attending public universities, not only for financial reasons but also because of safety and providing quality public universities. Private universities are mainly registered in the form of private profit business. In the recent years a very good job have been developed from the Ministry of Education and Science (MES) to encourage the achievement of standards in these universities, and the situation somehow have been improved. MES has been preparing an Action Plan for 2012 which provides for the improvement of standards of higher education in Albania through: raising the student loan system, establishment of University Electronic Information Management System (EMIS) as well as through necessary changes in the legal framework for the implementation of the financial reform and the provision of extensive autonomy of institutions of higher education in all levels: institutional, academic, financial and administrative.15 With the implementation of these projects will begin the realization of a new funding model for the Universities. In the first stage, the model will be applied only in public universities, so for it to be consolidated. But during the first phase, Private Higher Education Institutions will benefit from funding http://mash.gov.al/File/Ministria/Politik_dhe_Strategji/Final%20SKAP%20korrik%202009.pdf; http://www.instat.gov.al/al/themes/arsimi.aspx; 14 http://www.instat.gov.al/al/themes/arsimi.aspx; 15 http://mash.gov.al/njoftim.php?id1=12&id=224;
12 13

23

Networking on the Implementation of the National Youth Action Plan 2011-2012

for research, scholarships for excellence for young professors and excellent graduates. In a second stage, the model will provide the opportunity to private Higher Education Institutions to compete for quota students approved in priority areas. Private Higher Education Institutions must have completed first the two conditions set (non-profit status certified by audit agencies and quality accreditation under the new standards).16 If implemented, this reform will be a very good way to encourage the establishment of Private Universities profit. According to INSTAT data on enrollment in Public Faculties in 2009-2010, there are three favorite branches of Public Universities: Economics 8893 students, followed by Law with 4868 students and Natural Sciences with 4023 students. LGBT Community There are very few studies available for the LGBT community and also very few studies on social attitudes towards this community. The institution responsible for protecting them from discrimination is the Commissioner for Protection from Discrimination.17 According to a survey conducted by an organization that protects LGBT community in Albania most of the members of this community who accept their sexual orientation to a member of the family or social circle are 18 - 28 years old.18 According to this study, homosexual orientation is not accepted by the Albanian families, this because of the patriarchal structure. However great efforts have been made to protect their rights. The Ministry of Labor, Social Affairs and Equal Opportunities established a working group to take measures to protect LGBT people from discrimination because of their sexual orientation and gender identity. Also during these years there has been a strengthening of NGOs in protecting the rights of the LGBT community, associations such as Pink Embassy and LGBT Pro Albania are present, in press coverage, and on the field. HIV / AIDS Based on data recorded by the end of 2009, we can say that Albania remains a country with low prevalence of HIV. Most cases of HIV in Albania are diagnosed among women and men aged 25-44 years. Up to 2009 identified only 16 cases of transmission from mother to child. 19

http://mash.gov.al/njoftim.php?id1=12&id=224 Ligji Nr. 10 221, date 04.02.2010 Pr mbrojtjen nga diskriminimi; 18 Survey research with the LGTB Community in Albania, Konferenca Debati II pr t Drejtat e Njeriut n Shqipri, 11 Dhjetor 2009; 19 Studimi Demografik dhe Shndetsor n Shqipri 2008 2009, Fq. 218 24
16 17

Networking on the Implementation of the National Youth Action Plan 2011-2012

6. Youth Policies, youth work and non-formal education.

Youth Policy In Albania there is no general approved definition of youth nor age range, this is the cause why different institutions / donors are working with different age limits. The basic documents on young people are the Albanian Constitution and the National Youth Strategy 2007 - 2013, approved by Decision 782, dt.16.11.2006, but there are a set of laws that govern the treatment of young people in areas such as: education, health, employment, social services, etc. Youth Policy is defined and coordinated from the Directory of Youth Policy in the Ministry of Tourism, Culture, Youth and Sports in collaboration with youth NGOs, through the National Youth Strategy 2007 2013 and its National Action Plan. The approach of the Albanian government towards the development of youth policies reflects a keen interest in designing cross-cutting policies that take a long-term view on the issue of youth development. The Albanian Government puts at the center of its strategy in the youth field the development of these cross-cutting policies, comprehensive and longterm visions. These policies in their fundaments are based on the instructions from the "World Programme of Action for Youth from 2002 onwards," of the United Nations and the "White Paper Policy" of the Council of Europe.20 Since 2010 the work Ministry of Tourism, Culture, Youth and Sports, General Directorate of Youth and Sport. (www.mtkrs.gov.al) is guided by: The National Youth Strategy 2007 2013 (http://www.mtkrs.gov.al/web/Rinia_5_1.php) The Council of Europes Recommendations included in the document of Youth Policy Review* in Albania for 2010-2013 (http://www.coe.int/t/dg4/youth/Source/IG_Coop/YP_Albania_en.pdf) together with the Roadmap on the implementation of these recommendations. The first created national youth network after the 90s was the Albanian Youth Council, which now days is the representative body of 40 youth NGOs in Albania. Today it is very difficult to determine the number of youth NGOs in Albania since many of the non-profit youth organizations legally registered are completely inactive, and vice versa several unregistered groups of young people are active in youth movements or other forms of organizations without being officially registered. Legislation treats youth NGOs like any other NGO, according to the Law 8788, dated 07.05.2001, "For Non-Profit Organizations", amended.21 In order to acquire legal personality after being established youth NGOs must be registered in the Tirana District Court, in accordance with conditions and procedures provided by law. These organizations in order to obtain financial support for their projects or initiatives are required to obtain identification number (VAT) in the General Directorate of Taxation, according to a procedure provided for by the legislation in force. 22 In Albania there are many youth organizations, which are very active in social and public life. The Albanian Youth Council is the http://www.unicef.org/albania/National_Youth_Strategy.pdf; Ligji 8788, date 07.05.2001, Pr Organizatat Jofitimprurse, I ndryshuar, Kreu IV, Neni 13. 22 See: Ligji Nr. 9920, date 19.05.2008, Pr Procedurat Tatimore n Republikn e Shqipris.
20 21

25

Networking on the Implementation of the National Youth Action Plan 2011-2012

umbrella organization (NYC) which has 40 member youth organizations and three observer members. This organization has been one of the largest youth networks of until 2007. After a period of 2 years of not being active the Albanian Youth Council was reorganized in 2009 2010 and began strengthening the national network. The formalization and recognition of the representative structure of young people in decision-making is one of the key priorities stated in the Action Plan of the NYS 2007 2013, and the process has started in terms of recognizing the Albanian Youth Council, National Student Council and Students Governments, in legislative ways or through partnership agreements, but still there is a need to build consultative bodies on every institution dealing with youth and the need for a Youth Law. Albanian students are organized in the National Student Council (NSC), established in 2008, which is a legitimate network approved by the law on higher education, as the higher representative body of the Albanian students and their interests. In this structure are represented all student council presidents in public and private universities and faculties. The right to participate in decision making processes of young people in local and central level is guaranteed in the National Youth Strategy 2007 - 2013, which defines ways to promote this participation through the existing actors, governmental and nongovernmental bodies. The main problems of youth today in our country are employment and housing. Mainly most of young people live with their parents because housing rents are unaffordable for those who often have difficulties in finding a job and face even greater difficulties to find a suitable job compared to their education and skills, in order to cover the costs of an independent lifestyle. Financial Support on NGOs from governmental institutions: Youth NGOs can receive financial support from the Albanian government in these institutions: The Ministry of Tourism, Culture, Youth and Sports through annual calls for proposals, (average of grants per year (50 000 USD 100 000 USD) depending on the budget. The Agency for Supporting Civil Society, which only in the period 2011-2012 has allocated 46 grants to youth / or youth oriented NGOs, for projects targeting young people ore implemented from and for young people in the amount of 1,000,000 USD. (www.amshc.gov.al). Taking into account also other governmental grants and donations for youth NGOs and youth projects, results that the Albanian Government at the moment is the main supporter in the youth field. This development is a result also of the lack of continues call for proposals in the youth field from international donors present in Albania. Youth Work The concept of youth work is not a much used and quite clear concept in Albania, if not amongst youth NGOs. Youth work, often confused from the general public with youth activism or social work, was also thought as an activity carried out from young people as volunteers or NGO members. Because of the growth of youth mobility after the visa liberalization for the Schengen Zone, the enormous work done from youth NGOs working in European, national and local level, through Youth in Action Program Activities, European Youth Foundation supported projects and through the dissemination of publications of the CoE and EU-CoE youth Partnership the situation in Albania is slightly changing. 26

Networking on the Implementation of the National Youth Action Plan 2011-2012

In the AYC vision youth work is a planned in/non-formal educational program or activity, designed to enhance and promote young peoples personal and social development, through their voluntary participation. Youth work contributes not only to their development and personal growth, but also to give a place to young people in the society and make their voice heard. Non formal education recognition and integration in the formal education system. The only official document recognizing non formal education in Albania until 2008 was the National Youth Strategy 2007 2013, as the basic document of youth policy and youth work in Albania. Anyway even why not widely recognized the Vocational Education and Training (non formal) in Albania was finally getting a deserved attention for its role and responsibilities. This newly derived attention needed adequate institutional response. Starting from the 1st of March 2007, this response came from the newest Vocational Education and Training institution in Albania, the National Vocational Education and Training Agency. The establishment of the NVETA is based on the Council of Ministers decision no. 273/2006 and it performs most of the institutional duties related to VET, including frame-curricula, occupational lists and standards, assessment and certification for students, accreditation for VET providers, etc. This Agencys aim is to provide a further development of VET in Albania, mainly with regard to institutionalization and quality assurance on the system. 23 In the Methodological Guideline on the creation of VET curriculas in Albania 2008, is stated that the professional qualification can be organized and officially certified, (formal qualification), unorganized (informal education), organized but not officially certified. 24 In 2010 a new development occurred, a law on the national qualification framework was approved. The intent of this Law was to establish the Albania Qualifications Framework, for the development, recognition and award of qualifications in the Republic of Albania based on standards of knowledge, skill or competence to be acquired by learners.25 In this law for the first time we find official definitions on: Skills: as the ability to implement knowledge, in carrying out tasks and problem solving. It can be cognitive when using the logical, intuitive and creative thinking, or practical when using the manual skill and use of methods, materials, tools and equipment. Institutional Accreditation: The process of recognising that education and training institutions meet appropriate standards of quality. This may be associated with the accreditation of the programmes offered by these institutions. Credit accumulation and transfer: The process of giving credits towards a qualification is known as credit accumulation and the process of having credits which were gained in one institution or system recognised in another is known as credit transfer. EQF: the European Qualifications Framework: an overarching framework of 8 levels approved by the European Parliament to assist countries and sectors to compare qualifications, improve the mutual recognition of qualifications and promote geographical and labour market mobility as well
23 24 25

http://akafp-al.org/index.php?idr=1&lang=1; http://akafp-al.org/dokumente.php?idcat=9&lang=1; 27

Networking on the Implementation of the National Youth Action Plan 2011-2012

as lifelong learning. The 8 qualifications levels are described through learning outcomes (knowledge, skills and competence) which span all forms of qualification. Competence: is the proved ability in using knowledge, skills and personal capacities, social and/ or methodological, in work or study, as well as in the professional and individual development. Competence includes responsibility and authonomy of action. Albanian Qualification Framework later referred as AQF : is a national system for classifying the qualifications, according to a set of criteria, for specific levels of obtained learning, which aims at integrating and coordinating the national qualifications sub-systems and improving the transparency, access and progress, as well as qualifications quality which are linked to the labour market and civil society. Credit: a numerical value given to qualifications, or the components which make up qualifications, which represents the volume of learning required to achieve the qualification or component. Qualification: A specification of standards in knowledge, skills and wider competences which has been designed to meet a particular purpose and has been validated or formally recognised according to the law for that purpose. The award of a qualification to an individual signifies that the knowledge and skills of that individual have value in the labour market and/or in further education and training. A qualification will be awarded when a competent body determines by means of a quality assured assessment process that an individual has reached the specified standards. Knowledge: is everything achieved as a result of information obtained through learning. Knowledge implies the sum of facts, principles, theories and practices which are related to a specific field of profession or study. Knowledge can be theoretical or factual. Standards: Statements of the knowledge, skills, and wider competences which must be attained by a candidate to achieve a qualification. Non-formal learning: Learning which is embedded in planned activities not explicitly designated as learning (in terms of learning objectives, learning time or learning support), but which contain an important learning element. Non-formal learning is intentional from the point of view of the student, pupil or trainee. It can lead to certification. Informal learning: Learning resulting from daily activities related to work, family or leisure. It is not organised or structured in terms of objectives, time or learning support. Informal learning is in most cases unintentional from the perspective of the individual who is learning. It typically does not lead to certification. Validation: Processes of ensuring that standards or qualifications have been designed to meet defined and agreed needs and are of appropriate technical quality. In higher education this is known as programme accreditation. In the formal education system are integrated some extra-curricular classes, such as hours of community service that are integrated into the curricula of Secondary Education. During these hours the students should be involved at institutions such as the Red Cross, various nursing homes, non-

28

Networking on the Implementation of the National Youth Action Plan 2011-2012

profit associations, etc. The work performed is recognized with credits. 26 During the academic year 2010-11, a very successful pilot program has been developed and implemented by the Office for Protection of Consumers in all secondary schools of Tirana in cooperation with the Ministry of Education and Science, which went live in the Public Albanian Television TVSH, Albanian Screen, NTV, etc. Created as a non-formal education module, this program consisted in the realization of a TOT for 10 young people in the consumer protection area. The trained young people than developed a Role Play on acting as responsible consumers and performed for their peers in other high schools. In the academic year 2012 2013 this program will be held again in partnership with the Municipality of Tirana and MES. Law No 10 247, dated 4.3, 2010, on the National Qualifications Framework was approved, even why employers still do not appreciate and recognized youth work they have started accepting non formal education as a value. The scope of the NQF is: qualifications awarded in all sectors of the education and training system, including general education and, vocational, pre-university, post-secondary and higher education and training; qualifications at all levels of learning from those required for entry to work and participation in civil society to those awarded at the highest level of academic and professional and vocational education and training; certification resulting from formal, non-formal and informal learning, including the recognition of prior learning. The Council of the National Qualification Framework is a body chaired by the Minister of Education and Science and it is constituted of ex-officio members and representative members. Youth Employment and Unemployment During recent years, politics has increased its attention toward youth employment in the country, where the difficulties faced by young people to enter and remain in the labor market become more complex from a large number of their peers who work in the conditions of an informal economy. Unemployment, underemployment and black market youth work, have a high cost for the country. The youth labor market in Albania is characterized by relatively low participation and employment rate and high levels of unemployment. In 2009, young people in the labor force represented 45.6 percent of the population aged 15 to 29 years, compared to the national average of 62.2 percent. Low level of youth participation is largely due to education attendance (approximately 40 percent of the population at an early age is in education or training) and due to the low participation of girls (39.7 percent). 27 The unemployment rate among young people aged 15 - 29 years is 21.9%, and noted that the unemployment rate among women is higher than among men. 28 Udhzues pr zhvillimin e kurrikuls s re t gjimnazit, (http://www.izha.edu.al/programet/udhezues/UDHEZUESI_Per%20Zhvillimin%20e%20Kurrikules%20s e%20Re%20te%20Gjimnazit.pdf) 27 Youth Employment National Action Plan 2010-2013, fq 27; 28 Youth Employment National Action Plan 2010-2013, Tabela 2.3, fq 27; 29
26

Networking on the Implementation of the National Youth Action Plan 2011-2012

In 2009, about 38.4 percent of the new employees were employed in non-agricultural private sector, where the number of males was almost twice that of females (respectively 41.6 percent and 24.7 percent). 31% of young employees working in the service sector, 19.1% in industry and 49.2% in agriculture. 29 40.4% of young people are employed, 14.4% are self-employed, while 45.2% are unpaid family workers. 30 A notable feature of the Albanian labor market for young people is to separate male / female and rural / urban divide: young women are more likely than men of the same age to inactivity, unemployment and vulnerable employment, and young people living in rural areas are more likely than young people in urban areas are unemployed or work in unsafe conditions and to be poor. Although regional differences in terms of poverty, in the period 2002-2008, are narrow, north-eastern areas of the country remains where it is focusing the majority of the poor. 31 The Ministry of Labor, Social Affairs and Equal Opportunities is developing very good policies in regard (Youth Employment National Action Plan) with promoting and offering professional training and education in fields or professions requested by the market for all unemployed registered young people, promoting youth entrepreneurship, etc. Tirana Municipality has also put as one of its priorities the promotion of youth entrepreneurship through the support of business plan designed and implemented from young people.32 With the support of the ILO and in the framework of the Joint Program of the UN on Youth Employment and Migration, the Albanian Youth Council in collaboration with, Albanian Trade Union Confederation, Union of Independent Trade unions of Albania, Beyond Barriers, Institute of Social Communication, Ministry of Education and Science, Albanian Business, etc realized a Campaign in Tirana, Kukes and Shkoder, on Youth Rights at Work, based on the TOT Guideline and Instruments Package on YR@W realized with the support of ILO experts. The objectives of this campaign were to foster the role of the private sector in creating decent jobs for young people and with particular attention to inform and raise awareness throw young people about their rights at work. (www.punesimi.info) At least 2000 young people were informed through the info days on their rights at work, the existence of trade unions, public institutions and structures protecting their rights. 350 Young people took part in the Launching Event of the YR@W campaign. At least 1000 other young people were informed on their rights at work through TV programs and through the online campaign. In terms of capacity building 212 teachers, social workers, members of trade unions, young leaders of local youth parliaments or local student councils, youth NGOs and youth oriented NGOs took part in the 8 TOTs on YR@W in Tirana, Shkoder and Kukes. The Guideline and Instruments Package on Youth Rights at Work has been distributed to at least 30 Youth NGOs and Local representative bodies. All the Deliverables has been fulfilled in due time as agreed in the contract accept the TOTs of Tirana that were postponed a few days due to the request of the Ministry of Education and Science because of the national holidays in 14 15 April 2012. Youth Employment National Action Plan 2010-2013, Tabela 2.4, fq 29 Youth Employment National Action Plan 2010-2013, Tabela 2.5, fq 30 31 Youth Employment National Action Plan 2010-2013, fq 66 32 http://www.tirana.gov.al/sq/Planifikimi-Strategjik-i-Bashkise1
29 30

30

Networking on the Implementation of the National Youth Action Plan 2011-2012

On the 12 of August the AYC has launched the Training for Trainers Guideline on Youth Entrepreneurship, a practical guideline on youth self-employment from the ILO and Business Albania. Volunteerism Albanian society has suffered for many years from a negative perception on volunteerism. Because of the Dictatorship regime and the forced voluntary and community work, people refused volunteerism even why a decade after its fall. Therefore AYC with Beyond Barriers launched in 2010 an initiative for the development of a draft law on volunteering which joined 48 youth organizations. The draft law, which was presented in the 5th of December 2011 to public institutions, after a one year drafting process, is in the being reviewed and consulted by them. Now days the situation of volunteerism in Albania is changing and we now have the first Local Voluntary Service Center, created and managed from Beyond Barriers (http://www.beyondbarriers.org), one of the most active NGOs in promoting volunteerism in Albania and a National Volunteer Network, created from young people aged 18-20 years old. Recently young people seem to appreciate more the values of volunteerism toward our society and their skills development, because their volunteer participation in different actions, initiatives and projects has increased considerably. Scoutism in Albania By Greta Iliazi Scouts are one of the structures working in the field of non formal education based on scout methodology. As an educational movement for young people, Scouting's purpose is to contribute to the development of young people in achieving their full physical, intellectual, emotional, social and spiritual potentials as individuals, as responsible citizens and as members of their local, national and international communities. It includes all four pillars of education: learning to know, learning to do, learning to live together and learning to be, the last two requiring a particular emphasis. It belongs to the category of non-formal education since, while it takes place outside the formal educational system, it is an organized institution with an educational aim and is addressed to a specific clientele. Art and Culture The wealth and cultural artistic values in Albania are presented by Cultural Monuments, Museums, Libraries, Theaters, Art Galleries, Television and Radio Operators, film production and movies, concerts and festivals.33 These institutions are present in almost every city of Albania and have rational prices. An exception in this regard are Cinemas which are present only in few cities and which tickets cost depending on the time and day 3 -5 euro. This price is not completely affordable from young people and specially for youngsters. It is important to mention that there is a great difference between the cultural and artistic life of Tirana compared to other cities of Albania where there are fewer cultural and artistic events and institutions, but fortunately the private sector in the field of culture

33

INSTAT 31

Networking on the Implementation of the National Youth Action Plan 2011-2012

and arts is growing, there are many private galleries of contemporaneous art, private theaters, private art schools, private libraries, private televisions and radio stations, etc. In the last three years a successful development is the creation of many Private Televisions and Radio channels, becoming the biggest competitors in the field of art and culture. The Albanian Post and Institutions of Secondary and higher education offer for free the use of computers and internet, making possible an easier exchange of information amongst young people. Youth policies in Albania assess the cultural development of young people as a priority. Leisure activities are recognized as very important for psychological and physical and cognitive development of the new generations. Participation in artistic and cultural activities, as well as engaging in community services is considered as formative socialization of young people with inherent. Particular importance in this regard is given to reading, because due to the huge development of technology in these years, we notice the creation of a gap or distance between young people and books. During the year 2009 MTCYS held a very successful program in high schools in Tirana for the promotion of young Albanian Writers. The campaign focused on meetings and debates with famous young writers and was followed by a donation of several artistic and academic books for school libraries. Every secondary school in Albania is equipped with a library, although sometimes these libraries are not very rich in titles and authors. Tirana Municipality has recently set up a free library at the Municipality Multifunctional TEN Center. This library is open to the community. The Albanian Youth Council in partnership with the American University of Tirana between enriched this library with a fund of 3000 academic texts and artistic literature for children in English, Italian and French. Values Young Albanians are part of a society which has inherited from the past many values (sometime good and some time old and conservative), which in one way or another determined the Albanian people of today. Values as fay (faith), hospitality, religious tolerance, ethnic tolerance, humanity, generosity, optimism and lack of xenophobia are part of the Albanian society. With the historical and political changes that occurred in Albania, these values were transformed in different ways, some of them less and others more. But despite the great differences between Tirana and other cities or rural areas of Albania, which are less developed, it is observed in young people an adaptation / junction between the Albanian cultural values with Western values, like an escape from living their life on the basis of traditional norms. Human Rights Education (From Anisa Hysesani Youth Peace Ambassador) Learning about Human Rights, Human Rights Education and developing through these the conceptual and practical meanings of conflict, peace and conflict transformation has been always important mostly for young generations (but not only) who have been living/live in conflict-affected communities, because as it is said Human Rights and Peace are for all and of all. Albania as a post communist and developing country in my opinion has a strong need of continuing presenting these kind of concepts in youth, through different non-formal trainings offered by National and/or Local Youth NGO-s, which in 32

Networking on the Implementation of the National Youth Action Plan 2011-2012

this framework have offered and still can offer big help. Youth is the strongest development engine, but also catalysts of important and positive changes. Many young people participate every day in such trainings and most of them are now aware of important concepts as Human Rights, Human Rights Violation, Intercultural Dialogue, Conflict, Conflict Transformation and Peace Importance, as well as the importance of their country as an actor and factor in the regional stability and conflict transformation. Comparing with 90 when the communism system fell down and Albanian people began approaching to democracy as an important value, a lot of things have improved but a lot is still to be improved and the task that still remains to be accomplished by the actual youth generation is to consolidate the democratic values as individuals and as a community, which will bring us to a further national but also regional secure and peaceful development. Here I find appropriate to share a very important personal approach relating to this, by learning Human Rights and Human Rights Education as frameworks for conflict transformation and dialogue by taking part in Youth Peace Ambassadors Project ( a two year program 2011-2013) of Council of Europe/Youth Directory from April 2011 and ongoing. Through the two seminars held until now, which focused on HRE, HR, C.T, I.D (April 2011-October 2011, respectively in European Youth Center of Strasburg and Budapest ) what I learned was that every individual can be active and competent in peace-building activities in their community, through advocacy, consultancy to youth initiatives, lobby, mediation and campaigning and through contributing for a higher level of awareness on Human Rights, human rights violations, instruments and mechanisms of protection of human rights. Being a potential Youth Peace Ambassador gave me the chance to realize a series of activities on H.R and C.T and as well to be part of different similar activities in Albania during the years that I have been following this project through the constant and important support of Albanian Youth Council and also in collaboration with Council of Europe Office in Albania, just to mention the most important ones, such as: - Different Round Tables with National and Local Albanian Youth NGOs, where presenting to them YPA project and discussing the future project that would be my following up as a participant in YPA (European Conference Room, Tiranas Youth Center) - Event: Human Dignity and Peace Building in Europe (in collaboration with Council of Europe office in Albania, with the special presence of Mr. Marco Leidekker, in the European Conference Room, Tirana Youth Center) -Facilitator in the first Regional Youth Peace Camp held in Albania. - Active in written media regarding to articles for Regional Conflict Problems and as well promoting YPA in different media interviews . -and actually proceeding with the following up project which will be implemented in Tirana in the framework of YPA (with the potential sustain of European Youth Foundation and Albanian Youth Council Organization). Finally, being part of Albanian civil society for the last six years as well as of YPA project has been really important in raising my personal skills in treating H.R, Conflict and Peace issues not only as an active individual and citizen but as well in influencing a lot of other young people to give importance 33

Networking on the Implementation of the National Youth Action Plan 2011-2012

and also contribute to Peace in their communities as well as in their region. I sincerely got motivated from CoE activities, the trainers of YPA project, from my YPA friends as well as from the big support of the Albanian Youth Council. After all this engagement and support, I have made a promise to always work on Peace because as Eleanor Roosvelt said: It isn't enough to talk about peace. One must believe in it. And it isn't enough to believe in it. One must work at it.

34

Networking on the Implementation of the National Youth Action Plan 2011-2012

CONTACT US: Address: Mob: Tel: Web: Web soon: E-mail: E-Mail soon: Facebook:

Bulevardi Zogu I, VeVe Center, No. 72, 309 / 1, Tirana, Albania; +355673404780; 0808 555 www.keshillirinor.al www.punesimi.info www.paviza.al www.leadership.edu.al www.youthcouncil.al albyouthcouncil@gmail.com ayc@leadership.edu.al contact@youthcouncil.al http://www.facebook.com/keshillirinor http://www.facebook.com/keshillirinorshqiptar http://www.facebook.com/groups/punesimirinor

35

Networking on the Implementation of the National Youth Action Plan 2011-2012

36