COMPREHENSIVE REPORT ON THE ACTIVITY OF THE AGENCY FOR THE SUPPORT OF THE CIVIL SOCIETY DURING THE YEAR 2016
Tirana, January 2017
Table of contents:
CHAPTER I General Overview 2
CHAPTER II Enforcement of transparency law, information law, law on National Council of Civil Society 5
Statistical analisis of grants allocation according to the priority fileds distribution for Call for Proposal No. 9 7
Statistical analisis of grants allocation according territorial distribution for Call for Proposal No. 9 10
CHAPTER III Monitoring and evaluation of budget indicators for 2016 17
The "Civil Society Support Program" 19
The disbursement performance of financial grants 22
CHAPTER IV Main activities carried out by the ASCS during 2016 25 CHAPTER I
AGENCY FOR THE SUPPORT OF CIVIL SOCIETY
General Overview
Agency for the Support of Civil Society Support of Civil Society is focused on the (ASCS) is a public bugetary institution, stimulation of the all inclusive and established by Law No. 10093 date participation to the democracy. 09.03.2009 “On the Organization and Functioning of the Agency for the This is reflected in the efforts to create an Support of Civil Society". environment that is favorable to the activities of civil society and to the ASCS is established for the purpose of capacity building of Non Profit assisting with Financial and Technical Organisations so that they can be Support to the Civil Society in the effective, accountable and independent country, being committed to promote, actors, through the formalization of support and defend the principles of transparent and non-discriminatory human dignity, freedom, equality, non- registration procedures, through the free discrimination, rule of law, respect of and independent activity as well as human rights, transparency and through the cooperation between citizens professionalism. etc.
An active, strong and comprehensive civil Civil society, having appropriate society can play an important role into structures and mechanisms for the practical implementation of these cooperation with the ASCS and other principles. It is also an essential public institutions, as well as free, clear component of every functioning and accessible flow of information on democracy. matters of public interest, through consistent and structured mechanisms, By articulating the citizens’ issues, the enhances its autonomy, that of civil society organisations, as non- representation and accountability, thus governmental entities and non-profit strengthening the foundation of the structures where people are organised to organisations according to the highest follow common objectives and ideals, standards of internal governance, should be more and more active in the through the inclusion of democratic public affairs, as well as should be structures, the monitoring and evaluation envolved in such initiatives that promote process, the financial management, the the plurarism and participation to the transparency, information and mutual democracy. cooperation.
In the framework of the empowerment policy of civil society, the Agency for the
ANNUAL REPORT 2016 • Agency for the Support of Civil Society 2
BODIES AND FUNCTIONS OF THE INSTITUTION
Agency for the Support of Civil Society was established by Law no. 10093 date 09.03.2009 "On the Organization and Functioning of the Agency for the Support of Civil Society" and its mission is the promotion of sustainable development of civil society and the creation of favorable conditions for civil initiatives, in the good and to the interest of public.
To fulfill this mission, the functional duty of the Agency for the Support of Civil Society is to provide financial and technical assistance to programs that promote and strengthen the sustainability of nonprofit organizations; inter-sectoral and international cooperation; civic initiatives; philanthropy; volunteerism of democratic institutions of civil society; as well as other programs that facilitate its mission fulfillment.
Agency for the Support of Civil Society has as the object of its activity:
. promotion of cooperation with NGOs, whose object of their work is supervision of anti-corruption fight; combating trafficking in human beings and the treatment of its victims; against domestic violence and violence against children; . encouragement of citizens in activities, their inclusion and participation in community development; . respect for human rights; . the creation and consolidation of the capacities of civil society; . development of inter-sectoral cooperation and cooperation between civil society organizations; . increase public influence and activities of civil society organizations in decision- making; . the development of social entrepreneurship and employment in the nonprofit sector; . increase the influence of civil society in the process of drafting and adoption of public policies . determination of the procedures applicable to the distribution of funds for the support of civil society.
ANNUAL REPORT 2016 • Agency for the Support of Civil Society 3 LEGAL FRAMEWORK, STRUCTURAL ORGANIZATION AND OPERATION OF ASCS
Legal framework on the functioning and organisation of work
Agency for the Support of the Civil Society operates and supports its work based on a comprehensive legal package, as follows:
a) Law no. 10093 date 09.03.2009 "On the Organization and Functioning of the Agency for the Support of the Civil Society". This Law, so far has not undergone any change. b) Decision no. 769 date 15.07.2009 of the Council of Ministers "On Approval of the Statute of the Agency for Support of Civil Society". c) Decision no. 789 date 16.11.2011 of the Council of Ministers "On an Amendment to the Decision no. 769 date 15.07.2009 of the Council of Ministers "On the Approval of the Statute of the Agency for the Support of Civil Society". d) Regulation of the Agency for the Support of Civil Society, endorsed the Decision of the Supervisory Board in its meeting on 20.09.2010. e) Regulation of the Agency for the Support of Civil Society, updated in accordance with changes and adjustments provided for, in Decision no. 789 dated 16.11.2011 of the Council of Ministers "On an amendment to the Decision no. 769 date 15.07.2009 of the Council of Ministers "On approval of the Statute of the Agency for the Support of Civil Society." These changes were approved by the Decision of the Supervisory Board in its meeting on 30.11.2011. f) Regulation "On the Procedures of Grants Funding to Civil Society" approved by the Supervisory Board Decision no. 1 date 08.07.2010. g) Regulation "On the Procedures of Grants Funding to Civil Society", as amended by the Decision of the Supervisory Board in its meeting on 10.03.2011. h) Decision no. 1 date 08.07.2010 of the Supervisory Board of the Agency for the Support of Civil Society, through which were adopted − Application Form. − Evaluation Criteria. − Contract Type i) Instruction no. 1 dated 29.12.2010 of the Executive Director of the Agency for the Support of Civil Society "On completion of financial and audit reports aiming projects monitoring funded by the Agency for the Support of Civil Society". j) Order no. 161 date 05.09.2013 of the Executive Director of the Agency for the Support of Civil Society "On the procedure for the administration of the written acts, applications / proposals, creation of files and the manner of their turnover inside ASCS".
ANNUAL REPORT 2016 • Agency for the Support of Civil Society 4
CHAPTER II
Enforcement of transparency law, information law, law on National Council of Civil Society
Full Application of the Law on Public Consultation
REALISED BY ASCS:
In the framework of LAW No. 146/2014 “ON THE PUBLIC NOTIFICATION AND CONSULTATION” with the object as hereafter follows:
1. This law regulates the public notification and consultation process of the draft-laws, national and local strategic draft-documentations, as well as that of policies in the high interes of the public. 2. This law defines the procedural rules that must be followed to guarantee the public transparency and participation in the policy and decicion making processes of the public entities. 3. This law aims the encouragement of the transparency, the accountancy and the integrity of the public authorities.
ASCS has undertaken the necessary measures for the application of this law throughout its activities, turning this public consultation proccess into a fundemental key element for certain issues and decisions of its strategic work.
More specifically we mention:
CONSULTATIVE MEETINGS TO DEVELOP A MED-TERM AND LONG-TERM STRATEGY as well as the priority areas to fullfill its mission (aiming a wider geographical coverage, respectively in Vlora, Pogradec, Kukes, Shkodra and Tirana). In this process, the Agency has involved various representatives of civil society, NGOs, civic initiatives, academic institutions, research centers, foundations, international partners, central and local authorities etc.
These meetings were held to be an important instrument of dialogue and also to increase transparency between civil society and institutions. In order to facilitate the provision of their opinions, there were distributed short questionnaires prepared in advance, which they could also be found online on our website : www.amshc.gov.al
Based also on the questionnaires filled by the representatives of the civil society in all our meetings as a whole, filled (and gethered by us) either manually or electronically to the address: [email protected]; or even from the discussion of the participants in our five meetings.
Referring to the main issues raised and highlighted by the civil society actors during the meeting in Shkodra, there were identified the priority areas, identified and proposed by civil society actors themselves.
ANNUAL REPORT 2016 • Agency for the Support of Civil Society 5 CONSULTATIVE MEETINGS are organasied also on the purpose of the selection of candidates for the National Council for Civil Society.
CONSULTATIVE MEETINGS FOR PROJECT-PROPOSALS Nr. 9 (mission and purpose of ASCS) just at the stage of the announcement of these calls, wishing to be consistent with the issues of civil society, ASCS has organized consultation meetings to absorb suggestions and problems related to the priorities of civil society.
Projects funded by the ASCS during the period January - December 2016, targeting corruption, transparency and citizen involvement in policymaking.
The Supervisory Board of ASCS via Decision No. 2, dated 25.04.2016, No. 151/1, decided to fund 11 CSO projects; meaning in total the amount of 21,000,000 Lek to the priority field of the fight against corruption; transparency and citizen involvement in policymaking through monitoring. Tabel below as follows:
1 Qendra ORBIS 2,500,000 2 Instituti i Studimeve Politike 800,000 3 Millennial Hope 1,200,000
4 Instituti per Rinovimin e Politikave Sociale (IRPS) 2,000,000
5 Fondacioni "Moisiu" 1,000,000
6 Qendra "Instituti per Reforma Sociale" 2,500,000
7 Qendra Burimore e Alternativave te Zhvillimit (DARC) 2,500,000
8 Intelektualët e Rinj, Shpresë 600,000
9 Instituti per Kerkime dhe Alternativa Zhvillimi (IDRA) 3,900,000
10 Qendra IMPAKT 2,000,000
11 Qendra për Bashkëpunim dhe Zhvillim Rajonal 2,000,000
TOTAL (in ALL) 21,000,000
ANNUAL REPORT 2016 • Agency for the Support of Civil Society 6
Monitoring Report on the Activities preceding the Implementation of the Winning Project Proposals under the Call No. 9, for the period 26.03.2016 - 31.12.2016
Activities according to the Strategic Priorities for Call for Proposal Nr.9 are grouped as the tabel below: 1. Supporting the initiatives that 2. Identifying good governance contribute to improving the initiatives including the civil society conditions of vulnerable groups impact and participation in policy and people with disabilities, development and the improvements in including support with ancillary citizen-centered service delivery infrastructure, strengthening of systems, fight against corruption professional capacities and through innovation and modernization promoting service development of systems of civic participation and by operators, raising awareness civic participation on service and raising awareness of them; performance and policy-making
Main objective/Activities: Main objective/Activities: Providing the support which contributes The implementation of this priority is oriented on improving the conditions, promoting towards the improvement of the capacities of and integrating young people with social non-profit organizations in order to enhance problems by enhancing and strengthening the quality and social development of the their capacities through integration and country. The aim is to analyze and discuss the employment as well as entrepreneurship major issues of democracy and state building initiatives; Developing physical, in our country, giving various suggestions in linguistic, mental and emotional public and official form to the media, citizens, potential, developing cognitive and social institutions and political actors. skills, expressing and autonomy, providing rehabilitation and education for children with Down syndrome; etc.
Visibility: Visibility:
Nr. of Leaflets distributed 4.070 Nr. of Leaflets distributed Nr. of Posters distributed 1100 3500 Nr. of Posters distributed Banner distributed 900 3 Nr. of Banner distributed Nr. of Blouses with logo of ASCS 2 distributed 700 Nr. of Informative Brochure distributed 550
ANNUAL REPORT 2016 • Agency for the Support of Civil Society 7 3. Supporting the initiatives and 4. Strengthening gender equality, reforms to improve the enabling combating discrimination based on sex, environment of civil society, race or other personal convictions; empowering the role of civil society organizations and developing priority and sectorial policies, creating the conditions for a systems twhich enhance and facilitate an enabling environment, including the reforcement of the role of society civil society in public communication and dialogue for development;
Main objective/Activities: Main objective/Activities: Creating groups of young photo reporters Increase the professional capacities of women in two districts of Albania, they will have in general and non-employed women specialy their common virtual space from where girls which live in the periphery of Tirana they will report on life in their cities. The through vocational training: The purpose of project "Increasing Student's the project is to empower women to identifie Contribution to the Community" aims the and respond to all sort of discrimination and enabling of the students to identify the psychological and physical violence; challenges of their community and gaining access through training in order to face these challenges.
Visibility: Visibility:
Nr. of Leaflets distributed Nr. of Training Certificate distributed 900 Nr. of Posters distributed 100 700 Constrution of official website Nr. of Brochure distributed 1 300 Nr. of Leaflets distributed Nr. of magazine distributed 11400 1.000 Nr. of Posters distributed Nr. of distributed Catalogue 4 .900 300 Nr. of Banner distributed 2
ANNUAL REPORT 2016 • Agency for the Support of Civil Society 8
5. Strengthening of the initiatives 6. Empowering of the youth initiatives, as which aime the protection of the well as the networks within regional environment and increasing the and international partners in this sector environmental consciousness of and the local and regional development citizens, mainly targeting to the of the country; creating a better young generation; envirement for social businesses and other innovative activities. Main objective/Activities: Awareness and engagement of the local Main objective/Activities: community on the importance of Providing the detailed information and preserving the natural flora and increasing the awareness of the Albanian biodiversity of the area; "Increasing youth on the Regional Office for Youth Student's Contribution to the Cooperation; training women to recognize and Community" aimes primarily the respond to covert forms of discrimination and enabling students to identify the psychological and physical violence, challenges of the community through especially what is practiced by intimate training in order the fulfillment of these partners challenges. Visibility: Visibility: Nr. of posters distributed Nr. of Leaflets distributed 6000 1200 Nr. of Brochures distributed Nr. of posters distributed 200 510 Nr. of Informative publications distributed Nr. of Brochures distributed 100 3150 7. Supporting cultural and artistic initiatives that create additional value for the social context and the improvement of the synergies within civil society.
Main objective/Activities:
Creating networks between all various actors such farmers, processors, sales and support services through the development of specialized training in order to increase the value chain's overall value- added efficiency.
Visibility: Nr. of Leaflets distributed 400
Nr. of posters distributed 350
ANNUAL REPORT 2016 • Agency for the Support of Civil Society 9
Statistical analisis of grants allocation according to the priority fileds and territorial distribution
The priority fields of call for proposals nr. 9 were as follows:
1. Supporting the initiatives that contribute to improving the conditions of vulnerable groups and people with disabilities, including support with ancillary infrastructure, strengthening of professional capacities and promoting service development by operators, raising awareness and raising awareness of them;
2. including the civil society impact and participation in policy development and the improvements in citizen-centered service delivery systems, fight against corruption through innovation and modernization of systems of civic participation and civic participation on service performance and policy-making
3. Supporting the initiatives and reforms to improve the enabling environment of civil society, empowering the role of civil society organizations and developing priority and sectorial policies, creating the conditions for a systems twhich enhance and facilitate an enabling environment, including the reforcement of the role of society civil society in public communication and dialogue for development;
4. Strengthening gender equality, combating discrimination based on sex, race or other personal convictions;
5. Strengthening of the initiatives which aime the protection of the environment and increasing the environmental consciousness of citizens, mainly targeting to the young generation;
6. Empowering of the youth initiatives, as well as the networks within regional and international partners in this sector and the local and regional development of the country; creating a better envirement for social businesses and other innovative activities.
7. Supporting cultural and artistic initiatives that create additional value for the social context and the improvement of the synergies within civil society.
ANNUAL REPORT 2016 • Agency for the Support of Civil Society 10
Table No (1): Distrubution of winning Projects of Call no. 9 and the amount (in ALL) allocated for each strategic priority field
(Note: The category more than field is used for statistical purposes as a separate category; due to a considerable number of projects that have affected more than one priority area).
Grant Distribution In No. No. Priority Fields according to Percantage Projects respective % priority field
Supporting the initiatives that contribute to improving the conditions of vulnerable groups and people with disabilities, including support with ancillary infrastructure, 1 strengthening of professional capacities and promoting 6 15,200,000 17.8 service development by operators, raising awareness and raising awareness of them;
Including the civil society impact and participation in policy development and the improvements in citizen- centered service delivery systems, fight against corruption through innovation and modernization of systems of civic participation and civic participation on 2 service performance and policy-making 5 10,000,000 11.7
Supporting the initiatives and reforms to improve the enabling environment of civil society, empowering the role of civil society organizations and developing priority and sectorial policies, creating the conditions for a 3 systems twhich enhance and facilitate an enabling 1 2,500,000 2.9 environment, including the reforcement of the role of society civil society in public communication and dialogue for development; Strengthening gender equality, combating discrimination based on sex, race or other personal convictions; 4 5 15,000,000 17.6
Strengthening of the initiatives which aime the protection of the environment and increasing the environmental 5 consciousness of citizens, mainly targeting the young 7 12,400,000 14.6 generation; Empowering of the youth initiatives, as well as the networks within regional and international partners in this 6 sector and the local and regional development of the 1 1,000,000 1.17 country; creating a better envirement for social businesses and other innovative activities.
Supporting cultural and artistic initiatives that create additional value for the social context and the 7 improvement of the synergies within civil society. 2 3,500,000 4.1
8 More than one field 14 25,600,000 30.05
ANNUAL REPORT 2016 • Agency for the Support of Civil Society 11 As it can be seeen from Table no. 1 the the highest specific weight expressed in% of the winning and implemented projects with is under the statistical category of “more than one field” 30.05% of the total, which indicates that the projects have affected more than one priority area and a a wide range of activities as well. Meanwhile, if we analyze the amount of Grant (in lek) allocated for each priority, the highest specific weight expressed in%, it is covered by priority no.1 “Supporting the initiatives that contribute to improving the conditions of vulnerable groups and people with disabilities, including support with ancillary infrastructure, strengthening of professional capacities and promoting service development by operators, raising awareness and raising awareness of them” with a percentage 17.8%.
The lowest coverage in % is under the priority nr. 3 ‘Supporting the initiatives and reforms to improve the enabling environment of civil society, empowering the role of civil society organizations and developing priority and sectorial policies, creating the conditions for a systems twhich enhance and facilitate an enabling environment, including the reforcement of the role of society civil society in public communication and dialogue for development”
Grafically the Distribution of the winning projects allocated to respective Prirority Field is expressed as follows:
ANNUAL REPORT 2016 • Agency for the Support of Civil Society 12
TERRITORIAL DISTRIBUTION OF THE WINING PROJECTS AT REGIONS/PREFECTURES AND DISTRICTS LEVEL FOR CALL FOR PROPOSAL NO. 9
ASCS steadily relying on her philosophy and her mission to have a territorial distribution of the winning projects covering a wide geographical distribution in all albanian It was the same approach for the announced Call for Proposal no. 9 to maintain the objective of wide national distribution of the winning projects. In table no.1 we notice the Territorial distribution of the wining projects at Counties and Municipalities level for the winning projects of Call No. 9.
Tab. 1. Territorial distribution of the wining projects at Counties level Nr. Distribution on county level Nr. of prjojects distributed Call No. 9 1 Berat 3 2 Dibër 1 3 Durrës 2 4 Elbasan 3 5 Fier 3 6 Gjirokastër 3 7 Korcë 3 8 Kukës 2 9 Lezhë 2 10 Shkodër 3 11 Tiranë 8 12 Vlorë 3 13 Projects implemented in national level 5
Grafically the Territorial distribution of the wining projects at Counties level is expressed as below: 9 8 8 7 6 5 5 4 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 3 2 2 2 2 1 1 0 Fier Dibër Korcë Lezhë Vlorë Berat Tiranë Kukës Durrës Shkodër Elbasan Gjirokastër in national level Projects implemented 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13
ANNUAL REPORT 2016 • Agency for the Support of Civil Society 13 Tab. 2 Territorial distributions of the wining projects at Counties / Municipalities level is expressed as below:
Distribution on Counties / Nr. of prjojects distributed Nr. Municipalities on Call No. 9 (below are the municipalities) 1 Berat County 3 1.1 Berat 3 1.2 Kucovë 0 1.3 Skrapar 0 2 Dibër County 1 2.1 Peshkopi 1 2.2 Bulqizë 0 2.3 Mat 0 2.4 Klos 0 3 Durrës County 2 3.1 Durrës 2 3.2 Krujë 0 4 Elbasan County 3 4.1 Elbasan 0 4.2 Gramsh 2 4.3 Librazhd 0 4.4 Peqin 1 5 Fier County 3 5.1 Fier 2 5.2 Lushnje 0 5.3 Mallakastër 0 5.4 Roskovec 1 6 Gjirokastër County 3 6.1 Gjirokastër 1 6.2 Përmet 1 6.3 Tepelene 1 7 Korçë County 3 7.1 Korcë 0 7.2 Devoll 1 7.3 Pogradec 1 7.4 Kolonje 0 7.5 Maliq 0 7.6 Pustec 1 ANNUAL REPORT 2016 • Agency for the Support of Civil Society 14
8 Kukës County 2 8.1 Kukës 1 8.2 Tropojë 1 8.3 Has 0 9 Lezhë County 2 9.1 Lezhë 2 9.2 Kurbin 0 9.3 Mirditë 0 10 Shkodër County 3 10.1 Shkodër 2 10.2 Puke 0 10.3 Malësi e Madhe 1 10.4 Vau I Dejës 0 10.5 Fush-Arrëz 0 11 Tirana County 8 11.1 Tiranë 3 11.2 Kamëz 2 11.2 Kavajë 2 11.4 Vore 1 12 Vlora County 3 12.1 Vlore 0 12.2 Sarande 1 12.2 Delvine 1 12.4 Selenice 0 12.5 Himarë 1 12.6 Finiq 0 12.7 Konispol 0 13 Projects implemented in 5 national level
ANNUAL REPORT 2016 • Agency for the Support of Civil Society 15 Grafically the territorial distribution of the wining projects at Counties/ Municipalities level is expressed as below:
The territorial distribution of the wining projects at Counties/ Municipalities on Call No. 9
9 8 7 6 5 4 3 2 1 0 Has Fier Klos Finiq Peqin Lezhë Kukës Devoll Tiranë Kavajë Pustec Durrës Kucovë Bulqizë Përmet Mirditë Kolonje Gramsh Sarande Shkodër Selenice Fush-Arrëz Mallakastër Countie Vlorë Countie Dibër Countie Korcë Countie Beratit Malësi Madhe e Countie Elbasan Countie Gjirokastër Projects implemented in national level 1111213221222324331324414243445515253546616263771727374757688182839919293101010 110 210 310 4 11 51111 111 211 2 12 41212 112 212 212 412 512 6 13 7
As it can be seen from the data table and the graphic the winning projects have high percentage of the wining and implemented projects are concentrated in Tirana County.
It is important to highlight at the same time that the territorial distribution coverage of financed projects affects all the administrative Counties. The higher rates as mentioned above are concentrated above in region of Tirana; followed by counties as: Vlora; Gjirokastra, Elbasan, Durrës, Korçë etc.
ANNUAL REPORT 2016 • Agency for the Support of Civil Society 16
CHAPTER III
As according to Article 104, paragraph 4 of the Constitution of the Republic of Albania, Article 65 of Law No. 9936, dated 26.06.2008 "On the Management of the Budgetary System in the Republic of Albania" (as amended), as well as within the Guideline no.22 date 17/11/2016 "On the Standard Budget Monitoring Procedures in Central Government Units", we present a summary of the Budget Implementation Monitoring Report for the Civil Society Support Agency for 2016.
1. Monitoring and evaluation of budget indicators for 2016
As it is well known, “Monitoring” in this case is a performance evaluation process that is accomplished by comparing actual performance indicators with those planned. So monitoring is the process of linking the realization of objectives and products with the respective funds planned for their achievement.
Through this report / monitoring report of the ASCS Budget for 2016, we detail the information on the effectiveness of the use of budget funds and the performance of the products accomplished for 2016 with respect to the Civil Society Support Agency.
In the usage of budget funds, the ASCS is based on the principles of good management and effectiveness of the budget system. The distribution of financial resources has been made in line with the economic policies and priorities of the ASCS, aiming at the efficient use of these resources, clear responsibilities for managing the expenditures for each product, in function of achieving the objectives and activities established for 2016.
2. Budget Plan Year 2016
ASCS‘s Budget for the Year 2016, as issued by the President's decree No. 9376, dated 24.12.2015, Permanent Instruction of the Minister of Finance No.2 dated 06.02.2012 "On the standard budget execution procedures" and in accordance of the implementation of the Supplementary Instruction No.1, dt.15.01.2016 "For the implementation of the 2016 Budget", a planned fund of 122 million and 500 thousand ALL has been allocated, as follows (Tab.Nr.1) from:
Tab. Nr.1 Fund for Wages and Salaries: 13,000,000 ALL (article 600)
Social Insurance Fund: 2,500,000 ALL (article 601)
Operating Expenses Fund: 5,000,000 ALL (article 602)
Fund for transfers to third parties: 101,000,000 ALL (article 604)
Fund for Investments : 1,000,000 ALL (zeri 231)
TOTAL 122,500,000 ALL
ANNUAL REPORT 2016 • Agency for the Support of Civil Society 17 3. Budget Review for 2016 through Normative Acts
Throughout the Financial Year 2016, there have been changes to the Annual Plan 2016 for the ASCS Budget Plan based on the Normative Act No. 2, dated 16.12.2016 "On Amendments to Law No.147 / 2015" On the Budget of 2016 " Pursuant to the Order of the Minister of Finance No. 2, dated 06.02.2012 "On the standard budget implementation
procedures" as amended and based on the Supplementary Instruction No. 1 dated 15.01.2016 "On the Implementation of the 2016 Budget", reductions in the budget for the Civil Society Support Agency under the revised budget plan for 2016, are made as according to the table below:
1. Based on the Law No.147 / 2015 "On the Budget of the Year 2016" , ASCS was granted an increase in the article 604 account of 5,000,000 ALL, thus the total of the article 604 for September 2016, as a treasury plan was 106,000,000 ALL. Subsequently, at the request of the Institution and the approval of the Ministry of Finance, the fund of ALL 5,000,000 was transferred to the operating expenses account as article 602.
2. Based on the Law No.147 / 2015 "On the Budget of 2016", as well as pursuant to the Order of the Minister of Finance No. 2, dated 06.02.2012 " On Standard Budget Implementation Procedures "as well as the Supplementary Guideline No. 1 dated 15.01.2016" On the Implementation of the 2016 Budget", the amendments to the Budget Plan for the ASCS are as listed below:
In this framework, we conclude in detail that the changes in the initial plan of the ASCS Budget are:
. Increase in economic account (article) 604 with 5,000,000 ALL but reallocated at the request of the ASCS and the approval of the Ministry of Finance in the economic account 602 . Reduction in economic account 600 with 1,100,000 ALL . Reduction in economic account 601 to 250,000 ALL . Reduction in the economic account 602 with 500,000 ALL
Budget funds planned and revised through the 2016 Acts for the Civil Society Support Agency are 125,680,000 ALL managed in a program entitled "Support to Civil Society", which according to the budget structure are presented as follows.
ANNUAL REPORT 2016 • Agency for the Support of Civil Society 18
The "Civil Society Support Program"
Tab. 2 in ALL
Budget review 2016
Annual Plan Progressive according to the Realization in Budgetary structure Expenditure changes made Percentage during the year 600 - Payroll article 11,282,503 11,900,000 94.8 %
601 – Soc.Contribution and taxes 1,835,815 2,250,000 81.5 %
602 - Operative expenditure 4,350,455 9,500,000 45.7 %
604/1 – Tranfers and grants 100,086,800 101,000,000 99 %
231 - Investiments 993,000 1,000,000 99.3 %
606 – Other expenditures 30,000 30,000 100 %
Total 118,578,573 125,680,000
4. Analysis of the performance indicators of the budget for the 2016 fiscal year
The Social Welfare and Compensation Fund (Article 600-601) was implemented in accordance with the Organizational Structure approved by Government Decision no. 769 dated 15.07.2009 of the Council of Ministers "On the approval of the Statute of the Agency for the Support of Civil Society", as amended by Decision no. 789 dated 16.11.2011 of the Council of Ministers "On an amendment to Decision no. 769 dated 15.07.2009 of the Council of Ministers "On the approval of the Statute of the Agency for the Support of Civil Society", Based on the Law No.147 / 2015 "On the Budget of the Year 2016", decreed by the President's decree No. 9376, dated 24.12 .2015, based on DCM no. 23, dated 20.01.2016 "On determining the number of Temporary Employees for 2016 in Central Government Units", and pursuant to Supplementary Instruction No. 1, dt.15.01 .2016 "On the Implementation of the Budget of 2016".
During Year 2016, the average number of employees per ASCS is realized 14 permanent employees and two temporary contract employees.
ANNUAL REPORT 2016 • Agency for the Support of Civil Society 19 From the general fund of wages and bonuses, as well as social security, during this year was realized respectively:
. 11,282,503 ALL (article 600) for salaries and wages , realization of 94.8%. . 1,835,815 ALL (article 601) for taxes and social contributions, realization of 81.5%. . Personnel expenses were realized at 94.8% due to all the procedures of recruitement of staff and beacuase of non-fulfillment of vacancies in the institution's structures due to the entry into force of the new Law on civil servant status and the procedures to be followed for the employment of civil servants in Institutions.
From the general fund of wages and bonuses, as well as social security, during this year was realized respectively:
The Fund for Other Expenditures (article 602), for 2016, was originally planned with the 2016 Budget Law in the amount of 5,000,000 ALL.
With the Budget Review based on the Normative Act No. 1, dated 29.07.2016 "On Amendments to the Law No.147 / 2015" On the Budget of 2016 ", and as accordingly to the Order of the Minister of Finance No. 2 , Dated 27.01.2012 "On the standard budget execution procedures", ASCS was granted an additional of 5,000,000 ALL to the Grant’s Account 604 but at the request of the Institution for redistribution of funds this value was reallocated to the operating expenses account,for the total of article 602 of 9,500,000 ALL in total after reviewing the budget through two Normative Acts of the Budget Law of 2016,in the article of operating expenditure (article 602).
For this article, for the year 2016, the amount of 4,350,455 ALL or 45.7% of the revised annual plan for ASCS has been realized.
The breakdown of current expenditure for 2016 year
Operating Expenditure for 2016 Total Realization in Article Products and Services Amount percentage in ALL 6020100 Working materials 22680 0.52% 6020200 Cleaning products 21960 0.50% 6020300 Materials for office operation 87000 2.00% 6022010 Elektricity 262465 6.03% 6022008 Security service for the building 467958 0.1075653% 6022009 Cleaning service 144000 3.31% 6022031 Telephone 0 6022033 Telephone mobile 0 6022034 Internet 0 6022040 Posta 7584 0.17% 6022099 Newsletters and announcements 119000 2.74% ANNUAL REPORT 2016 • Agency for the Support of Civil Society 20
6023100 Fuel and Oil 451080 10.37% 6023200 Traveling expenses 1807655 41.55% 6024300 Maintenance expenses 0 6025800 Office equipment maintenance costs 9799 0.23% 6026100 Costs for rent 45660 1.05% 6029001 Other staff expenditures 177050 0.0406969% 6029005 Payments for honoraries 0 6024100 Travel expenses 510500 11.73% 6021010 Printing and coping of materials 0 6021099 Other special expenditures 70093 1.61% 6022010 Publications 0 6029008 Other taxes and payments 68691 1.58% 6022002 Payments for water 17280 0.40% 6022007 Bank services 60000 1.38%
TOTAL 4350455 100.00%
In the fulfilling of the operational costs, the ASCS has relied on the principle of a rational distribution of money and as acoordingly of the requirements for the optimum performance of the Institution's activities. ASCS has also implemented the "Procurement Public Register" for purchases and services that mainly relate to:
. Realization of expenditures, binding on the state, as taxes and payments, electricity, water, postal and telephone services, in order to provide normal institutional activity. . Collection of all purchases for the needs of ASCS, publications, office purchases, vehicle repairs, etc. . Carrying out payments for the liquidation of suppliers and third parties, etc.
Failure to fully spent the Operational and Maintenance Expenditure Fund granted to ASCS, is justified by the following reasons:
. This non-fulfillment is first argued with the residual margin of procurement limits developed by the ASCS and the value of the contracts concluded with the winning operators, which means that the procurement fund is greater than the value of the contract declared winner for the same procedure. . Also, part of the non-fulfillment of this item is related to budget review for ASCS through the Normative Acts for revision of the 2016 Budget Law, adding to the ASCS account of 5,000,000 ALL at the request of the Institution but the time was insufficient for the implementation of the procurement procedure (Request for Proposal) as well as the possible realization of the contract. For this reason, the article of operating expenses (602) remains the lowest realized article for 2016 fiscal year.
ANNUAL REPORT 2016 • Agency for the Support of Civil Society 21 The Fund for grants (item 604) for 2016 is planned at the value of 101,000,000 ALL. This is the most important item in the budget’s structure of the ASCS, since the Mission of this Institution has as its main objective the financing of Civil Society with Grants for project proposals of beneficiary NGOs
Even for this article, currently article 604 Chapter 1 for the respective period has been realized value of 100,086,800 ALL or 99% of the annual plan.
Meanwhile, the disbursements of the Grants have included disbursements from Call No.7, Call No.8 and in the second half of year 2016 the winning Projects No. 9 organized by ASCS have been disbursed. One of the recent innovations in the recent Call Disbursements announced by the ASCS in the second half of 2016 is the way of Financing (70% First Disbursement Part and 30% Final Reporting / Disbursement Part) Both the winning projects and the timelines in which the Calls were made public.
5. The disbursement performance of financial grants
The table below shows the performance of financial grant disbursements (Article 604 - Grants) per month during 2016, as well as in the chart below, this graphing disbursement performance is clarified.
Performance of grant disbursements graphically per month
Tab. in ALL
Year 2016
January 2,637,000 February 2,020,000 March 7,850,000 April 710,000 May 37,556,800
June 22,330,000
July 8,370,000 August 300000 September 0 October 1,770,000 November 4,180,000
December 12,363,000
TOTAL 100,086,800
ANNUAL REPORT 2016 • Agency for the Support of Civil Society 22
Investment Expenditure Fund (item 231), 1,000,000 ALL.
During the fourth quarter of 2016, procurement practices regarding the investment fund have been finalized. In particular, the investment fund for the reconstructuring of the building project amounting to 480,000 ALL with VAT included as for September 2016 was also disbursed, as well as the procurement practice for the second investment project for the improvement of IT Infrastructure at the Institution in the amount of 190,800 ALL.
Meanwhile, at the request of the Institution and the approval of the Ministry of Finance, the remainder of the investment fund has been reallocated following the procurement procedures for the opening of a new investment project such as "Investing in the IT and audio of Meetings Office for ASCS" In the value of the project 329,200 ALL and actual realization amounting to 322,200 ALL.
Thus the realization of the Investment Fund for ASCS is in total 993,000 ALL out of the 1,000,000 budget plan with a percentage of 99.3%.
ASCS is a central state budget institution created by Law no. 10093 Date 09.03.2009 "On the organization and functioning of the Civil Society Support Agency" and Decision of the Council of Ministers No. 769, dated 15.07.2009 "The Statute of the ASCS" (Amended), with the Basic Mission "Promotion of Development of Sustainable Civil Society", as well as "Creating favorable conditions for civil initiatives" for the benefit and in the interest of the public.
For the accomplishment of its Mission, the ASCS provides "financial assistance" for programs that promote and strengthen the sustainability of non-profit organizations, cross- sectoral and international cooperation, civil initiatives, philanthropy, volunteering and democratic institutions of society, as well as other programs such as training / Workshops / conferences / regional meetings that facilitate the fulfillment of its mission.
Starting from November 2010 until the end of 2016, the Civil Society Support Agency led by the ASCS Supervisory Board has organized 9 Call for Proposals for Priorities and Areas, which are permanent objectives of the Institution, and have been conducted Appropriate procedures in accordance with the applicable Laws on Notification, Announcement, Evaluation, Selection and Contracting of Non Profit Organizations for Project Grants that have resulted in the winning. Furthermore, the concrete work of the ASCS as an Institution remains the follow up of the Projects until the final stage of their realization, Monitoring and Evaluation of Performance of the Activities in accordance with the project proposal and the contracts concluded between the parties as well as Monitoring and Evaluation of Performance Financial projects funded by the ASCS and compliance with the budget envisaged as well as with the fiscal and tax legislation of the Republic of Albania.
ANNUAL REPORT 2016 • Agency for the Support of Civil Society 23 The amount of Grants and Non-Profit Organizations (short-term NGOs) contracted to be funded for each Call organized by the ASCS is as follows:
Table 4 (in ALL):
Call’s Nr.of NGO ‘s Amount of Grants in ALL (Albanian Leke)
Call Nr. 1 52 125,918,000 Call Nr. 2 31 16,000,000 Call Nr. 3 69 131,960,000 Call Nr. 4 63 62,105,000 Call Nr. 5 47 55,200,000 Call Nr. 6 21 43,755,840 Call Nr. 7 41 73,500,000 Call Nr. 8 18 36,000,000 Call Nr. 9 41 85,200,000 TOTAL 383 629,638,840
The main work of ASCS for 2016 has focused on the successful implementation of Call for Proposals as well as monitoring / monitoring / evaluation of projects implemented within these Calls.
ANNUAL REPORT 2016 • Agency for the Support of Civil Society 24
CHAPTER IV
Main activities carried out by the ASCS during 2016
Information session on good governance and fight against corruption Tirana, 29 January 2016
The Executive Director of ASCS, Mr. Andi Kananaj attended an information session entitled: "Strengthening the capacity and the impact of CSO on good governance and fight against corruption in local government levels", which took place at the Hotel Tirana International.
This meeting was organized by the Institute for Democracy and Mediation (IDM) and the Albanian National Center for Training and Technical Assistance (ANTTARC).
In the framework of IPA 2014/2015, the European Union Delegation in Albania has chosen to fund two projects:
. Project: CIVILISC – Instruments of Civil Society in the fight against corruption will be implemented by the Institute for Democracy and Mediation in cooperation with the Bulgarian Fondation "Risk Monitor" in 20 small and medium municipalities in the country.
. Project: PACT – Partnership in the fight against corruption will be implemented by a consortium of organizations led by the National Center Resource of Training and Technical Assistance, in partnership with the Albanian Local Capacity Development Foundation (ALCDF) and "Act for Society" Centre in 15 municipalities of the northern area of the country.
At the introduction of the two projects CIVILISC and PACT participated civil society organizations, state institutions, donors, beneficiaries and other stakeholders such as the media and academic institutions.
ANNUAL REPORT 2016 • Agency for the Support of Civil Society 25 Final consultation meeting on the procedures for nomination, online voting and selection of representatives of civil society, as members of NCCS Tirana, 4 February 2016
In the premises of the Ministry of civil society, to implement the the publication of qualified candidates Social Welfare and Youth (MSWY), it National Strategy on creating a and will also be set a 3-day period was held the closing consultation favorable environment for the regarding the contests of the meeting, regarding the procedure for development of this sector. disqualified nominees. On February the election of representatives of Civil Later on, the word was given to Mr. 16th, an online 8-days period voting Society Organizations, as members of Calabretta, who congratulated and will be launched and on 25 February the National Council for Civil Society encouraged the participants for the the winners will be announced. (NCCS). efforts and achievements made so far, The National Council for Civil Society This meeting was organized by the regarding this sector. will consist of 27 members, 13 of Agency for the Support of Civil Society Further on, the Executive Director of whom will be representatives of the (ASCS) in cooperation with the the ASCS, Mr. Kananaj explained to senior management of public Ministry of Social Welfare and Youth the participants the procedures this institutions, 13 representatives of civil (MSWY). The meeting was attended process will pass through, then, Mrs. society organizations and one by the Minister of MoSWY, Mr. Blendi Kati encouraged the representatives representative from the business Klosi, the Executive Director of the of CSOs for a more active and quality community. ASCS, Mr. Andi Kananaj, the participation in the process. Some of the issues that were representative of the European Union In addition, in the framework of this discussed and suggested by the Delegation, Mr. Stefano Calabretta, process, it was presented the schedule participants at this meeting were: the member of the Supervisory Board of of the action plan, which foresees that selection of candidates should be the ASCS, Mrs. Kozara Kati and a from 5 to 12 February, it will be the done based on precise and clear considerable number of candidates’ nomination period for the criteria; it should be taken into representatives of Civil Society election process of the members of account gender equality between the Organizations (CSOs). NCCS. candidates; there should be the The participants were welcomed by Likewise, since February 5, the representation of all strata of society Minister’s speech, acting as President schedule foresees the establishment reflecting all their problems, etc. of NCCS, who emphasized the of an ad-hoc electoral commission, importance of the establishment of member of which will be an this Council, as a bridge of international representative. cooperation between government and Meanwhile, on February 13, it will be
ANNUAL REPORT 2016 • Agency for the Support of Civil Society 26
National Conference "Children’s Safety on the Internet" Tirana, 9 February 2016
In the framework of the international day of "Safer Internet", the representative of the ASCS, Mr. Kastriot Tota, took part in the National Conference "Children’s Safety on the Internet", which took place on February 9, 2016, from 10:00 to 11: 30, at Tirana International Hotel. This Conference was organized by the Minister of State for Innovation and Public Administration; Ministry of Education and Sports; Ministry of Social Welfare and Youth and the Ministry of Interior Affairs, in cooperation with UNICEF and in partnership with the Center for Protection of Children's Rights - CRCA Albania. At this meeting, it was signed the "Cooperation Agreement on Safer Internet for Children", which aims to increase the efficiency of institutional interaction, in the function of online safety for children against inappropriate contents, and their protection from violence, exploitation, abuse, risks and threats coming during online navigation.
Regional Workshop - "The access of Roma children in early childhood services" Tirana, 11 February 2016
In the framework of the second year of the Programme "Every Roma Child to Kindergarten" a regional workshop, organized by the Municipality of Tirana, Tirana Region Council, CRCA Albania, the Observatory for the Rights of the Child and UNICEF, took place at the Youth Centre, in Tirana. This workshop was attended by the Deputy Tirana Mayor, Ms. Brunilda Paskali; Deputy Head of Tirana Region Council, Ms. Bora Panajoti; a representative of ASCS, Mr. Kastriot Tota representatives of UNICEF, CRCA Albania, and the Observatory of the Rights of the Child. There were also a number of representatives of Roma Organizations. This workshop took place in the framework of the Programme of Ministry of Education and Sports and UNICEF, with the support of the Swiss Cooperation Office and the Austrian Development Cooperation in Albania. This workshop aimed to bring together key stakeholders in the region of Tirana, to discuss the difficulties and challenges encountered in the second year of the initiative "Every Roma Child to Kindergarten" and highlighted the results achieved so far by giving some positive models of integration, which have contributed to the reduction of social exclusion of Roma children as well as the increase of kindergarten attendance by this community.
Info day on the modalities of the First Call for Project Proposals, in the framework of BalkanMed Programme 2014-2020 Tirana, 18 February 2016 A representative of the Agency for the Support of Civil Society (ASCS) participated in the Information Day, on the modalities of the First Call for Project Proposals, within BalkanMed Programme 2014-2020, organized by the Ministry of European Integration in collaboration with the Managing Authority of the BalkanMed Programme. This activity was organized in the premises of Tirana International Hotel. In this informative event were present a considerable number of representatives of Civil Society Organizations and public institutions. The presentation of BalkanMed Programme 2014-2020, more specifically, priorities, objectives and modalities of its implementation, were made by the representatives of the Ministry of European Integration, as well as two representatives of the Managing Authority of BalkanMed Programme 2014-2020. The representatives of the Managing Authority of the BalkanMed Programme, Mrs.Nikoletta Tatari and Mr. Themistoklis Chatzikonstantinou presented to the participants, in detail, all the stages this process will pass through. Specifically, topics, which they discussed about, were the filling of the Application Form, specification of the Budget Form, application documents, establishment of partnerships, eligibility regarding the application, selection criteria and evaluation, communication and finalization of the project etc. After the presentation, the participants addressed to the panel a number of questions and asked for further clarification about the modalities of application and the difficulties they face during the process. The leading Panel of this Info Day made the necessary explanations, answering to all the questions raised.
Finally, the participants also discussed about the next meeting, which will be another Info Day on ADRION Programme 2014- 2020, and agreed to hold it on 29 February 2016.
ANNUAL REPORT 2016 • Agency for the Support of Civil Society 27
Workshop - "Developing Policies and Financial Programming of the New Model on Regional Management in Albania" Tirana, 25 February 2016
Policies (IP3) and further, they were greeted by Ms. Eriola Muka, Director of the Department of Regional and Local Development, at the Prime Minister’s Office, who pointed out the importance of the addressing of institutional and financial instruments for the regional development of the country.
During the workshop, there were also three other experts of (IP3), namely Mrs. Besmira Vishe, who made a brief In the framework of an open discussion to address the description on the establishment of the Regional institutional and financial instruments for regional Development Agencies, Mrs. Monika Brahimi, who spoke development in Albania, Institute of Public and Private about the history of the Regional Development Fund and Policies (IP3), the Unit of Coordination of Development Mrs. Blerta Guda, who presented the creation of the Programs and Strategic Planning at the Prime Minister’s Sustainable Financial Instruments for the Regional Office, in cooperation with the Agency for the Support of Development in Albania. Civil Society (ASCS), organized in the premises of Mondial Hotel, the workshop on "Developing Policies and Financial At the closing of the discussions, the participants drew Programming of the new Model on Regional Management conclusions and gave some recommendations for the in Albania". future: In this workshop took part representatives from the Prime . The objectives of the Regional Development Fund Minister’s Office, Ministry of Finance, Ministry of should be in synchrony with the Sustainable Environment, the Agency for the Support of Civil Society, Development Strategy approved SDG-2030 at the and a number of Agencies and representatives of Civil United Nations, in September 2015. Society Organizations (CSOs). The focus of this workshop . Regional Development Fund should become a was the drafting of development policies, programming and implementation of financial instruments, to the function of financial mechanism which will support the new the regional development of the country, based on a survey national policy of regional development to have conducted by the Institute of Public and Private Policies, competitive regions with a sustainable regarding the financing scheme of public investment at the development. local and regional level. . Regional Development Fund should be increased The participants were welcomed by Ms. Albana Dhimitri, and become part of the Medium Term Budget Executive Director at the Institute of Public and Private Program (MBP).
International debate "Social Entrepreneurship in Albania - between definitions, approaches and developments" Tirana, 26 February 2016
In the framework of the project "U-Impact - From Civic Participation to the Influence on the EU Policies ", part of the European Union Programme "Europe for Citizens", Partners Albania for Change and Development organized, at Hotel Tirana International, the international debate "Social Enterprises in Albania – on definitions, approaches and developments".
In this debate took part actors and institutions contributing to this development from ministries, academic institutions, development agencies and donors supporting the first social enterprises in our country, representatives of these companies as well as of best practices from the development of social enterprises in Estonia , Bulgaria, France and Belgium.
Part of this debate was also, the Agency for the Support of Civil Society which has consistently increased commitment and its contribution to the financing of projects of CSO in this area, affecting the adequacy of legislation to stimulate social enterprises, their organization and function in Albania. Welcome speech, the presentation of the project and of debate structure was made by Ms. Arjola Agolli - Director of Programs, Partners Albania for Change and Development.
ANNUAL REPORT 2016 • Agency for the Support of Civil Society 28
The debate was developed on three main panels:
1. Recent developments and trends in social entrepreneurship practices in Albania; Legislative initiatives and their expected effect in the development of enterprises and their impact on employment - presented by Ms. Erion Manahasa, representative of the Ministry of Social Welfare and Youth, who stressed that the draft law on SE is in line and to the function of the national strategy, the creation of the SE will impact strongly on improving the lives of marginalized groups, will increase awareness of the population to this strata, provision of services, increasing employment and welfare to the groups who could not afford or have limited access. In this panel spoke also, Mr. Arben Shamia - Executive Director, Professional Services YAPS -Youth Albania who brought before the participants the experience of the social business, the contribution he has given to the employment of marginalized groups.
2. Development trends of the SE in Europe presented by - Jaan Aps, former CEO of the Estonian Social Enterprise Network , Petko Georgiec - ProInfo – Bulgaria, Flora Graioni - IREX Europe – France and Jos Sterckx - Knowledge Centre Social Europe – Belgium, who made their presentations with video call as a new application in the ways of communication.
3. Presentations by representatives of the local SE and specifically, Youth Center "borderless", Gjirokastra Foundation and the Albanian Foundation for the Rights of Disabled Persons who presented the achievements and challenges that the new SEs- face in Albania and to what extent they are exposed to regional and international Social Enterprises networks.
At the end of each discussion, the participants addressed various questions and exchanged views on discussed topics.
Meeting between the Tetra Tech ARD’s team and ASCS’ representatives Tirana, 1 March 2016
In the framework of drafting the next five-year USAID strategy for Albania, a meeting took place today at the ASCS’ premises between the Tetra Tech ARD’s team and Agency for the Support of Civil Society’s (ASCS) representatives. The team was composed of experts from Tetra Tech ARD and USAID officials: Ms. Sue Nelson- Assessment Team Leader (consultant at Tetra Tech ARD), Dr. Clarissa de Waal- Country Specialist (consultant at Tetra Tech ARD), Mrs. Silvana Rusi - Local Analyst (consultant at Tetra Tech ARD), and Ms. Faye Hasselkorn - Democracy and Governance Programme Officer (USAID Washington). ASCS was represented by Mrs. Leonida Hasa, Mrs. Mimoza Çorbaxhi, Mr. Kastriot Tota, and Mrs. Silva Gjini.
During this meeting it was discussed about the functioning and the organization of the ASCS, specifically focusing on the following issues: . ASCS’ mission and objectives; . Areas of activity; . ASCS’ financial resources; . Central and Local Government Cooperation with the Civil Society; . Establishment and functioning of the National Council for Civil Society; . Achievements and challenges so far in the civil society sector; . Expectations and areas for improvement in the future; . Grant funding applications criteria and procedures; . Problems encountered in the implementation of projects, and the impact these projects have on society; . Areas and possibilities of cooperation on the establishment of Civil Society Organizations networks in the future.
The meeting was characterized by the free discussion and there were addressed real issues concerning CSOs in Albania.
ANNUAL REPORT 2016 • Agency for the Support of Civil Society 29 NATIONAL CONFERENCE - "Creation of an Enabling Environment and Enhancement of Capacities for CSOs Development in Albania" Tirana, 2 March 2016
Monitoring Matrix on Enabling Democratic Change Slovakia, with Environment for Civil Society funding from Olof Palme through the Development, Country Report for Swedish Government and Slovak Aid – Albania 2015. The monitoring of the Official Development Assistance of the legal and practical environment for the Slovak Republic. development of civil society is based on the principles and key international standards. The focus of discussion was Partners Albania for Change and the creation of an enabling environment Development organized a national and CSO cooperation with government conference entitled "Creation of an institutions in Albania and Member Enabling Environment and States of the EU. Enhancement of Capacities for CSOs Development in Albania", which took The monitoring of enabling environment place in Hotel Mondial, in Tirana. for CSO development is financially supported by the European Union, The conference was attended by Mr. Balkan Trust for Democracy and Olof Andi Kananaj, Executive Director of the Palme International Center in Albania Agency for Support of Civil Society with funding from the Swedish (ASCS); Mrs. Plejada Gugashi, Program Government. Local Manager - The Olof Palme In the conference was highlighted the International Center, Albania; Mr. role of the ASCS and the National Stefano Calabretta, Program manager Council for Civil Society in Albania. for Civil Society and Human Rights, the Following, in the conference was European Union Delegation to Albania; presented the “NPO Academy”, an Mrs. Karolina Mikova, Director, Partners innovative approach of Partners Albania for Democratic Change Slovakia as well to strengthen capacities of NPO as representatives of the donor executives to build effective community and civil society organizations serving the public and organizations in Albania and Slovakia. interest groups. Some of the activities of the NPO During the conference were presented Academy are implemented in findings and recommendations of the cooperation with Partners for
ASCS organizes informative meeting in Shkodra Shkodër, 8 March 2016
The Agency for the Support of Civil Society (ASCS) organized an informative meeting in Shkodra, in the framework of the process of selection of candidates for the National Council for Civil Society (NCCS) as well as information on applications for Call No. 9 for proposals, meeting which took place at the Youth Centre Arka. At this meeting, the Executive Director of the ASCS, Mr. Andi Kananaj and Mr. Erion Banushi informed the guests about the importance of civil society and the process of selection of candidates for NCCS. Also informed on the procedure and documents required for proposals application under the Call No. 9, which remains open until March 25, 2016. The following days are also defined the next two informative meetings, respectively in Pogradec and Vlora.
ANNUAL REPORT 2016 • Agency for the Support of Civil Society 30
ASCS organizes informative meeting in Pogradec Pogradec, 11 March 2016
The Agency for the Support of Civil Society (ASCS) organized the informative meeting in Pogradec, in the framework of the process of selection of candidates for the National Council for Civil Society (NCCS) as well as information on applications for Call No. 9 for proposals, meeting which took place at the Hotel Millennium, in Tushemisht, Pogradec.
At this meeting, took part the representatives of ASCS, Mr. Erion Banushi, Mrs. Leonida Hasa and Mr. Ferhat Aga, whom informed the guests about the importance of civil society and the process of selection of candidates for NCCS, as well on the procedure and documents required for proposals application under the Call No. 9.
ASCS organizes informative meetings in Vlorë, Kukës and Korçë
The Agency for the Support of Civil Society (ASCS) in the framework of the process of selection of candidates for the National Council for Civil Society (NCCS) as well as information on applications for Call No. 9 for proposals, organized the informative meetings in Vlorë, Kukës and Korçë, respectively on 11, 18 and 21 March 2016.
At these meetings, took part the representatives of ASCS, Mr. Erion Banushi and Mr. Ferhat Aga, whom informed the guests about the importance of civil society and the process of selection of candidates for NCCS, as well on the procedure and documents required for proposals application under the Call No. 9, which is still open till 25 March 2016.
11.03.2016 / Vlorë 11.03.2016 / Vlorë
18.03.2016 / Kukës 18.03.2016 / Kukës
ANNUAL REPORT 2016 • Agency for the Support of Civil Society 31
ASCS has been accredited as Sending, Receiving and Coordinating Organisation for the European Voluntary Service of the Erasmus+ Programme Lubjana (Slloveni), 25 mars 2016
Agency for the Support of Civil Society (ASCS) has been accredited as Sending, Receiving and Coordinating Organisation on the basis of Accreditation code number 2016-1-SI02-KA110-013468 within the European Commission's Erasmus+: Youth in Action programme.
This accreditation is valid for 3 years, till 25.03.2019.
Regional P2P Conference "Transparent Allocation of Public Funds - EU good practices and models" opens its session Jahorina (Bosnia & Herzegovina), 30 March 2016
The event will provide an opportunity for key CSOs and government actors from six WB countries (Montenegro, Macedonia, Serbia, Kosovo, Bosnia and Herzegovina) and Turkey to examine current practices and exchange experiences related to mechanisms for transparent public funding so to create an action oriented plans which will contribute to creation of the enabling environment for CSOs in the region.
In this conference took part, Executive Director of ASCS, Mr. Andi Kananaj and Mr. Erion Banushi.
ANNUAL REPORT 2016 • Agency for the Support of Civil Society 32
The Conference "The Challenges and Opportunities for Employment of Marginalized Groups by Social Enterprises" Tirana, 20 April 2016
Partners Albania organized in Tirana, the conference "The Challenges and Opportunities for Employment of Marginalized Groups by Social Enterprises", in which took part Mr. Ferhat Aga, as the representative of ASCS.
Findings of the study “The Challenges and Opportunities for Employment of Marginalized Groups by Social Enterprises” in Albania and Macedonia were presented in the conference, providing a general overview of social enterprises, features of their development, dimension, and opportunities for employment and integration of marginalized groups. Different perspectives of development of the legal framework and practices in the region and beyond were also presented and discussed.
National Conference - "Strengthening Local Government Structures and Cooperation between local elected representatives in Albania - Phase II" Tirana, 3 May 2016
Council of Europe Office in Tirana organized a National Conference under the title "Local Government and Public Administration Reform - New Opportunities for Local Administration". The conference brought together ministers, donors, local government representatives, representatives of civil society and experts to discuss the latest developments in the reform of public administration. In this Conference, also took part a representative of the Agency for the Support of Civil Society (ASCS). In the opening session, the Conference was greeted by Mr. Bledi Çuçi, Minister of State for Local Government, Mr. Christoph Graf, Swiss Ambassador in Albania and Ms. Claudia Luciani, Director of Democratic Governance, Directorate General of Democracy, Council of Europe. CoE experts presented the assessments on national institutional needs and training regarding the local governance, conducted before the local elections of June 2015. This assessment, the first of its kind and scope in Albania, will serve as a basis for the local administration in Albanian, to implement the local administration reform. During this Conference, the participants were also greeted by the Minister of State for Innovation and Public Administration, Mrs. Milena Harito who guaranteed the international partners to the Government's commitment to advancing the Public Administration Reform, followed by the modernization of civil services, bringing it closer to citizens across the country. Further the conference continued its work with a number of presentations, discussions and exchange of experiences, which converged to the need to consolidate and formalize the existing modern tools and best practices dealing with Human Resource Management at local and national level. The Conference finally, concluded its work by issuing a number of conclusions, which will guide the work in the future.
ANNUAL REPORT 2016 • Agency for the Support of Civil Society 33 Final Meeting on Draft Strategy 2014-2018, in the framework of the environment Small Grants Programme, as part of the Global Environment Facility implemented by UNDP Tirana, 10 May 2016
The Small Grants Programme in Albania, as part of the During the meeting it was emphasized that the Small Grants Global Environment Facility (GEF SGP), through the Regional Programme (SGP) provides for non-governmental Environmental Centre (REC) Albania, organized in the community based organizations, in developing countries, premises of Hotel Tirana International, with the partners grants which will enable them to perform activities to tackle and stakeholders interested in this field, the closing meeting global environmental challenges, while addressing local on the final consultation of the Draft Country Programme needs for sustainable development. Strategy, for the Operational Phase 6 (OP6) 2014-2018. Small Gants Programme is a program within the Global The meeting was attended by representatives from the Environmental Programme implemented by UNDP and Ministry of Environment, UNDP, ASCS, REC Albania, executed by UNOPS. This program has been funding representatives of Centers and Civil Society Organizations. projects in Albania since 1998 and has funded a total of 231 projects. The purpose of this meeting was the presentation of the final Draft Strategy of the GEF / SGP OP6. At the end of the meeting, the moderator thanked and ensured the participants that all comments and opinions The participants, in the meeting, expressed their views expressed in this final meeting will be reflected in the final about the Strategy presented before them offering so, their version, which once approved, will soon be made public. assistance with opinions and suggestions about the areas that had been the focus of this Strategy.
During the meeting, the discussions were focused on the following areas: 1. Biodiversity 2. Climate change 3. Persistent Organic Pollutants - POPs /
Chemicals,
4. Land degradation / sustainable land management and 5. International waters
ANNUAL REPORT 2016 • Agency for the Support of Civil Society 34
Consultative Roundtable "Public Participation in Decision-Making Process of the Albanian Parliament, a Focus on Parliamentary Transparency" Tirana, 18 May 2016
In the premises of the Albanian Parliament, under the involving the participation of all political forces. He stressed guidance of the Speaker of the Parliament, Mr. Ilir Meta, it that the OSCE have organized 14 forums, have supported was held a consultative roundtable on the topic "Public the Parliamentary Women Alliance, the Open Day of the Participation in Decision-Making Process of the Albanian Assembly, have contributed to building bridges of Parliament, a Focus on Parliamentary Transparency". cooperation between Parliament and civil society, have trained a group of trainers and have opened two pilot The event was welcomed by the Speaker of Parliament, Mr. offices in two counties of the country. Ilir Meta who outlined the role of the public in the decision- making process of this institution, which affects directly its Further, the word was given to the Secretary General of the activity. Parliament, Ms. Albana Shtylla, who presented the 2015 The Speaker of the Parliament confirmed that the Annual Report on Public Participation in Decision-Making institution of the Parliament will always be an open and Process and specifically, analyzed topics such as public inclusive institution with an effective administration, as participation in Parliamentary Committees, in plenary well. sessions, parliamentary transparency etc. In the meeting, Ms. Shtylla also praised the participation of The roundtable was also honored by the participation of the the representatives of civil society, groups of interests and Ambassador of the OSCE, Mr. Florian Raunig, Vice the media, as an opportunity to exchange views and ideas in Presidents of the Assembly, Mrs. Valentina Leskaj and Mr. the interest of citizens. Edmond Spaho, Minister of State for Relations with the Parliament, Mrs. Ermonela Felaj, MPs, representatives of Then, the roundtable continued with the discussions of the Diplomatic Bodies accredited in our country, participants, to improve cooperation between Parliament, representatives of the ASCS as well as civil society and Civil Society Organizations, media and the public. media representatives. Finally, the meeting was concluded with a number of The event was greeted by the OSCE Ambassador, Mr. recommendations which will improve its cooperation with Florian Raunig who praised highly their cooperation with civil society in the future. the institution of Parliament for a series of joint activities
ANNUAL REPORT 2016 • Agency for the Support of Civil Society 35 Round Table "Local administration after the election - reorganization challenges" Tirana, 24 May 2016
In the premises of the Prime Minister’s Office, within the idea of the current situation and promoting an inclusive public initiatives of the participants of the Albanian School public dialogue on problems and solutions. of Political Studies, it was organized an activity in the form of a roundtable with policy makers, government representatives, experts, a representative of the ASCS and representatives of civil society.
The event was greeted by Mr. Enea Hoti, advisor to the Minister for Local Government and Mr. Artan Shkëmbi, director of the Agency for Territorial Reform Implementation.
During this event it was discussed about the administrative- territorial reform, which aims to reduce administrative costs and increase the efficiency of services, based on the findings and recommendations of a research material, prepared by the organizing group.
The opened debate of the participants aimed to analyze the efficiency of this new reform aiming at fostering a new generation of political and civil society leaders, dedicated to the implementation of best democratic models of governance and development. Example of efficiency of this reform was analyzed Fier Municipality.
The participants appreciated the initiative of the participants of the School to study this important subject and stressed that it is necessary that the positive examples and problems that may have arisen after the implementation of the reform, be treated with proper attention and involvement of all stakeholders of the society.
During the discussions, it was given a number of opinions and suggestions from experts and representatives of groups of interest, which will be summarized in a document and be officially offered to the Albanian institutions and foreign diplomatic bodies in our country, in order to create a clearer
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Event in the framework of the project "STAR - An excellent example of cooperation" Tirana, 26 May 2016
At the National Gallery of Art, in the framework of the The event aimed to analyze the best models of the "Star - An excellent example of cooperation" project, it was democratic local government to the function of country organized an event with the representatives of central and development. As an example of the efficiency of this local government, experts of the field, representatives of reform it was analyzed Patos Municipality and the the foreign donors, representatives of the ASCS and Municipality of Tirana. representatives of civil society. The participants praised the achievements of this reform as very important and stressed that, it is necessary that the The event was greeted by Mr. Bledi Çuçi, Minister of State positive examples and problems which may have been for Local Government, Mr. Johan Ndisi, Chargé d'Affaires at faced during the implementation of the reform be treated the Embassy of Sweden in Tirana, Mrs. Rajmonda Balili, with proper attention and involvement of all actors of Mayor of Patos and z. Erion Veliaj, Mayor of Tirana. society.
During this event it was discussed on the Administrative- The meeting was concluded with a video presentation of Territorial Reform, the efficiency of this reform, which aims the journey of Territorial Administrative Reform and the to reduce administrative costs and provide better services support of the "STAR" project. to citizens.
ANNUAL REPORT 2016 • Agency for the Support of Civil Society 37 Conference: "Role of Civil Society in Public Administration Reform - EU Standards and Practices" Pristina (Kosovo), 6 - 8 June 2016
The representative of The Agency for the Support of Civil Society (ASCS), Mr. Erion Banushi participated in the conference "Role of Civil Society in Public Administration Reform – EU Standards and Practices", which was held in Pristina on 6 – 8 June 2016 by TACSO project and funded by European Union in Albania.
The purpose of this conference was to bring together around 80 participants from civil society, European Institutions and national authorities from the six countries of Western Balkan and Turkey to share experiences and ideas in regard to the Principles of Public Administration and EC Guidelines for Support to Civil Society in Enlargement Countries.
ANNUAL REPORT 2016 • Agency for the Support of Civil Society 38
ASCS announces the list of winning projects of Call No. 9
Tirana, 15 June 2016 ASCS thanks all the representatives of civil society organizations for the expressed interest in proposals under this call.
For more info, visit our official website: www.amshc.gov.al
The first meeting of National Council for Civil Society (NCCS) Tirana, 23 June 2016
After the finalization of the verification process of the votes and the announcement of the list of the members selected from civil society organizations for the National Council for Civil Society (NCCS), it was held the first meeting of NCCS at the Ministry of Social Welfare and Youth.
Meeting of the Joint Technical Committee Preveza (Greece), 16 June 2016 On the meeting was communicated regarding the As part of the Joint Technical Committee (Joint Technical application process, criteria and specifications of the budget Committee - JTC), the representative of the Agency for the line. The meeting was attended by representatives of civil Support of Civil Society (ASCS), Mr. Ferhat Aga, took part in society of both countries, but also representatives of the the meeting organized in the city of Preveza, Greece in the Government. framework of informative days on the Call 2 for project- proposals. These proposals focus in function on the IPA Cross Border Cooperation Programme Greece-Albania 2014-2020.
ANNUAL REPORT 2016 • Agency for the Support of Civil Society 39 Study Visit "Civil Society Inclusion in Decision-Making - the Estonia Model" Tallinn (Estonia), 27 - 30 June 2016
Within the framework of enabling environment component of the Guidelines for Supporting Civil Society in Enlargement Countries for the period 2014-2020, TACSO Albania Office and TACSO Serbia Office organized a study tour visit for the Supervisory Board, Executive Director and staff representatives of the Agency for Supporting Civil Society (ASCS) - Albania, public institutions in Serbia responsible for civil society and CSOs working on this issue.
The study tour focuses on acquaintance of strategies, mechanisms and cooperation models for improving the enabling environment for CSOs in Estonia, civil society- public cooperation as well as public funding for Civil Society.
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Meeting of the Joint Technical Committee Florina (Greece), 7 July 2016
As part of the Joint Technical Committee (Joint Technical Committee - JTC), the representatives of the Agency for the Support of Civil Society (ASCS), Mr. Ferhat Aga and Mr. Andi Luga, took part in the meeting organized in the city of Florina, Greece in the framework of informative days on the Call 2 for project-proposals. These proposals focus in function on the IPA Cross Border Cooperation Programme Greece-Albania 2014-2020.
On the meeting was communicated regarding the application process, criteria and specifications of the budget line.
Meeting of the Joint Technical Committee Corfu (Greece), 13 July 2016
As part of the Joint Technical Committee (Joint Technical Committee - JTC), the representatives of the Agency for the Support of Civil Society (ASCS) Mr. Andi Kananaj - Executive Director and Mr. Ferhat Aga - Specialist of Grants for the Development of Civil Society took part in the meeting organized in Corfu, Greece in the framework of informative days on the Call 2 for project- proposals.
These proposals focus in function on the IPA Cross Border Cooperation Programme Greece-Albania 2014-2020.
ANNUAL REPORT 2016 • Agency for the Support of Civil Society 41 Roundtable with local and foreign donors Tirana, 15 July 2016
In the premises of the Delegation of the EU, ABA Business Center, on the initiative of Mr. Stefano Calabretta, Program Manager for Civil Society, EU and Mrs. Claudia Vollmer, Head of Democratization Department, the OSCE, organized a meeting with local and foreign donors, contributing to civil society sector and the Local Advisory Group (LAG) to TACSO in Albania. The meeting was attended by representatives of civil society organizations, governmental institutions and international donor institutions, to assist in the development of civil society in Albania. During the first part of the meeting it was discussed and emphasis was placed on the advisory function that has LAG, which provides advice on legal and institutional environment to enable successful functioning of CSOs, needs and priorities of capacity building and confront the challenges faced by CSOs. Participants presented also the work done so far to help the CSO and especially representatives of the ASCS emphasized the hard work done by the ASCS and the Ministry of Social Welfare and Youth, with the help of the EU representative office, in the establishment of the National Council for Civil Society. Further, the meeting continued with the presentation of all the donors to the successes achieved by the projects financed by them for the period 2014-2016 and goals for the future.
PERFORM - Social science research funding project kicks off Tirana, 20 July 2016
Swiss Ambassador Christoph Graf and Minister of Education Lindita Nikolla signed the agreement on implementing the PERFORM programme, which promotes social sciences in Albania. The Swiss government provides almost 2 million Euros to fund social science research in Albania. This event was also attended by a representative of the ASCS.
PERFORM will be implemented in Albania and Serbia and will fund research and studies that can add value to decisions made on public issues. Links between policies and social sciences are weak whereas evidence and recommendations by social science experts would be beneficial for decisions made by authorities and public institutions. This programme will aim to make studies and findings by researchers available and offer them as evidence in policies and decision-making. In addition, public debates on various issues will be informed from research carried out in several fields of social sciences.
The main beneficiaries of this programme will be universities, research institutes, non-profit organisations and academics.
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The annual debate: “Raising Standards, Declining Trends? Operating Environment for Civil Society in Enlargement Countries” Brussels (Belgium), 7 September 2016
The Balkan Civil Society Development Network (BCSDN) organised the annual debate “Raising Standards, Declining Trends? Operating Environment for Civil Society in Enlargement Countries”, which took place at the Residence Palace, Brussels. The event was organised with the occasion of the presentation of the 2015 Monitoring Matrix Regional Report and brought CSO representatives from Western Balkans and Turkey to present the key challenges for the civil society operating environment in their countries. The aim was to raise a discussion with the Commission, other EU institutions and stakeholders on how the EU Accession Process can promote a stronger and more empowered civil society that enhances political accountability and fosters deeper understanding of accession related reforms ahead of the publication of the Enlargement Package and Country Progress Reports form 2015-2016. The presented findings were based on an extensive monitoring conducted by BCSDN’s members and organizations through the jointly developed tool – Monitoring Matrix on Enabling Environment for Civil Society Development supported by the European Commission and the Balkan Trust for Democracy.
Participation in the "Running for Cooperation" activity Krystallopigi (Greece), 25 September 2016
Representatives from the Agency for Promotion of Civil Society, participated in the activity entitled "Running for Cooperation" held in the framework of the "European Cooperation Day 2016" of the IPA Cross-Border Programme Greece-Albania. The event was attended by about 100 participants, representatives of public institutions by the Greek and Albanian. The purpose of this initiative consists in the removal of border barriers interstate and friendship between the two neighboring countries. The running race started from Krystallopigi (Greece) to Billisht (Albania), where the record for men was 38 minutes and for women was 47 minutes.
Participating in the international "KABA Festival" Korçë, 10 – 12 October 2016
Representatives of the Agency for the Support of Civil Society took part in the international "KABA Festival", which was held in the city of Korça. In this event, guests were Albanian and foreign artists, thereby harmonizing the art of music even when this is different. The participation was extensive, by developing further the scope of this event, which was mainly focused on the art intersection of different cultures. This project is funded by the Agency for the Support of Civil Society (ASCS) in the framework of the Call No. 9.
ANNUAL REPORT 2016 • Agency for the Support of Civil Society 43 The awareness campaign "Donate Hair, Give Hope!" Tirana, 15 October 2016
In the framework of the International Month for Breast Cancer Awareness, the "Europa Donna Albania" association organized a one-day campaign to donating hair for women affected by this disease. Later, the donated hair will turn in personalized wig for patients who request them. Well-known hairdressers voluntarily contributed to the realization of this initiative.
To support the cause, present at the event were women and girls as well as representative of the Agency for the Support of Civil Society (ASCS).
In the opening of this activity, Donjeta Zeqa, the head of the association, expressed the emotions for this initiative by sharing with all participants its family history.
In this activity were forwarded awareness messages by known personalities as Lajla Përnaska, Fiori Dardha, Irma Libohova, Jona Dervishi as well as patients who have been able to successfully overcome the disease.
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WOMEX 16 (World Music Expo) Santiago de Compostela, Galicia (Spain), 19 - 23 October 2016
Chairman of the Supervisory Board of the ASCS, Mr. Adrian Thano and Executive Director of the ASCS, Mr. Andi Kananaj attended the WOMEX (World Music Expo) event, which took place in the old town of Santiago de Compostela, Spain, organized by Balkan World Music Management.
WOMEX (World Music Expo) is most diverse music event of the world, is a trade fair, world music festival, professional conference, screening of music documentaries, award ceremony and DJ Summit, which combines local intimacy with global horizon.
This five-day event helps multicultural presentation of participating countries, the exchange of best practices and support for local culture, based on the previous experience of this event.
Training for potential applicants under IPA 2014-2020 Pogradec, 20 - 21 tetor 2016
The representatives of the Agency for the Support of Civil Society (ASCS) took part in the two days training for Potential Applicants under the first Call for Proposals of the IPA II CBC Programme MK – AL, which was held in Pogradec. The main objective of this activity is to increase the capacity of potential applicants to apply with quality projects under IPA 2014- 2020.
Main topics of the training were about generating a project idea, application fill in, budgeting, logical framework, etc.
ANNUAL REPORT 2016 • Agency for the Support of Civil Society 45
Brussels Urged to Support Balkan Civic Society Groups 25 November 2016
The BCSDN observed that, according to Brussels, civic organisations are too “dependent on limited number of donors and other sources, hindering their ability to plan long-term and work independently”.
This was because in most countries governments had failed to establish “frameworks and transparent access to and distribution of public funds”.
While steps have been taken to The civic society network BCSDN in a Commission will need to both push establish better cooperation between new report has called on the European further and higher,” it said. state and civic organisations in Albania, Commission to deepen its commitment Bosnia and Serbia, by establishing state to civil society groups and initiatives in The network urged the Commission to or local bodies, or appointing figures to the Balkan region. “provide clear progress (or its lack) on lead dialogue with NGOs, there is still EU CS Guidelines targets to show much room across the region for the The Balkan Civil Society Development concrete results and achievements with further engagement of civic society Network, BCSDN, in its latest report, the Guidelines and needed adjustments groups in policy-making. says civic organisations in Balkan on the road ahead to 2020”, in its next countries are at a critical juncture in reports in 2018. The BCSDN stated that the Commission their initiatives in key areas such as had failed to take note that “the media freedom, rule of law and anti- The BCSDN wrote that the Commission involvement of CSOs in service provision corruption. had noted numerous issues that civic on behalf of the state is under-regulated activists and organisations are facing. and rarely practiced”. The report urged the European Commission to “continue its support for “Restrictions on freedom of association critical and strategic national and were this year again reported in regional civil society initiatives that it Montenegro and Turkey as well as in has helped to develop and shape.” Macedonia. While in Montenegro this was due to intimidation of civil society The BCSDN report, which analyses the activists, freedom of association was latest Commission progress reports on overtly restricted in Turkey as part of Balkan countries, highlighted that the the post-coup measures taken by the EU had “noted the declining pace of Government. reforms, a trend towards authorita- rianism and an unstable economic “In Macedonia, targeted investigations situation in Enlargement countries”, and infringement of privacy by law- while assigning an important role to enforcement agencies, when CSOs civic society organisations as the “fourth disagreed with the government on pillar” of democracy in the Balkans. sensitive political issues, were noted,” the BCSDN wrote. However, the BCSDN stated that the Commission had not addressed the Additionally, the Commission also problem that these organisations “still observed that activists in Macedonia, do not sufficiently diversify their Montenegro, Serbia and Turkey faced funding, remaining overly-dependents smear campaigns run by pro- on limited public funding and foreign government media. funds”. “Considering the lack of significant In Macedonia, activists in the anti- progress in the structural reform government “Colourful Revolution” process in all countries and the political movement had been fined and taken to instability, providing the background for court following civil disobedience during increased attacks and pressure on civil the protests. society activists and CSOs, the
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Round table "Discussion of Agenda 2013 for an Enabling discussion with key development actors of civil society and Environment for Civil Society" other interest stakeholders in Albania. Tirana, 25 November 2016 In this round table it was appreciated the experience of the 2013-2016 years for addressing the priorities for an enabling environment and the challenges for the fulfillment of results and also it was reviewed the addressing of the rest of the Agenda. At this meeting were gathered civil society actors, the donor community, government and other political actors - in a discussion forum, advocacy and networking to further advance with the implementation of Agenda 2013.
This round table was organized in framework of the project "Acquis Balkan Civil Society - Strengthening the Advocacy and Monitoring Potential and capacities of CSOs" financed by the The ASCS Executive Director, Mr. Andi Kananaj participated in European Union through the Instrument of Pre-Accession a round table on enabling environment for civil society, (IPA) and the Civil Society Facility (CSF) and implemented by organized by the Institute for Democracy and Mediation the Balkan Civil Society Development Network (BCSDN), (IDM), which was held in the premises of Hotel Tirana member of which is IDM. International.
The role and involvement of civil society remains essential not only in the country's path towards the EU, but also in all developing processes in Albanian society.
In December 2013 a priority action agenda was arranged between the government and representatives of CSOs in the country, but in the context of the upcoming elections of the 2017, it is important to re-visit the Agenda 2013, in an open
The consultative meeting with civil society on the 2016 Report of the European Commission for Albania Tirana, 1 December 2016 The ASCS representative, Mr. Erion Banushi participated in a consultative meeting with civil society on the 2016 Report of the European Commission to Albania, meeting which was organized by the Ministry of European Integration and was held in Tirana International Hotel. Deputy Minister of European Integration, Mrs. Eralda Cani led the meeting and present were representatives of the Ministry of European Integration and representatives of Civil Society Organizations.
The Deputy Minister made a presentation of the findings and recommendations of the Report on the 5 priorities, noting that despite the progress made and the positive recommendation for the opening of negotiations, there are still many challenges ahead. During the meeting the representatives of civil society raised questions, made comments and discussions on various topics according to their area of expertise on the EC report on Albania.
Representatives of civil society said that information on the integration process in the districts is still necessary for citizens. According to the representatives of civil society, the government should be more favorable to them and organize more training and briefings in the framework of applications for EU funds.
ANNUAL REPORT 2016 • Agency for the Support of Civil Society 47 Opened in Tirana the Regional Youth Cooperation Office, RYCO Tirana, 8 December 2016
In the framework of the Berlin process and as part of this commitment, opened in Tirana the Regional Youth Cooperation Office (RYCO) based on inspiring model of Franco-German youth cooperation.
ASCS is one of the funders of this project, which is being implemented by the Institute for Cooperation and Development (CDI), which provides detailed information and awareness of young Albanians over this office (RYCO); promoting and increasing access to information of the young people and youth organizations in initiatives and projects that this office will support. The promoting of this office was made during the first regional conference on youth cooperation.
National Conference: “Boasting towards a better enabling environment for Civil Society Organizations in Albania” Tirana, 13 December 2016
The representatives of ASCS, Mr. Andi Kananaj - Executive Director of ASCS, accompanied by Mr. Erion Banushi - Head of Sector “Projects Development” and representatives of National Council for Civil Society (NCCS) took part in the National Conference: “Boasting towards a better enabling environment for Civil Society Organizations in Albania”, organized by TACSO Albania Office, which was held in premises of Tirana International Hotel.
In this conference has been shown a high participation of 110 civil society organizations, government representa-tives and Partners supporting the activity of CSOs in Albania. The purpose of the conference was to encourage an enabling environment for CSOs in Albania and to strengthen the coopera-tion with public institutions for further improvement of the legal and fiscal legislation, increasing the quality and effectiveness of institutional structures and mechanisms among the two sectors.
During the opening of the conference, the EU Ambassador, Ms. Romana Vlahutin highlighted the crucial need of an effective and systematic dialogue between institutions and civil society in Albania: the institutions need to show increased political commitment and concrete actions towards strengthening civil society role, capacities and environment, and civil society has to exercise both its active citizenship and watchdog role.
The EU Ambassador, Ms. Romana Vlahutin addressed at the conference that the country is in the middle of extremely important reforms, and it is essential that the voice of citizens in Albania is much louder. Citizen's participation is essential for democracy to be functional.
This conference addressed important messages to the government representa-tives and brought in focus the importance of dialogue in setting out to solve the problematic issues of undue bureaucratic burdens inappropriate taxes and fiscal obligations, heavy financial reporting and lack of incentives for donations and/or philanthropy by corporate and individuals. The list of concrete fiscal proposals and amendments will be presented to the National Council for Civil Society and the Ministry of Finance.
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Social Event "Chill & Chat" Tirana, 14 December 2016
Agency for the Support of Civil Society (ASCS) in cooperation with the Cultural Association “Hemingway Fun Club Albania” organized the social event "Chill & Chat" in the premises of the “Hemingway Fun Club Albania”, at 19:00.
This event was attended by the Executive Director of the ASCS and staff; representatives of civil society, as well as local & international donor organizations, whom friendly chatted on ASCS’s activities during 2016, challenges and targets for 2017 focusing on enhancing the capacity of NGOs in the country.
During this event has been presented a short presentation of social & cultural activities organized by Cultural Association “Hemingway Fun Club Albania”.
ASCS held consultative meetings on the prioritization of the Call no. 10 December 2016
Representatives from the Agency for the Support of Civil Society (ASCS) held consultative meetings with representatives of civil society in some cities, in order to receive feedback / suggestions and assistance on the prioritization of the Call and also the manner of the Call implementation.
These consultative meetings were held in these cities: Kukës, Gjirokastra, Puka and Pogradec, respectively on 14, 16, 20 and 23 December 2016. Kukës, 14 December 2016
Gjirokastër, 16 December 2016
Pukë, 20 December 2016 Pogradec, 23 December 2016
ANNUAL REPORT 2016 • Agency for the Support of Civil Society 49