The plan sets out coordinated measures across the social welfare, health and education sectors to expand access to quality services and promote equal opportunities for children’s development.

Speaking at a meeting with national and international stakeholders involved in drafting and implementing the plan, Health and Social Protection Minister Evis Sala said the strategy represented a concrete commitment to supporting children and families most in need.

“Our challenge today, and my personal commitment as minister, is to ensure that every sound policy is successfully implemented, so that every reform, service and investment envisaged in this plan translates into real improvements in the lives of our children and families,” Sala said.

She said the plan builds on reforms introduced in recent years to strengthen support for children and families, including expanding economic assistance, broadening early childhood care services, developing family- and community-based care, promoting inclusive education and better integrating health and social services.

Among the measures highlighted by Sala is a doubling of financial support for around 11,000 children with disabilities, alongside recognition of social security contributions for their caregivers.

She said the European Child Guarantee was not only part of Albania’s European Union accession process but also reflected the country’s commitment to ensuring equal opportunities and a better future for every child.

Edouard Beigbeder, UNICEF Regional Director for Europe and Central Asia, the Middle East and North Africa, praised Albania for taking a leading role in the region in preparing and implementing the action plan.

“The development of this national plan has been based on strong evidence, broad consultation and effective cross-sector coordination,’ Beigbeder said, adding that it demonstrated Albania’s commitment to tackling child poverty, promoting social inclusion and investing in future generations.

Miha Pezelj, a representative of the European Union Delegation to Albania, described the European Child Guarantee as one of the EU’s main instruments for combating child poverty and social exclusion.

The 2026-2030 Action Plan will guide inter-institutional efforts over the next five years, strengthening cooperation between government institutions, international partners and civil society organisations to improve access to quality services and equal opportunities for children across Albania.

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