At the conference on the Municipal Performance Measurement System, which was also attended by the Minister of State for Local Governance, Ervin Demo, Ström emphasised that the findings presented today demonstrate the value of this instrument and assist municipalities in delivering services with transparency and accountability, creating a fair, data-driven approach to local governance.

“The performance-based grant marks the culmination of collaboration between Switzerland, Sweden, and the Albanian Government. The scheme, which involves all Albanian municipalities, provides support in a fair and equitable manner. I would like to emphasise that municipal performance and accountability hinge on their ability to collect local revenues sustainably. Since 2018, Sweden, through its taxpayers, has supported Albania in developing a modern property tax system, which will increase municipal revenues,” he said.
“This is vital for fiscal decentralisation. Our support will conclude in December, and the coming years will be decisive for Albania. The shift to a Digital Cadastre will be a major milestone, strengthening municipal capacities and contributing to a stronger Albania,” Ström said.

The Swedish Ambassador noted that municipalities are increasingly capable of planning their own development while assuming responsibility for their performance.
He further stated that this indicates the institutional maturity necessary in Albania and provides a solid foundation for the effective deployment of cohesion funds.
“I hope this initiative represents a new way of thinking about local governance—a framework that fosters innovation and encourages those who work within it. Sweden is proud to back such an initiative in Albania. We remain committed to a future in which municipalities are empowered and enjoy autonomy. Democracy must be the key, because power belongs to the people, and the people expect performance and accountability,” said the Swedish Ambassador.
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