The National Center for the Treatment of Victims of Domestic Violence strives to empower victims of domestic violence (women, girls, children aged 0-18) by providing high-quality, sustainable, and contemporary social services and support. Its objective is to foster their independence, inclusion, dignity, and integration into society, while meeting their social care needs.

Reçi told ATA that from January 1, 2024, to December 2 of this year, 43 residents were treated, including 14 women and 29 children (12 girls and 17 boys). Among them, two were minors, unaccompanied by their guardians or parents. Of these, only one resident was a foreign national (Bulgarian).

Reçi states that “The number of beneficiaries during the period from January 1, 2024, to December 2, 2024, has been 41 residents, including 15 women and 26 children (12 girls and 14 boys). Among these residents, 5 were from the Roma community (1 woman and 4 children), consisting of 2 females and 2 males. During 2024, four residents, along with their minor children, were integrated with the support of rent payments, primarily provided by the organization ‘Equal Differences’ and the Psycho-Social Center ‘Vatra’.”

Reçi reports that “From January 1, 2024, to December 2, 2024, a total of 41 beneficiaries were served, including 15 women and 26 children (12 girls and 14 boys). Among these, 5 individuals were from the Roma community (1 woman and 4 children), with 2 females and 2 males. In 2024, four residents, along with their minor children, were successfully integrated with assistance for rent payments, primarily supported by the “Të ndryshëm të Barabartë’’ organization and the ‘Vatra’ Psycho-Social Center.”

As part of the 16 Days of Orange activities, which will be carried out in collaboration with the State Social Service “Human Library,” featuring all stakeholders who cooperate with the National Center for the Treatment of Victims of Domestic Violence. They assist in facilitating the reintegration process for residents after they leave the shelter. The activities also include awareness sessions in schools operating in the municipalities of Kamza and Tirana, as well as a training session by OSCE for the residents of the National Center for the Treatment of Victims of Domestic Violence on the topic: “Improving job search capabilities” ” among others.

The National Center for the Treatment of Victims of Domestic Violence teams up with the Ministry of Health and Social Protection, along with other institutions, to provide services for victims of domestic violence. These services include rent assistance, social bonus benefits, food packages upon leaving, free legal support, child enrolment in daycare, kindergarten, and schools, as well as registration at Employment Offices.

“Albania is acknowledged for its progress in legislation addressing domestic violence and violence against women, as highlighted in the latest report published by GREVIO (Group of Experts on Action against Violence against Women and Domestic Violence). Over the years, Albanian laws have evolved, enhancing policies and offering improved support to victims of domestic violence. Under Law 25/2020, which amends Law No. 9669 of December 18, 2006, concerning measures against domestic violence, the court can immediately order the perpetrator to leave the home for a specified period if the victim and perpetrator reside together. Additionally, with the approval of Decision No. 898 on December 29, 2021, which amends and supplements Decision No. 597 of September 4, 2019, by the Council of Ministers,” she stated.

Another key aspect highlighted in the GREVIO report is the urgent execution of protection and restraining orders against abusive partners. “Due to the persistent fear that victims experience when reporting violence, we often encounter hesitation from domestic violence victims in proceeding with criminal complaints against the perpetrator, even though they request a protection order against them. Although the law explicitly states that the perpetrator must leave the residence, we have found that this is not always properly enforced. The National Center for the Treatment of Victims of Domestic Violence (QKTVDHF) has an interactive collaboration with the State Police. Specifically, the police assist us by escorting victims of violence with patrols when the victim has a protection order, in cases where personal belongings need to be retrieved, and when there are meetings between the perpetrator and children, especially when the children are not included in the protection order,” adds Reçi.

According to Reçi, a total of over four thousand cases of violence against women and girls were reported in the country during 2024. “If we make a geographical breakdown, statistically, our center has seen a higher number of cases from the north, mainly Kukës, while from the south there are more cases from Fier and Vlorë. The level of awareness is generally higher in Tirana, Durrës, and Korça compared to other regions,” concludes Reçi. /j.p/sm/