UNICEF Regional Director Edouard Beigbeder Visits Albania
Strengthening partnerships to advance child rights, human capital development, and EU-aligned reforms.
UNICEF Regional Director Edouard Beigbeder Visits Albania to Advance Human Capital Development and Accelerate Progress Towards European Standards for Children and Young People
Tirana, Albania, 31 July 2026 UNICEF Regional Director for Europe, Central Asia, Middle East and North Africa, Edouard Beigbeder, concluded an official visit to Albania, reaffirming UNICEF's commitment to supporting the country's efforts to build, protect and utilize human capital through investments in children, adolescents and young people.
During his visit, the Regional Director met with senior Government leaders, representatives of the European Union, municipal authorities, civil society organizations, development partners and young people to discuss Albania's progress and priorities for children as the country advances on its path towards European Union membership.
The visit focused on strengthening the policies, systems and investments needed to ensure that every child can survive, learn, thrive and contribute to Albania's future prosperity.
"Albania's greatest asset is its people. The country's future growth, competitiveness and social cohesion will depend on how effectively it invests in its children and young people today," said Edouard Beigbeder.
"Building human capital means ensuring that every child has the opportunity to develop, learn, acquire skills and participate fully in society."
The Regional Director welcomed Albania's efforts to align its national reforms with European standards and highlighted the importance of embedding proven European frameworks, including the European Child Guarantee and the Youth Guarantee, into national strategies, action plans and EU accession processes.
"The Child Guarantee and Youth Guarantee are not only social policies. They are investments in human capital. They help countries reduce inequalities, expand opportunities and strengthen resilience while ensuring that no child or young person is left behind."
Discussions throughout the visit emphasized that human capital development requires coordinated action across sectors and levels of government. Strong partnerships between central institutions, municipalities, the European Union, civil society organizations, academia, communities and the private sector are essential for delivering sustainable results for children.
The Regional Director acknowledged Albania's growing commitment to strengthening inclusive education, child protection systems, social protection, early childhood development, adolescent wellbeing and youth transition to employment, while ensuring that the most vulnerable children benefit from these reforms.
Particular attention was given to children living in poverty, children with disabilities, Roma and Egyptian children, children affected by migration, and young people facing barriers to education, skills development and employment.
During meetings with municipal leaders, the Regional Director emphasized the critical role of local governments in translating national policies into concrete services and opportunities for children and families.
Young people participating in UNICEF-supported initiatives shared their aspirations for Albania's future and their vision of a society where all young people have access to quality education, skills, employment opportunities and meaningful participation in decision-making.
"Young people are not only beneficiaries of development. They are agents of change and essential partners in shaping Albania's future."
UNICEF remains committed to supporting Albania's ambition to build a prosperous, inclusive and resilient society by strengthening the country's human capital and accelerating progress for every child. Together with the Government of Albania, the European Union, municipalities and civil society organizations, UNICEF will continue to advance evidence-based reforms and investments that place children and young people at the heart of the country's development and European integration journey.
