Seven cities in Albania sign European Charter for equality
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Seven municipalities in Albania have joined cities across Europe by signing the European Charter for Equality of women and men in local life. Gjirokastra, Korça, Tirana, Elbasan, Durres, Shkodra and Permet have signed the Charter within a year, formally committing to the principle of equality between women and men with the objective of achieving a better life for all members of the community.
They have publicly committed to a draft, implement the "Action Plan for Equality" and report regularly about its progress.
"In the name of this new standard, and the benefits that the municipality will have from this Charter, we are willing to accomplish all our obligations that we have in promoting equality`, said Zamira Rami, Mayor of Gjirokastra Municipality that was the first one to sign.
The articles of the Charter describe measures that municipalities and regions need to take to work towards advancing gender equality in a range of areas under their competences and to improve the quality of life for the citizens.
"The obligations that arise from this important international document, are at the center of decision-making in the Municipality of Tirana", highlighted Mayor Erion Veliaj at the signing of the Charter on International Women`s Day.
"The commitment of these municipalities to gender equality is directly supporting the EU accession process. The Charter is a practical tool to help local governments implement EU legislation and directives on gender equality", says UN Women Representative Mr. David Saunders.
UN Women in Albania through the Gender Equality facility project, has facilitated the signing in all municipalities with the support of the Austrian Development Agency.
Despite key achievements that Albania has made in gender equality and women's empowerment, there are many challenges for women and men to enjoy equal rights in public, political and economic life.
By signing the Charter, municipalities in Albania can benefit from the best European practices by increasing their presence at the European level, as well as their cooperation in the area of gender equality.