Policy Forum: Business as major employer: Promotion and partnership with state institutions

On January 28, 2014, European Movement Albania (EMA) in cooperation with Balkan Trust for Democracy organized the policy forum on “Business as major employer: Promotion and partnership with state institutions”. The event brought together stakeholders, field researchers, representatives of business, organizations (GIZ – EDEP, Albanian Development Fund, OXFAM, Partners Albania AmipaA, RISIAlbania, Save the Children, ICMPD( International Centre for Migration Policy Development), media, etc.,to stimulate discussions on the theme of unemployment and the role that businesses can play in reducing it.

Distinguished speakers of the event were: Mrs. Brunilda Paskali, Deputy Minister of Economic Development, Trade and Entrepreneurship, Mr. Genci Kojdheli, General Directorat National Employment Service and representatives of business community. The forum was moderated by Executive Director of EMA, Mr. Gledis Gjipali. During the forum, the policy study conducted by EMA’s researchers will be presented. Mr. Dorian Jano, EMA researcher, analyzed and compared the experiences and performances of other countries, mainly from Eastern Europe, identifying best practices implemented so far, as models to be considered in the case of Albania.

Mrs. Paskali, listed continuous challenges in SMEs development and the initiatives taken by the ministry such as: 1)The government is concentrated in providing incentives to enterprises, in developing new policies for investments, improving the image of the country, as well as in diversification of exports; 2) As a result of consultation with Fason (textile industries), a package of legal measures will be provided to contribute in increasing the number of employees; 3)Ministry of Economic Development, Trade and Entrepreneurship will provide support for women entrepreneurs, offering a program of measures which will support them with concrete steps to be represented and involved in entrepreneurship; 4)Financial support and capacity improvement were provided by the European Fund for Southeast Europe, Competition Fund, Creative Economy Fund , Strategic Programme Fund for Technological Innovation etc.

Mr. Kojdheli, talked about the partnership with business to create employment by emphasizing:1)Thanks to National Employment Service, organizational and structural reforms are implemented to raise awareness of businesses and citizens on the services, recruitment, trainings offered by Labour Offices; 2) One goal of Ministry of Social Well-Being and Youth goal is to extend their impact and commitment in rural areas. 3)Particular attention is paid to the development of the dual system in Albania (Vocational Education System). 4) Thanks to Project Recognition of Prior Learning, importance will be given to immigrants. National Employment Service will offer assistance to students who have finished the studies abroad in order to adapt their knowledge and professional skills in Albanian labour market.

The event was followed by discussion when participants brought questions related the topics presented.