Today in the premises of the Ministry of Health and Social Protection the main features of the National Action Plan for LGBTI People in Albania 2021-2027 were highlighted. The Action Plan aims to ensure an inclusive, non-discriminatory, and safe society for LGBTI people in Albania with better access to public services and specialised support, improved legal framework and implementation, as well increasing the access of LGBTI people to the justice system.

Addressing the event, Minister Ogerta Manastirliu emphasised  that Albania has made significant progress in recent years regarding the protection of the rights of LGBTI + persons, this is also emphasized in international reports. But despite the achievements, we are aware that the battle against stereotypes and prejudiced attitudes is long and difficult. The presentation of this plan, which aims for more justice and equality in the protection of the freedoms and rights of the LGBTI + community, is a proof of the fact that the efforts for more rights and non-discrimination for this community are possible through concrete, multisectoral and that require the involvement of all actors”.

In his remarks, EU Ambassador to Albania Luigi Soreca stressed that: “The LGBTI National Action Plan for the years 2021-2027 represents a great achievement for Albania in the field of protection and promotion of the rights of vulnerable groups. It is of great political importance also for the EU integration agenda of Albania. A country that aims at joining the European Union must adhere to the fundamental principles of the EU. Respect of fundamental rights, tolerance and acceptance of diversity are non-negotiable. The EU, the EU Delegation and myself will continue our involvement and support of LGBTI and will follow the implementation of the Action Plan”.

Jutta Gützkow, Head of the Council of Europe in Tirana, underlined the importance of each actor in building an inclusive and tolerant society that respects LGBTI rights and freedoms in line with European values and standards. “I am pleased to see that today’s event brings together the Minister of Health and Social Protection, representatives from other ministries and state institutions and the equality bodies as well as civil society actors working together for equality and an inclusive society. Your participation in today’s event proves your commitment to join forces for a successful implementation of the LGBTI National Action Plan 2021-2027.”, highlighted Gützkow in her remarks.

In his remarks, Mr. Michele Ribotta, UN Woman Representative in Albania stressed that: “The national Action Plan for LGBTI is another step towards building an inclusive society in which every individual – regardless of their gender identity and sexual orientation - can live a life free from fear, discrimination and exclusion. Albania is sending a strong signal in support of tolerance and diversity, and leaving no one behind.”

The new LGBTI National Action Plan, developed by the Ministry of Health and Social Protection with the expertise provided by the EU and Council of Europe action “Promotion of diversity and equality in Albania”, sets key priorities and envisages joint efforts of different stakeholders to protect and promote the rights of the LGBTI community in the country. It reflects the special attention that the Government of Albania and all other actors in the field are paying to the development of a society based on rights, merits and professional values of each individual.  

The discussion on the Action Plan with representatives of public authorities, equality bodies, civil society organisations and international partners, highlighted the specific roles of each stakeholder in ensuring inclusiveness of the Plan and its efficient start.

In the battle against stereotypes and prejudiced patriarchal attitudes, the Acton Plan defines the need for committing various resources and taking a range of well-coordinated actions between all key actors aimed at fundamentally changing the mindset.  It focuses on informing, educating and raising awareness to accept everyone as they are and as they feel in terms of their gender identity or sexual orientation.

The National Action Plan for LGBTI people in Albania was prepared and presented by the Ministry of Health and Social Protection with the support of the joint European Union and Council of Europe “Horizontal Facility II” programme, a co-operation initiative aimed at supporting Western Balkans and Turkey to comply with Council of Europe standards and the European Union acquis in the framework of the enlargement process.