Around 100,000 children facing social exclusion or complex vulnerabilities will benefit from Albania’s European Child Guarantee Action Plan 2026–2030.
The plan covers social protection, healthcare, and education. As a result, it will improve access to quality services. It will also give children equal opportunities to grow and succeed.
Health and Social Protection Minister Evis Sala met with national and international partners. During the meeting, she said the plan shows a strong commitment to children and families in need.
“Our challenge is to turn every good policy into real action,” Sala said. “Every reform, service, and investment must improve the lives of children and families.”
According to Sala, the plan builds on recent reforms. For example, it strengthens financial support for vulnerable families. It also expands early childhood care. In addition, it promotes inclusive education. Finally, it brings health and social services closer together.
Sala highlighted two key measures. First, the government will double financial support for about 11,000 children with disabilities. Second, it will recognize social security contributions for their caregivers.
Furthermore, Sala said the European Child Guarantee goes beyond Albania’s EU integration process. Instead, it reflects the country’s commitment to every child. Its goal is to provide equal opportunities and a better future.
Meanwhile, Edouard Beigbeder, Regional Director of UNICEF for Europe, Central Asia, the Middle East, and North Africa, praised Albania’s leadership.
He said Albania leads the region with a plan based on strong evidence, broad consultations, and effective coordination. Moreover, he said the investment will help reduce child poverty. It will also promote social inclusion and support future generations.
Likewise, Miha Pezelj, representative of the Delegation of the European Union to Albania, called the European Child Guarantee one of the EU’s strongest tools against child poverty and social exclusion.
He added that the European Union launched the initiative in 2021. Since then, it has aimed to ensure children in need receive free access to essential services.
Overall, the European Child Guarantee Action Plan 2026–2030 will guide joint action over the next five years. At the same time, it will strengthen cooperation between state institutions, international partners, and civil society. Ultimately, the plan aims to ensure every child in Albania has access to quality services and equal opportunities.
