TIRANA, July 30 – The Council of Europe says Albania’s planned municipal mergers should follow a detailed review of the 2015 territorial reform and real consultations with affected communities.
A preliminary report by rapporteurs Anders Knape and Soren Schumacher, prepared in March 2026, warns that weaknesses in local government should not result in greater central control. Instead, it calls for stronger financial and administrative capacities for municipalities.
According to the document, local authorities have received only limited information about the process so far. The rapporteurs note that the European Charter of Local Self-Government does not prevent territorial changes or municipal mergers. However, it requires authorities to consult affected communities in advance.
At the same time, the draft report raises concerns that Albania could hold only formal consultations if the government prioritizes its announced 2026 reform deadline.
The document also points to a contradiction between the creation of larger municipalities and the continued centralization of services such as waste management, water supply and education. It says local government units still lack full and exclusive powers over several responsibilities.
As a result, Albania has not fully implemented the principle of subsidiarity, according to the rapporteurs. They argue that limited municipal capacities should not justify transferring responsibilities back to central institutions.
Instead, the report recommends strengthening local administrative and financial resources. It also calls for a broader discussion on the future of Albania’s 12 counties, which it says do not currently operate as full local self-government units under the principles of the European Charter.
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