Climate Bridges Connects Albanian Stakeholders for Climate Cooperation

On May 29, 2025, the Urban Research Institute (URI) hosted a successful national exchange event in Tirana as part of the Climate Bridges Network project. The event brought together over 30 representatives from civil society organisations (CSOs), local and national government institutions, and climate experts from across Albania for a day of presentations, open discussions, and valuable networking.

Introducing the Climate Bridges Vision

The event opened with comprehensive presentations about the Climate Bridges Network project and its ambitious goals for fostering transnational climate cooperation across the Western Balkans. Participants learned about the project’s three main pillars: awareness-raising campaigns, governance innovation through Local Green Agendas (LGAs), and capacity building initiatives.

The URI project team presented the concrete progress made so far, including the ongoing process of developing the LGAs in pilot municipalities like Elbasan, the growing network that now spans over 60 organisations across 8 countries. The presentation highlighted how Albania fits into this broader regional framework and the opportunities for Albanian organisations to contribute to and benefit from transnational collaboration.

Open Dialogue and Shared Experiences

Following the presentations, the event shifted to open discussion sessions where participants shared their experiences, challenges, and ideas about climate action in Albania. Representatives from various CSOs discussed their current climate initiatives, while government officials shared insights about national climate policies and local implementation challenges.

The discussions revealed both common ground and diverse perspectives on climate action priorities. Environmental CSOs emphasised the importance of public awareness and community engagement, while municipal representatives highlighted the practical challenges of implementing climate policies with limited resources.

Learning from Project Insights

Participants showed particular interest in learning about the project’s Best Practices Toolbox, which is expected to compile successful climate initiatives from across the Western Balkans. The presentation of good practices from neighbouring countries sparked engaging conversations about what could be adapted to the Albanian context.

The concept of LGAs generated significant discussion and curiosity about how the participatory approach could be applied with the engagement of local communities. The collaborative methodology that brings together CSOs, local government, and community representatives resonated with many participants who saw it as a potential model for improving local climate governance.

Building Connections and Networks

One of the event’s greatest strengths was the informal networking that took place throughout the day. Participants exchanged contact information, discussed potential collaborations, and explored shared interests. Many attendees noted that they had learned about organisations and initiatives they were previously unaware of, despite working in the same field. Representatives from the Albanian Environmental Coalition connected with local municipal officials, while youth environmental groups found common ground with more established CSOs. Several participants mentioned that the event helped them understand the broader landscape of climate action in Albania and identify potential partners for future initiatives.

Creating Momentum for Future Collaboration

The event successfully raised awareness about the Climate Bridges Network and its potential for Albanian organisations. Several new organisations expressed interest in joining the network, attracted by the opportunity to participate in the shared vison, transnational cooperation and access resources like the Best Practices Toolbox.

Participants appreciated learning about upcoming project activities, including the planned awareness campaigns and the mid-term transnational event.

The event generated genuine enthusiasm for increased collaboration in Albania’s climate community. Participants left with a better understanding of each other’s work and a shared sense of the potential for joint action.

Many attendees expressed appreciation for the opportunity to meet colleagues from different sectors and regions of Albania in an informal, collaborative setting. The event demonstrated the value of creating spaces for climate stakeholders to connect and learn from each other.

Looking Ahead

The Climate Bridges Network will continue to support national and regional collaboration by offering tools, resources, and opportunities for co-creation.

We extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone who participated and contributed their time, energy, and expertise. Together, we are forging new paths for joint climate solutions and creating a stronger, more connected response to the climate challenges of our time.

Want to get involved?

Visit www.climate-bridges.com to learn more about the network, upcoming events, and how your organization can become a part of this growing community of changemakers.