Over the past years, Albania has made continuous efforts to comply with international labour standards, at least at the legislative and policy level. However, prima facie evidence suggests that labour rights’ breaches remain problematic in practice and they tend to reach worrying levels in selected sectors of the economy and among categories of vulnerable and precarious workers.

In the framework of the project “Promoting labour standards in Albania” supported by Olof Palme International Center in Albania through the funds of the Swedish Government, IDM during 2016 has undertaken a research project with the aim of providing an assessment of the country compliance with labour standards, and drawing attention to related policy gaps to be used as reference for policymaking and further research alike. The research was focused on the implementation of labour standards in three selected sectors of the economy: mining and quarrying, construction and textile, clothing and footwear (TCF).

On 16 December 2016, the Discussion Roundtable “Enforcement of labour standards in Albania through the lenses of social partners” was held in Rogner Hotel Tirana. It aimed to present the major findings of the study and offer a contribution to the policy debate regarding employment and decent work in Albania. This event gathered in a discussion and networking forum representatives of social partners, representatives of the government, civil society actors, donor community and media.

On 26, 27 and 31 January 2016 three regional workshops were organized in Durres, Shkoder and Bulqiza. The regional workshops included the participation of local social partners, representatives of the municipalities and prefectures, and local media. The discussion during the workshops focused on the presentation of research findings, awareness on labour rights and on the role and necessity for a more coordinated and constructive involvement of social partners in the promotion and enforcement of labour legislation.