Tirana, December 2024 – Regional Anti-Corruption Initiative (RAI) Secretariat organized a dynamic presentation in Tirana, with a special focus on the latest developments and upcoming activities within the framework of the “SouthEast Europe – Together Against Corruption II” (SEE-TAC II) program. Hosted at the premises of the High Inspectorate of Declaration and Audit of Assets and Conflicts of Interest (HIDAACI) and attended by the Austrian Development Agency Office in Tirana, the event gathered representatives from relevant Albanian institutions, including HIDAACI, the Commissioner for the Right of Information and Data Protection, the Financial Intelligence Unit, the Ministries of Finance and Economy, Culture and Innovation (National Business Centre), and the Bank of Albania.
The presentation provided a comprehensive overview of SEE-TAC II ongoing work in Albania and the Western Balkans, celebrating the successes of previous phases and setting a roadmap for the current phase. A focal point of the discussions was the International Treaty on Exchange of Data for the Verification of Asset Declarations, with an emphasis on its achievements and the concerted efforts toward its signing and ratification in Albania. Additionally, the session delved into important topics such as Corruption Risk Assessment (CRA) and Corruption Proofing of Legislation (CPL) in the environmental and security sectors. Upcoming youth initiatives were also highlighted, aiming to engage and empower the next generation of leaders in the fight against corruption.
RAI Secretariat maximized its visit to Tirana by engaging in productive discussions with the Regional Youth Cooperation Office (RYCO). RYCO reaffirmed its commitment to collaborating on youth activities within the SEE-TAC II framework. RAI representatives also participated in the YPS Academy organized by RYCO, fostering stronger alignment between the two organizations. This collaboration, rooted in the Memorandum of Understanding of these organizations, is set to drive impactful youth-focused anti-corruption initiatives.
Further, a strategic meeting was held with representatives of the Austrian Development Agency (ADA) Office in Albania. The discussions reviewed past achievements, current activities, and future plans, with a particular focus on strengthening efforts in Albania and the region. The ADA office in Tirana reaffirmed its readiness to support these regional efforts.
RAI extends its sincere gratitude to HIDAACI for hosting the event and to all participants for their invaluable contributions. As part of the SEE-TAC II regional engagement strategy, similar presentations will soon be organized across other Western Balkan jurisdictions.
