The Regional Leadership Academy for Women has officially started in Tirana in cooperation with the European Union. The first day of the program brought together 30 women leaders from across the Western Balkans.

The Deputy Minister of Health and Social Protection, Denada Seferi, met with representatives from the European Institute for Gender Equality (EIGE), DG ENEST of the European Commission, and the EU Delegation in Albania.

Participants discussed progress on gender equality within the EU integration process. They also focused on implementing new legislation to prevent and protect women from violence, including digital violence.

Officials emphasized the need to strengthen institutional capacity and improve the use of gender data to create evidence-based policies. They also reaffirmed their commitment to turning legal and policy frameworks into real and sustainable results for women and girls in Albania.

The academy aims to strengthen leadership skills and promote gender equality through cooperation and the exchange of experiences among participants from the region.

The discussions focused on gender equality, structural inequalities, and the principle of “leaving no one behind.” The program continues with sessions on gender-sensitive leadership and the transition from awareness to action.

The initiative is part of the EU-funded “EU4GE” program, implemented by UNDP Montenegro and UN Women Europe and Central Asia.

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