Albania proposes cutting municipalities to as few as 61 to boost local development

Albanian politician Dritan Shano argues that the current system of local government is focused on administration rather than development. He notes that the country once had 373 municipalities and suggests the number could be reduced to 61, with intermediate options of 91 or 45, to ensure that municipalities act as engines of economic growth.

The reform aims to eliminate excess political positions, curb patronage networks, and align local government with the European view that municipalities should compete for funds, attract investors, and create conditions for regional prosperity. Resistance stems from those who benefit from the existing structure, which ties local power to the distribution of permits and aid.