Here are the ten municipalities that could be merged under the new territorial map

Albania’s territorial map is expected to undergo further changes, with the aim of reducing the number of municipalities to no more than 50 ahead of the 2027 local elections.

The initiative is being led by the Socialist Party, which intends to complete the territorial reform even without a consensus with the opposition, if a political agreement between the parties cannot be reached.

An analysis conducted by experts engaged by the government majority has identified 14 municipalities considered most exposed to a possible merger process. The assessment was based on several key indicators, including economic development, financial capacities, administrative functionality, and demographic data.

The potential changes are expected to mainly affect several regions, including Gjirokastër, Berat, Elbasan, Shkodër, and Fier. The territorial structure of Tirana is also still under discussion, with possible further changes being considered.

The report prepared for this reform also foresees special treatment for three municipalities with minority status. Although these units show weak economic and financial indicators, experts argue that they should not be affected by territorial mergers due to their historical and cultural importance, the preservation of national minority identities, and the requests presented during public hearings.

The document also emphasizes that not every local government problem can be solved simply through changes to administrative boundaries.

As examples, it mentions the municipalities of Tropojë, Fushë-Arrëz, and Himarë, where the main challenges are linked more to geographic size, long distances, and citizens’ access to public services rather than the territorial organization itself.

The government majority has given the opposition until July 23 to become part of the discussion and drafting process of the reform. If joint participation is not achieved, the Socialist Party intends to submit the reform for approval in Parliament at the beginning of October, relying on the required majority of 84 votes to pass the changes.

“KORÇA BOOM”