Only 10% of children under the age of 3 are in public nurseries, and 18 municipalities do not offer this service at all

Albania urgently needs to strengthen Early Childhood Education and Care as a form of support for the development of human capital and participation in the labor market.

In the World Bank’s latest Public Finance Review for Albania, it is emphasized that despite the increase in public spending for this sector, it still remains low compared to international standards. The report notes that Albania is experiencing rising demand for these services despite demographic decline.

“Accelerating efforts to improve the financing of local governance could improve access to and the quality of ECEC services. Access to ECEC services is limited and unequal: only 10 percent of children under the age of three are enrolled in public nurseries, while 18 municipalities do not offer such services at all.

Variations in parental fees and the lack of a clear regulatory framework for private service provision further worsen inequalities in access,” the report states.

According to the World Bank, challenges in institutional coordination between ministries and local government units fragment service delivery, while data gaps hinder effective planning and targeting.

The report notes that although reforms to improve transfer formulas and implement performance-based grants are underway, accelerating efforts to strengthen financial management, budgeting practices, and oversight of service delivery at the local level is essential to achieve higher fiscal efficiency.

Another element highlighted in this document is the need to increase financing efficiency and broaden the role of partnerships with the private sector in this field.

“Addressing these challenges will require both increased public investment and a more strategic approach to allocating resources. Enhancing the efficiency of financing through well-targeted grants, strengthened local financial management systems, and clear regulatory frameworks is essential for maximizing the impact of limited resources.

Expanding partnerships with private providers, promoting employer-supported childcare, and mobilizing international funds can also help close infrastructure gaps,” the document states.

“KORÇA BOOM”