This project implemented by UN Albania Association aims to strengthen the climate negotiation capacities of Albania and North Macedonia while fostering regional cooperation ahead of COP30. Both countries face institutional and resource constraints that limit their ability to effectively influence international climate negotiations and fully leverage opportunities within the UNFCCC process.

By enhancing technical expertise, improving inter-institutional coordination, and promoting regional alignment, the initiative seeks to support more strategic and impactful participation in global climate diplomacy. The project will provide targeted strategic and technical assistance to the Albanian Ministry of Tourism and Environment to reinforce its COP30 delegation; deliver peer-to-peer training and mentoring for North Macedonian negotiators led by experienced Albanian counterparts; and train a youth delegation from North Macedonia to support institutional teams and advance youth inclusion. It will also facilitate joint coordination meetings before, during, and after COP30 to explore shared positions and regional priorities, support joint participation in high-level COP30 side events in collaboration with OSF WB to enhance visibility and advocacy, and compile and disseminate lessons learned and training materials to ensure continuity and institutional memory.

Expected results include strengthened negotiation skills and institutional capacity in both countries, improved bilateral coordination fostering a regional approach to climate diplomacy, increased international visibility through joint COP30 engagement, the development of a replicable model for Western Balkans coordination in future COPs, and sustained institutional memory supported by empowered young negotiators contributing to long-term climate governance capacity.

Implementation period: October 2025 – January 2026.