This Report aims to give an overview of the key issues concerning the fiscal environment for non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in Albania, and provide suggestions on how these issues could be solved. Each issue is organized by: – Describing the current situation in Albania with regard to the issue; – Providing examples of what are the European standards and best practices with regard to the issue outlined; – Providing possible solutions to the issue. This Report commissioned by the Open Society Foundation for Albania (OSFA) is based on a review of legislation, a study visit held in the period 8-11 November and meetings with different stakeholders. Luben Panov and Nilda Bullain from the European Center for Not-for-Profit Law (ECNL) prepared the report. The European Center for Not-for-Profit Law (ECNL) is a public benefit organization registered in Hungary, which aims to promote the strengthening of a supportive legal environment for civil society in Europe by developing expertise and building capacity on legal issues affecting non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and public participation. To accomplish its goal, ECNL convenes key stakeholders, facilitates cross-sectoral and cross-border dialogue, and provides professional assistance on legal issues affecting civil society. ECNL‟s methodology of work emphasizes participation, transparency and local ownership. The core activities of ECNL support the analysis, drafting and implementation of civil society legislation, empower local partners to carry on legal reform and advocacy activities, make available resources, information, and cutting-edge research, and promote the sharing of comparative expertise. ECNL, with its affiliate, the International Center for Not-for-Profit Law (ICNL) has assisted the development and reform of the legal and policy frameworks affecting NGOs in over 15 countries of Central and Eastern Europe, including the new EU member states.

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