Albania, Montenegro & North Macedonia Unite to Combat Informality, Strengthen Fair Cross-Border Labor Migration

In a landmark regional initiative, ASDO, with support from Germany’s GIZ, has successfully brought together Albania, Montenegro, and North Macedonia in a joint effort to combat informal labor and enhance regular migration pathways. Experts, labor inspectors, and government officials convened in Tirana on July 1 2025 to sign a joint agreement aimed at improving working conditions, transparency, and mobility in the Western Balkans.

Ref.: ReportTV – Gazeta Tema – Lexo.al – Java News

Context & Significance:

Albania has one of the highest rates of informal employment in the region—nearly 28 % of GDP is derived from undeclared labor. Informality poses significant economic and social challenges, including instability, reduced tax revenues, and worker exploitation. This initiative creates a shared foundation for cross-border inspections and institutional cooperation.

Key Quotes:

“Only through a unified regional approach can we effectively protect migrant workers’ rights and fight informal employment,” said Eljo Muçaj, Head of Albania’s Labor Inspectorate.

Ref.: Shqiptarja.com – Vizion Plus

“This is not just a forum—it’s a concrete step toward sustainable cooperation that goes beyond protocols,” remarked Ada Ilia, Executive Director of ASDO.

Ref.: Euronews – Gazeta Tema

Highlights of the Agreement:

• Establishment of cross-border coordination points.
• Joint labor inspection teams operating at key migration routes.
• Training and awareness campaigns promoting legal migration and fair work.

Broader Impact:

Aligned with Western Balkan EU integration goals, this initiative reinforces ASDO’s mission to promote decent labor standards and legitimate migration. It also serves as a model of regional collaboration in tackling shared socio-economic challenges .

Call to Action:

ASDO invites stakeholders to support and expand this initiative through funding, expertise, or partnership.