Local Gender Equality Action Plan, September 2020-September 2023

The charter consists of 30 articles representing different areas of competence of local and regional authorities. The Mayor of Cërrik, Mr. Andis Salla, signed the charter on April 22nd, 2020, committing to take concrete steps to achieve equality between women and men, girls and boys, regardless of age, disability, ethnicity, place of residence, religious belief, gender identity, and sexual orientation. The Local Gender Equality Action Plan (LGAP) 2020-2023 is a tool for the practical implementation of public commitments undertaken by the Municipality of Cërrik regarding the principles of equality, planning, and implementation of the needs and rights of women and men, young women and young men, as well as girls and boys. The LGAP is a synthesis document that contains a summary of clear, gender-sensitive actions, most of which are included or foreseen in the existing plans of the municipality. The LGAP was prepared in a short period of time through a comprehensive process, involving representatives from the municipality staff, administrative units, local partner and collaborating institutions, the Municipal Council, and women councilors. The document considers all concerns and problems observed by practice, as identified during daily work. The LGAP covers a period of three years, from September 2020 to September 2023. The Municipality of Cërrik has made efforts to take needed steps to achieve equality, despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. The pandemic affected the minimization of meetings, the realization of consultations through the Internet, the reduction of the number of actors, partners, and collaborators, and the uncertainty about available resources and what can be provided in the future. The LGAP includes specific objectives and concrete actions to promote equality between women and men, girls and boys, in various areas such as education, employment, health, and social protection. The document also emphasizes the importance of partnership and inclusion, particularly in emergency situations due to civil emergencies, pandemics, etc. The Municipality of Cërrik has a wide range of responsibilities, and it can play a positive role in promoting equality in practical ways that affect the daily lives of the communities it serves. The implementation and promotion of the right to equality must be at the heart of the concept of local self-government.