Civil society in Albania took a major step forward today when children's organisation, Plan International, began transferring its programmes and activities to a local Albanian non-governmental organisation (NGO).

The new organisation, which is still to be named, will over the next two years progressively assume responsibility for lobbying and advocacy as well as a host of child centred activities such as health, education, and children's rights in Albania. Plan will formally support the new organisation during the transition period. The current budget stands at US$ 2.3 million in over 150 communities throughout the country.

Plan's CEO Tom Miller, speaking in Tirana said: "This is a great day for Plan and a great opportunity for Albanian civil society. There is a lot of talk about NGOs creating a culture of dependency and sometimes failing to promote local independence. Well here is your answer, we are now helping to establish a completely stand alone, accountable, and responsible home-grown Albanian organisation governed by some of the country's most prominent citizens."

The new organisation will be a model of good governance and accountability, run by a board of prominent Albanians chosen for their integrity, public service, and dedication to development. The 10 strong board comprising 5 men and 5 women will act as the driving force behind the new child-centred NGO working with children and communities throughout the country.

Civil society in Albania has failed to take off since the end of communism in 1990. Although there are many international organisations - large, home-grown, and locally accountable organisations are far fewer in number. The new children's organisation will be unique in that it will be the only local organisation advocating and working at the highest levels of government in an arena usually reserved for only the largest international organisations.

Prominent lawyer and new board member, Emira Shkurti, said: "Civil society in Albania, like us, is in its infancy, but today is a watershed. NGOs have a worthwhile and necessary role to play in a country's development. We look forward to taking this opportunity to strengthen our country's democracy and improve the lives and rights of thousands of Albanian children.

Plan will continue to provide support and assistance to the new NGO over the next two years at which time the new organisation will assume complete responsibility for all programmes and activities