'EU4Nature' supports Albania in protecting biodiversity and advancing its preparation for the 'EU Natura 2000' network by improving the management of its protected areas, particularly those of high importance for biodiversity. The project strengthens the capacities of relevant institutions, promotes nature-based solutions, and supports long-term conservation through performance monitoring, inclusive participation, and targeted awareness-raising.

The action is structured around eight outputs that contribute to the overall objective of improving the effectiveness of protected area management. It includes the revision and development of management plans for protected areas, as well as plans related to forest use and non-timber forest products; the establishment of performance monitoring systems; support for the implementation of conservation measures; assistance to civil society organisations working on nature-based solutions and measures against environmental crime; and raising awareness about Natura 2000 and biodiversity conservation.

• Strengthen institutional capacities for effective Protected Area management in line with EU acquis and Natura 2000 requirements.
• Improve Protected Area planning, monitoring, and management effectiveness through updated plans and performance systems.
• Support conservation and sustainable resource management measures in priority biodiversity areas.
• Enhance the role of civil society and public participation in biodiversity conservation and environmental protection.

• Stronger institutional setup and improved transposition of the EU Nature Protection acquis.
• Revised and updated legal framework, including secondary legislation, enforcement mechanisms, and a clarified role for the Special Fund for Protected Areas.
• Updated and newly developed management plans for protected areas, priority habitats and species, and forest and non-timber forest resources.
• Operational performance monitoring systems established and functional across selected protected areas.
• Priority conservation and restoration activities implemented in selected protected areas in cooperation with NAPA, regional authorities, and local government.
• Civil society organisations actively contributing to PA management through a Small Grant Programme supporting innovative pilot actions, nature-based solutions, and anti-environmental crime initiatives.