Albania is one of the fastest urbanizing countries in Europe, grappling with a set of unique challenges. The pattern of geographical development has led to specific challenges, including a lack of affordable housing in high-growth areas and widespread deprivations in declining areas. Albania has recently implemented a comprehensive reform package in the housing, planning, regional development and land management sectors to align with internationally recognised standards.

Albania has made significant progress in different developmental areas. It aspires to achieve a more balanced and polycentric territorial development and to address the housing needs of its most vulnerable population groups.

This Country Profile of Albania provides recommendations supporting the country in addressing its challenges. The recommendations underscore the urgent need for increased political visibility to prioritise housing policy as a central component in making cities and communities sustainable and liveable.It also calls for re-balancing the country's regional development and regenerating cities through sustainable and long-term investments.