What the Directorate Does
The Directorate of Strategic Programming (DSP), within SASPAC’s broader mandate, leads, coordinates and harmonises national strategic planning processes. Through DSP, Albania’s public policies are built on a clear long-term vision, oriented towards sustainable development, and aligned with the EU accession process and international commitments.
National strategic planning
Drafting and monitoring of the National Strategy for Development and European Integration (NSDI) as the government’s key orientating document. DSP leads the drafting process and ensures the strategy’s coherence with long-term national objectives.
Linking strategy to the state budget
Key government reforms are linked to budget orientation through the Priority Policy Document (PPD), prepared annually within the budgetary calendar. This mechanism ensures fiscal sustainability of strategic reforms over a three-year medium-term horizon.
Harmonising foreign assistance
Coordinates international funds and investments with national priorities through the National Single Projects Pipeline (NSPP) and the EU’s Western Balkans Investment Framework (WBIF), ensuring a direct contribution to social and economic development.
Evidence-based policy-making
Analyses and studies produced by the Research Sector orient public policies based on empirical data and international best practices, enabling a sustainable and measurable policy-making process aligned with long-term development goals.
Structure of the Directorate of Strategic Programming
The Directorate is organised into three functional sectors, each with clearly defined competencies and specific processes.
Sector 01
Sector for the National Strategy for Development and European Integration
Supports the drafting and monitoring of the NSDI, coordinates the IPMGs, administers the IPSIS and SIMNH databases, and prepares materials for the SPC Technical Secretariat.
NSDI
IPMG
IPSIS
SIMNH
SPC
IPMG
IPSIS
SIMNH
SPC
Sector 02
Sector for Support to Sectoral and Cross-Sectoral Strategies
Ensures the harmonisation of sectoral policies with the NSDI. Provides methodological and technical assistance to responsible institutions and monitors implementation through the IPMGs.
Sectoral strategies
PPD
Methodological assistance
PPD
Methodological assistance
Sector 03
Research Sector
Provides the analytical and methodological base for strategic policies. Orients public policies based on empirical evidence and international best practices.
Strategic analysis
Sectoral studies
Empirical evidence
Benchmarking
Sectoral studies
Empirical evidence
Benchmarking
The Strategic Programming Process
Strategic planning under DSP follows a structured process, from approval of the strategic framework through to monitoring and reporting.
1
Approval of the NSDI by the Strategic Planning Committee
The National Strategy for Development and European Integration 2022–2030 is the government’s main orientating document. It is drafted by SASPAC/DSP, consulted with all ministries and institutions, and approved by the Strategic Planning Committee before submission to the Council of Ministers.
→ Learn more about the NSDI
Approval of the NSDI by the Strategic Planning Committee
The National Strategy for Development and European Integration 2022–2030 is the government’s main orientating document. It is drafted by SASPAC/DSP, consulted with all ministries and institutions, and approved by the Strategic Planning Committee before submission to the Council of Ministers.
→ Learn more about the NSDI
2
Annual Drafting and Update of the Priority Policy Document and the NSPP
The Priority Policy Document (PPD) is prepared annually within the budgetary calendar and links government priorities to the state budget. Simultaneously, DSP drafts and updates the National Single Projects Pipeline (NSPP) — the basis for coordinating international assistance and applications to the WBIF.
→ View the PPD and NSPP
Annual Drafting and Update of the Priority Policy Document and the NSPP
The Priority Policy Document (PPD) is prepared annually within the budgetary calendar and links government priorities to the state budget. Simultaneously, DSP drafts and updates the National Single Projects Pipeline (NSPP) — the basis for coordinating international assistance and applications to the WBIF.
→ View the PPD and NSPP
3
Inter-institutional Coordination through the Integrated Policy Management Groups
The five Integrated Policy Management Groups (IPMGs) ensure horizontal harmonisation of reforms across ministries. DSP holds the central technical secretariat and reports to the SPC every six months on IPMG functioning (Prime Minister’s Order No. 90/2023).
Inter-institutional Coordination through the Integrated Policy Management Groups
The five Integrated Policy Management Groups (IPMGs) ensure horizontal harmonisation of reforms across ministries. DSP holds the central technical secretariat and reports to the SPC every six months on IPMG functioning (Prime Minister’s Order No. 90/2023).
4
Cross-sectoral Alignment — Sustainable Development Goals
DSP coordinates the integration of the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into the national strategic framework and the implementation of the 2030 Agenda. The Directorate serves as the technical secretariat of the Inter-Ministerial Committee for SDGs (Order No. 28/2023).
Cross-sectoral Alignment — Sustainable Development Goals
DSP coordinates the integration of the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) into the national strategic framework and the implementation of the 2030 Agenda. The Directorate serves as the technical secretariat of the Inter-Ministerial Committee for SDGs (Order No. 28/2023).
Sustainable Development Goals and the 2030 Agenda
Albania was among the first countries to unanimously adopt a parliamentary resolution on the 2030 Agenda. DSP coordinates the mainstreaming of all 17 SDGs into the NSDI and sectoral strategies, avoiding overlaps and ensuring coherent planning aligned with national priorities.
SDG Legal Framework
Prime Minister’s Order No. 28 of 13.03.2023 establishes the Inter-Ministerial Committee for SDGs, chaired by the Deputy Prime Minister, with DSP as technical secretariat. Order No. 76/2023 establishes the inter-institutional working group for the preparation of the SDG Roadmap.
5
Implementation and Monitoring
The IPSIS and SIMNH systems monitor strategic planning and foreign assistance. Annual and six-monthly progress reports on NSDI implementation are published according to the legal cycle. REGFIS (AKSHI) ensures transparency of European Union funds.
Implementation and Monitoring
The IPSIS and SIMNH systems monitor strategic planning and foreign assistance. Annual and six-monthly progress reports on NSDI implementation are published according to the legal cycle. REGFIS (AKSHI) ensures transparency of European Union funds.
List of active strategies
The complete matrix of all active national sectoral and cross-sectoral strategies, with Official Gazette links, approval dates and upcoming monitoring periods.
Calendar of strategies to be approved (PPAP 2026)
List of strategies and action plans scheduled for drafting and approval during 2026, by quarter and responsible institution.
6
Council of Ministers Approval and Linkage to the European Integration Process
Strategic documents approved by the SPC are submitted to the Council of Ministers for adoption by Decision (CMD). DSP ensures alignment with the EU integration agenda, the National Plan for European Integration (NPEI) and the requirements of the relevant acquis chapters.
Council of Ministers Approval and Linkage to the European Integration Process
Strategic documents approved by the SPC are submitted to the Council of Ministers for adoption by Decision (CMD). DSP ensures alignment with the EU integration agenda, the National Plan for European Integration (NPEI) and the requirements of the relevant acquis chapters.
NSDI 2030 Progress Report — Year 2024
Annual assessment of the implementation of the National Strategy for Development and European Integration. The report analyses progress across the three pillars — Democracy and Governance, Sustainable Economic Development, and Social Cohesion — covering 65+ strategic indicators with baseline values and 2030 targets.
Structural Guide for Drafting Sectoral Strategies (IPSIS Standards)
The structural framework for drafting sectoral and cross-sectoral strategies in line with the IPSIS system standards. An official methodological reference document for all line ministries responsible for national strategies.
Indicator Passport and Monitoring Matrix
Methodological instruments for measuring progress: the Indicator Passport (detailing impact, outcome and measure indicators) and the Monitoring Matrix with baseline values and medium- and long-term targets.
Strategic Planning Committee
The Strategic Planning Committee (SPC) is the principal high-level inter-institutional body, chaired by the Prime Minister, that approves national strategic documents and ensures the coherence of the government’s political direction. Established by Prime Minister’s Order No. 4 of 11.01.2022, the SPC meets as a rule once a month. DSP serves as the technical secretariat of the SPC.
Review and approval of strategic documents
The NSDI, the Priority Policy Document and sectoral and cross-sectoral strategies are approved only after review by the SPC. This process ensures policy coherence with the long-term national vision and the link with the relevant budgetary programmes.
National Single Projects Pipeline
The SPC approves and updates the National Single Projects Pipeline (NSPP), which forms the basis for coordinating foreign assistance and applications to the EU’s Western Balkans Investment Framework. The list ensures that international investments directly contribute to national priorities.
New projects and applications to the Western Balkans Investment Framework
The SPC reviews and approves new projects of national importance and proposals for financing from the EU Western Balkans Investment Framework (WBIF), ensuring their alignment with the priorities of the National Strategy.
Sustainable development, European integration and international donor support
Cross-sectoral matters relating to the implementation of the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals, commitments under the EU accession process, and coordination of international donor financial support with the priorities of the National Strategy.
Approved agendas of SPC meetings 2025–2026
17 January 2025
PPD 2026-2028 · NSPP · WBIF/RGF List
1. Presentation of project proposals for inclusion in the National Single Projects Pipeline (NSPP)
2. Presentation of the Indicative List of Projects for WBIF under the Reform and Growth Facility (RGF)
3. Presentation of the Draft Priority Policy Document 2026-2028 and updated NSPP
4. Report on the deregulation process for business services
26 February 2025
Building Renovation Strategy · MTBP Ceilings
1. Vision and objectives of the Long-Term Strategy for Building Stock Renovation
2. Project proposal for the Expansion of Wastewater Treatment Plants on the Albanian Coast (Lezhë and Sarandë)
3. Projects proposed for WBIF Call 10B investment grant
4. Policy Document on Occupational Safety and Health and Action Plan 2025-2030
5. Preparatory Expenditure Ceilings for the Medium-Term Budget Programme 2026-2028
30 April 2025
3 National strategies · NSPP projects
1. National Strategy on Control of Small Arms, Light Weapons, Ammunition and Explosives 2025-2030
2. National Strategy against Human Trafficking 2026-2030
3. Policy Document on Ageing and Action Plan 2025-2030
4. National Cybersecurity Strategy 2025-2030
5. NSPP approval as “matured”: Base Map of Albania project and Integrated Regional Tourism project
9 June 2025
5 infrastructure and energy projects · WBIF
1. Project proposal: Rrogozhinë–Vlorë railway line
2. Project proposal: Sewerage system in Cërravë Administrative Unit
3. Project proposal: Rehabilitation of water and sewerage systems in Shkodër
4. Project proposal: Electricity Distribution Investment Programme
5. Project proposal: Digitalisation of the electricity distribution system
6. NSPP approval as “matured”: AutoMoto Park project
7. Projects for WBIF Call 11 investment grant and Call 31 technical assistance grant
28 October 2025
Road Safety 2026-2030 · RGF · WBIF
1. National Road Safety Strategy 2026-2030 and Road Safety Action Plan 2026-2028
2. Reassessment of “matured” projects: Smart City Camera System and National History Museum restoration
3. European Commission assessment of the first official report under the Reform and Growth Facility
4. Review of the Indicative List of Priority Projects under RGF-WBIF
26 November 2025
Private sector programme EU · NSPP
1. National Programme for supporting the private sector in integrating into the EU single market 2025-2030
2. NSPP approval as “matured”: Western Balkans Trade and Transport Facilitation 2.0
2 February 2026
PPD 2027-2029 · Diaspora Strategy · WBIF
1. NSPP project proposal: QSUT Reform Programme Phase 3, Oncology Hospital
2. National Diaspora Strategy 2026-2030
3. Indicative List of Priority Projects under RGF-WBIF and implementation challenges
4. Draft Priority Policy Document 2027-2029 and updated National Single Projects Pipeline (NSPP)
11 March 2026
MTBP 2027-2029 · 4 National strategies · WBIF
1. Preparatory Ceilings for the Medium-Term Budget Programme 2027-2029
2. National Policy for Small and Medium Enterprises 2026-2030
3. National Strategy for Industrial Policies 2026-2030
4. National Strategy for Culture 2026-2030
5. National Strategy for Education 2027-2031
6. Projects for WBIF Call 12 investment grant and Call 34 technical assistance grant
10 April 2026
NSPP · AI Strategy 2026-2030 · Youth Justice
1. NSPP proposal and “matured” approval: Expo Albania
2. NSPP “matured” approval: Western Balkans Trade and Transport Facilitation 2.0
3. NSPP “matured” approval: Sewerage rehabilitation in Durrës (Porto Romano, Spitallë, Shkozet)
4. NSPP “matured” approval: Sewerage system, Cërravë Administrative Unit, Pogradec
5. National Artificial Intelligence Strategy 2026-2030
6. Cross-Sectoral Strategy on Juvenile Justice 2027-2030
Key Strategic Documents
All approved and in-force documents, available for download.
Priority Policy Document — Series
Priority Policy Document 2026–2028 (Revised)
CMD No. 435, dated 31.07.2025 · SASPAC
Priority Policy Document 2024–2026
CMD No. 447, dated 26.07.2023 · SASPAC · Official Gazette
Key Strategic Documents
National Strategy for Development and European Integration (NSDI 2022–2030)
CMD No. 88, dated 22.02.2023 · The Albanian government’s principal orientating document for 2022–2030.
Roadmap for the Sustainable Development Goals
Albania’s national implementation plan for the UN 2030 Agenda, integrated with the NSDI.
NSDI 2030 Progress Report — Year 2024
Annual assessment of progress across 3 pillars and 65+ strategic indicators. Financed under IPA III — NEAR/TIA/2023/EA-RP/0136.
Matrix of Active Sectoral and Cross-Sectoral Strategies
Complete list of all active national strategies with Official Gazette links, approval dates and upcoming monitoring periods.
List of Strategies and Action Plans Scheduled for Approval (PPAP 2026)
Calendar of strategies scheduled for drafting and approval during 2026, by quarter and responsible institution.
Structural Guide for Drafting Sectoral/Cross-Sectoral Strategies (IPSIS)
Official structural framework and methodology for strategy drafting according to IPSIS system standards. Mandatory reference for all ministries.
Legal and Institutional Framework
The mandate and functioning of the Directorate are grounded in the following legal and normative acts.
Order No. 4 of 11.01.2022 — Creation and Functioning of the Strategic Planning Committee
The founding act of the SPC. Defines the structure, duties, composition and the role of DSP as the Committee’s technical secretariat. The SPC is chaired by the Prime Minister.
Order No. 90 of 01.08.2023 — Integrated Sectoral/Cross-Sectoral Management Mechanism (IPMG)
Regulates the 5 Integrated Policy Management Groups and SASPAC’s role as central secretariat. Establishes the inter-institutional coordination mechanism and the link with IPSIS.
Order No. 28 of 13.03.2023 — Inter-Ministerial Committee for the Achievement of SDGs
Establishes the Inter-Ministerial Committee for SDGs chaired by the Deputy Prime Minister, with DSP as secretariat. Regulates the government–civil society dialogue for the implementation of the 2030 Agenda.
Order No. 76 of 27.06.2023 — Inter-Institutional Working Group for the SDG Roadmap
Establishes the inter-institutional working group with DSP as technical secretariat for the preparation of the SDG Roadmap 2030. The group coordinates work with 11 ministries and international partners.
Order No. 157 of 30.12.2021 — Drafting of the NSDI 2021–2030
Designates SASPAC as the principal coordinator for drafting the NSDI and IPSIS as the primary supporting instrument. Forms the basis of inter-institutional cooperation throughout the drafting process.
CMD No. 88 of 22.02.2023 — Approval of the NSDI 2022–2030
The official act of approval of the National Strategy by the Council of Ministers. Charges all ministries and central institutions with implementation.
CMD No. 447 of 26.07.2023 — Priority Policy Document
The legal basis of the annual PPD process. Prepared by SASPAC in cooperation with the Ministry of Finance and integrated into the Integrated Planning System.
Useful Links
Albanian institutions (8)
Office of the Prime Minister
Political authority over SASPAC; approves CMDs for strategic documents and the Strategic Planning Committee
Ministry of Finance
Key partner for linking strategies to the state budget; drafts the methodological guidelines for strategic planning and administers the Medium-Term Budget Framework
Ministry of Economy and Innovation
Economic development policies, business environment and innovation; implements the reforms of Priority Area I of the National Reform Agenda 2024–2027
Ministry for Europe and Foreign Affairs
Coordinates the EU integration process and accession negotiations; works with DSP to align national strategies with EU acquis requirements
National Agency for Information Society (AKSHI)
Develops and administers the REGFIS system for monitoring the Reform Agenda and the IPSIS system for foreign assistance; principal technical partner of SASPAC
Institute of Statistics (INSTAT)
Principal supplier of statistical data for monitoring the NSDI and the indicators of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals
Albanian School of Public Administration (ASPA)
Trains civil servants in ministries and institutions on strategic planning methodology and the drafting of policy documents
Centre for Official Publications — Official Gazette
Official source for CMDs, laws and normative acts forming the legal basis of strategic planning and SASPAC’s mandate
European Union and integration instruments (5)
European Commission — DG NEAR, Albania
Directorate-General for Neighbourhood and Enlargement Negotiations; assesses reform reports and approves disbursement of Reform and Growth Facility funds
EU Delegation to Albania
SASPAC’s principal operational partner; coordinates IPA III and Reform and Growth Facility implementation; continuous technical dialogue with DSP
Reform and Growth Facility (RGF)
EU financial instrument of €6 billion for the Western Balkans 2024–2027; Albania’s portfolio: €922.1 million; SASPAC is the national coordinator
Western Balkans Investment Framework (WBIF)
Principal instrument for financing strategic infrastructure projects; SASPAC administers the National Single Projects Pipeline (NSPP) for WBIF applications
Growth Plan for the Western Balkans
The EU’s new strategic framework for the region; provides conditional financial support tied to the reforms of the National Reform Agenda 2024–2027
International organisations and financial institutions (7)
World Bank — Albania
Co-finances strategic investments through IPA and WBIF; provides budget support and policy analysis; cooperates with SASPAC on the SIMNH database
European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD)
Finances infrastructure and sectoral projects; important policy dialogue partner on energy, transport and the business environment
European Investment Bank (EIB)
Finances major infrastructure projects; active WBIF participant; strategic partner for transport, energy and environment
United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) — Albania
Key partner in the implementation of the SDGs and in supporting national strategic planning capacity
OECD/SIGMA — Support for Improvement in Governance and Management
Monitors and supports public administration reforms; publishes annual assessments of strategic planning quality and SASPAC’s institutional capacity
German Development Cooperation (GIZ) — Albania
Provides technical assistance for governance and strategic planning reforms; partner in the implementation of projects financed by the EU and the German Government
United States Agency for International Development (USAID) — Albania
Important partner in governance, rule of law and economic development reforms; coordinates programmes with NSDI priorities and the Reform Agenda
Independent monitoring and regional platforms (4)
CDI Reform Tracker — Albania (Cooperation and Development Institute)
Independent monitoring of National Reform Agenda implementation; measurable indicators for each reform step by six-month period
Western Balkans Reform and Growth Monitor
Regional platform monitoring reforms and EU integration progress across all six Western Balkans countries
UN SDG Platform — Albania
National indicators and Albania’s Voluntary National Reviews (VNR) on the implementation of the 17 Goals; key reference for DSP monitoring
SIGMA — Public Administration in Albania 2024 (Latest report)
OECD/SIGMA assessment of public administration reform quality, including strategic planning and SASPAC’s institutional capacity