Inclusion That Works: Skills, Jobs, Dignity

The EU for Labour Market Inclusion project is proving that inclusion delivers real, measurable results.

January 20, 2026

Inclusion That Works: Skills, Jobs, Dignity — Amelia, 26, now serves customers independently, prepares simple coffees, and navigates her workspace with confidence.

UNDP Albania

Their stories stay with us. They speak out, they inspire — and they challenge us to do more. People with disabilities are not asking for sympathy. They bring skills, commitment and value. And at the —core of UNDP’s work lies a simple truth: development only works when it puts people first.

Through EU4LMI, funded by the European Union and implemented by UNDP Albania in partnership with the Swedish Public Employment Service and the Albanian Disability Rights Foundation, young people with disabilities in Albania are stepping confidently into the world of work. This is not charity; it is smart, future oriented development.

The project directly supports Albania’s EU accession priorities by expanding employment, strengthening skills, and building a more inclusive labour market—cornerstones of European integration.

Since launch, 1,039 vulnerable jobseekers have enrolled in Active Labour Market Programmes. Five hundred, including people with disabilities and those receiving intensive counselling and short-cycle upskilling—completed job-relevant training. Already, 130 people have secured sustainable employment in the public or private sector. These results show what works: tailored, personalized support that leads to real jobs, not just temporary participation.

EU4LMI works closely with the National Agency of Employment and Skills, State Social Services, municipalities, and 12 civil society organizations across 19 municipalities, ensuring that support reaches people where they live.

As UNDP Programme Specialist Eno Ngjela explains: “The focus is on people most often left behind: those with limited education, low confidence, and little access to formal employment. The response is just as clear: long-term empowerment through personalized counselling, job coaching, skills training, social support, job matching, and direct links to employers.”

Behind every statistic is a personal story. Here are four that show why inclusion works.

At 26, Amelia joined hospitality training through EU4LMI grantee HAP Network, determined to build practical skills. Living with Down syndrome, she faced challenges with coordination and sequencing tasks—but persistence made the difference. Today, she serves customers independently, prepares simple coffees, and moves confidently through her workspace. Amelia is no longer preparing for work. She is fully part of it.

Elton, 34, entered the programme with one clear goal: to be a reliable team member. With patient, tailored guidance, he mastered core hospitality tasks and soon completed full drink orders on his own. Now training to become an assistant barista, his journey shows how trust, structure, and time turn effort into meaningful contribution.

At 21, Fabjan initially struggled with noise and multitasking. Through gradual, hands-on learning, he built focus and confidence. Within months, he was serving full orders independently and engaging comfortably with customers. With the right support, his strengths came through.

Inclusion also depends on skilled professionals. Through EU4LMI, 205 case management professionals strengthened their skills in integrated case management.

Fabia, a psychology student and newly trained job coach, began the programme unsure of herself. She emerged confident, capable, and ready to guide young people with disabilities into employment—part of the lasting, systemic change the project is creating.

As Project Manager Edlira Papavangjeli puts it: “Inclusion depends on skilled professionals. This is a critical part of the project.”

Impact Beyond Individuals

EU4LMI’s impact goes beyond individual success stories, helping build an ecosystem where inclusion can last:

From March–November 2025, 223 jobseekers with disabilities (48% men, 52% women) enrolled in supported employment and skills development programmes.
215 people (70% women) across 12 municipalities increased their awareness of active living, inclusive employment, and the legal framework protecting the rights of persons with disabilities.
124 people, including 33 assistive teachers, strengthened their ability to navigate labour market and skills development programmes.
62 business representatives engaged through the Active Living Campaign, increasing employer readiness for inclusive hiring.

Together, these efforts move jobseekers, professionals, educators, and employers in the same direction—toward a fairer, more inclusive labour market.

The Bigger Picture

People with disabilities bring talent, dedication, and value to the world of work.

Europe’s support to Albania reflects a clear understanding: inclusive labour markets are essential for EU integration. This is how Europe is built—not only through policies and frameworks, but through people taking their rightful place in society.

As Edlira Papavangjeli sums it up: “EU4LMI shows that when we invest in skills, opportunity, and dignity, everyone benefits. Inclusion that works is inclusion that lasts.”