Albania’s Council of Ministers has approved the creation of a Project Support Council within the Gambling Supervisory Authority, establishing a structured and transparent system for financing initiatives of public interest. The body, to be chaired by the Deputy Prime Minister, will include representatives from key ministries such as finance, sports, culture, innovation, and social affairs, alongside e-government officials. It will play a central role in setting annual funding priorities, approving procedures, and selecting projects.
The decision introduces detailed rules for governance, including strict conflict-of-interest declarations and confidentiality obligations to ensure impartial decision-making.
Projects will be funded through public calls, with clearly defined application, evaluation, and monitoring procedures, and may receive support for periods ranging from one to three years, provided applicants meet financial and operational criteria.
The move comes as Albania gradually reopens and regulates parts of its gambling sector, including the legalization of online sports betting following a 2018 ban. While authorities aim to curb illegal activity through tighter oversight and licensed operators, most traditional gambling venues remain restricted, signaling a controlled and state-supervised approach to the industry’s revival.
