Research and policy analysis
Research and policy analysis supporting evidence-based public-interest work concerning Albania.
About ADCN
Diaspora expertise for Albania’s public interest
Albanian Diaspora Civic Network (ADCN) is an independent, non-partisan network supporting evidence-based research, public-interest work and civic engagement concerning Albania.
Who we are Why we exist What we do Our principles How we workWho We Are
An independent civic network connecting expertise
ADCN is an informal, decentralised and independent civic network bringing together members of the Albanian diaspora, professionals, researchers, scientists, academics and other contributors.
ADCN is non-partisan and does not support political parties or candidates. It operates through collaborative working groups and project teams, combining policy analysis, scientific research, public communication, academic cooperation and institutional engagement in support of Albania’s public interest.
The Network does not claim to represent the diaspora as a whole and works to complement, rather than replace, civil society, public-interest institutions and affected communities in Albania.
Why ADCN Exists
Supporting public-interest work through diaspora expertise
Created in response to the current civic situation in Albania, ADCN turns concern, professional experience and diaspora knowledge into structured, evidence-led and sustained action.
ADCN emerges during a period of significant civic mobilisation in Albania, initially driven by efforts to protect Vjosa–Narta and by growing concerns about environmental decision-making, transparency, democratic participation and the rule of law.
This movement continues to demonstrate the strength of civic action in Albania, but also reveals a need for sustained support within and beyond Albania’s borders.
Important public-interest issues often require detailed research, institutional follow-up, international engagement and long-term monitoring, areas in which the diaspora can make a distinct contribution.
Many members of the diaspora have access to professional expertise, universities, laboratories, research institutions, civil-society networks, media and European or international bodies. ADCN was created to organise these resources into coordinated and credible work.
How Our Work Is Supported
A volunteer-led network
ADCN is volunteer-led and operates through contributions of time, knowledge and professional expertise.
At present, the Network has received no funding from political parties, governments or external donors.
Our Activities
What We Do
Research and collaboration
Connecting researchers, professionals and institutions through knowledge exchange.
Civic participation
Supporting democratic engagement, participation and public dialogue.
Public information
Providing accessible information and communication on issues of public interest.
Institutional engagement
Supporting constructive engagement with institutions and organisations.
Expert collaboration
Bringing together expertise from Albania and the diaspora.
Areas of Work
Five connected areas of work
A structured overview of how ADCN turns expertise into sustained public-interest action.
Civic Participation and Democratic Mechanisms
Referenda, petitions, consultations and civic education.
Policy, Evidence and Institutional Analysis
Research on law, governance, EU accession, environmental protection and public institutions.
Scientific Research and Academic Cooperation
Research partnerships, academic exchange and collaboration between experts in Albania and the diaspora.
Public Information and Communications
Explainers, social media, newsletters, media work and transparent reporting.
Network Development and Member Support
Recruitment, onboarding, expert engagement and contributor support.
Our Values
Principles that guide our work
Independence
Maintaining an independent civic identity and contributing through knowledge, expertise and constructive engagement.
Non-Partisanship
Remaining open, inclusive and separate from political party interests.
Evidence-Based Approach
Supporting analysis and communication through research, evidence and expert knowledge.
Transparency
Promoting openness, accountability and clarity in our activities.
Public Interest
Focusing on contributions that support Albania’s long-term democratic and social development.
Accountability
Recognising responsibility through accuracy, openness and willingness to correct mistakes.
Respect for Albania-Based Actors
Working constructively with Albania-based organisations, institutions and contributors while recognising local expertise.
Institutional Accuracy
Maintaining accuracy and care when referring to institutions, organisations and public actors.
Organisational Structure
A decentralised but coordinated civic network
ADCN operates as a decentralised but coordinated network in which every active member has one vote. Members take on responsibilities voluntarily according to their skills, experience, interests and availability.
The Network Forum agrees priorities and major decisions, while the Coordination Circle supports day-to-day coordination, project planning and shared standards without overriding member equality.
Read about our governanceLast updated