The Albanian Investment Corporation (AIC) has launched competitions for two significant public infrastructure projects. Ten prestigious architecture studios are presenting their ideas for four major developments to an international jury today. The projects will focus on modernizing Albania’s public administration by creating contemporary office spaces and service facilities for government institutions.

Why is this significant

This initiative represents a shift in Albania’s management of public assets and will serve to revolutionize how public institutions operate by constructing new, purpose-built facilities that can accommodate the needs of a growing and modernizing public sector through partnerships with private businesses. The aim is to replace these outdated premises with modern, functional buildings that better align with Albania’s “2030 Vision.”

Context 

The architectural competition features 10 finalists, divided into two groups of five. Among the participants are renowned international architecture studios such as Selgascano, founded by José Selgas, and Christian Kerez, a designer known for his innovative approach to architecture. Each group will present their proposals for four major projects, all aimed at developing large-scale government complexes. The proposals will be judged by an international panel of experts, focusing on design innovation, functionality, and how well the plans align with the government’s objectives for public property management.

What is the scope

The four projects under consideration involve the construction of new government complexes. These include a large government facility that will accommodate multiple public institutions and additional buildings designed to house other agencies in need of modernized facilities. The new infrastructure will address the inadequacies of current government buildings, many of which are rented and do not meet the demands of a modern public sector. The aim is to create a higher standard for public sector workspaces in Albania, in line with the country’s “2030 Vision.”

Role of AIC

The Albanian Investment Corporation (AIC), established by law a few years ago, is responsible for overseeing both the competition and the broader management of public properties. In this effort, the AIC has partnered with Italy’s Demanio Agency, which manages 44,000 public properties across Italy and has extensive experience in public property management. The goal is to adopt successful models from Italy and other countries, where the state retains ownership of public lands while generating income through development partnerships with private investors.

How it works

Under the scheme, the Albanian government offers public lands to developers through competitive processes like the current architectural competition. Both local and international investors are invited to submit their proposals. Importantly, the government remains the owner of the land and benefits from the new infrastructure, which will include buildings used for public administration. This approach ensures that the state can generate long-term financial benefits from its public assets, which can be reinvested into further development projects.