LOCAL AUTONOMY AND CONTROL BY CENTRAL GOVERNMENT IN THE REPUBLIC OF ALBANIA

Abstract

What is meant by local autonomy? Which is the constitutional framework on local autonomy? Which is the interpretation of the 
Constitutional Court concerning the concept of local autonomy? Which is the importance of local autonomy? Which is the adjustment of 
administrative structures and means with the mission of local units? Which are the conditions of exercising responsibilities at local level? 
These and other issues will be addressed in this paper. National and international (mainly European) regulation on the concept of local 
autonomy is an issue that has direct impact on local development. Without the concept of local autonomy the organization of a liable and 
accountable local organization towards public is senseless. On the other hand, the exercise of local autonomy does not mean lack of 
control and influence from the central government. The principle of checks and balance of powers, not only horizontally but also vertically, 
is a very important constitutional principle. It is often difficult to determine if the combination of powers between central and local 
government leads to the infringement of the autonomy of the latter. The legal regulation in Albania is a good illustration to understand the 
gradual development of local government in a country which has spent a long time of transition.