Inter-Sectoral Rural Development Strategy of Albania, ISRDA 2007-2013.

The Inter-Sectoral Rural Development Strategy of Albania (ISRDSA) is a national strategy laying down priorities for rural development and covering the period 2007-2013. The overall objective is the improvement of socio-economic conditions in rural areas. To this end, measures are set out concerning: a) promotion of the agricultural and agro food sector through farm modernization; b) enhancing sustainable management of natural resources; c) improving the quality of life in rural areas; d) developing rural development management programmes.
The strategy aims at making agriculture more productive and sustainable. Particular measures are outlined to ensure the preservation of cultural landscape and environmental protection, develop agricultural methods consistent with the protection of the environment, enhance landscape preservation in less favoured areas and reduce the abandonment of such areas. Environmental-friendly agricultural practices will be ensured. The strategy also promotes the use of traditional agricultural practices and maintenance of genetic potential in protected areas.
The strategy aims at eradicating rural poverty. To this end it establishes specific measures concerning rural employment and prevention of emigration from rural zones. Special measures are laid down for strenghtening capacities and knowledge of farmers.
With a view to enabling more inclusive and efficient agricultural systems, the strategy establishes measures concerning extension and research, continued training for small farmers including farm budgeting, as well as the provision of market information for small and medium scale farmers. The rural development programme will provide support to the Agro-Industry, Veterinary and Plant Protection Service to reach European Union food safety standards and to promote the export of Albanian products. Infrastructure, especially roads, water supply services, irrigation and electricity will be enhanced in poor and remote rural areas. A national system of savings and credit associations, which will provide deposit and lending services to rural farmers will be established.
The implementation and monitoring of the rural development policy will be carried out by the Rural Payment Agency of Albania and the Rural Development Department. This Strategy also establishes a Monitoring Committee which will include the participation of local non governmental organizations, local action groups, national and regional associations within municipalities, associations of businesses and brunch organizations, municipal authorities, representatives of the national, regional and local divisions and services of the Ministry of Agriculture Food and Consumer protection and the Ministry of Environment and Waters.