The ACT NOW 2025 Conference in Tirana brought together experts, innovators, and institutions to explore the future of artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and digital transformation. Among the key themes was the urgent need to strengthen Albania’s digital infrastructure and trust systems. Helvetas Albania was honored to support the conference and contribute to the panel on cybersecurity, highlighting the importance of secure digital ecosystems for inclusive economic growth.

Cybersecurity is not only a technical issue—it is a gateway to economic opportunity. For over a decade, the Youth Employment Project of the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC), implemented by Helvetas and Partners Albania, has worked to introduce and facilitate international standards such as ISO 27701 for Albanian businesses. These standards help local enterprises meet global data protection requirements, enabling them to access high-value markets and build trust with international clients.

This work is part of a broader effort to address youth unemployment in Albania, which stood at 22% in 2023 for individuals aged 15–29. Through targeted interventions in sectors like ICT, tourism, and agribusiness, RisiAlbania has helped over 30,000 young people find employment, generated more than €10 million in net additional income, and supported over 50,000 youth through career guidance services. These results demonstrate the potential of market-driven, standards-based approaches to create sustainable jobs.

Cybersecurity is increasingly central to this mission. As digital services expand, businesses that adopt robust data protection practices are better positioned to grow and hire. By supporting the adoption of standards like ISO 27701, the project not only enhances business competitiveness but also creates new employment pathways for young Albanians—especially women and youth from rural areas.

Helvetas will continue its role as a knowledge broker and connector, working with public and private actors to ensure that Albania’s digital transformation is secure, inclusive, and youth-centered. We invite you to explore our business cases and learn more at PUBLICATIONS.