NDI's local partner, the Institute for Mediation and Democracy (IDM), conducted an Audit of Political Engagement in Albania, an inaugural public opinion study that explores citizens’ engagement in democratic processes as an indicator of the health of a society. The February 2016 study involved interviews across Albania with 1,538 participants over 18 years of age, as well as four focus groups. It examined a range of political engagement indicators grouped in three areas: political knowledge and interest; political participation and action at local and national levels; and efficiency and satisfaction. It also examined participants’ perceptions on Parliament and their elected representatives, as a responsive and accountable Parliament is a foundational pillar of democratic governance.

The research findings serve as a platform for debate about how to enhance citizens’ engagement in politics. Improving their engagement requires both a realistic baseline to understand how citizens are involved in politics, as well as an honest appraisal of what motivates citizens to become engaged and what prevents them from doing so.