Dedicated to rigorous academic research and comparative policy analysis.
Who We Are
The Center for Comparative and International Studies (CCIS) is an independent, non-governmental research organization based in Tirana, Albania. Founded with the mission to bridge the gap between academic research and practical policy-making, we specialize in conducting high-quality comparative studies in the fields of governance, socio-economic development, and international relations.
Through multidisciplinary research, policy recommendations, and institutional collaborations, CCIS strives to foster democratic development, European integration, and evidence-based decision-making in Albania and the wider Western Balkan region.
Bridging international expertise with regional development to drive impactful change.
Our Background & Role
The Center for Comparative and International Studies (CCIS) is a dynamic, leading non-profit organization that actively promote international cooperation by leveraging global expertise to frame critical issues, inform evidence-based decision-making, and guide sustainable change. Our impact is driven by strategic partnerships with governments, international foundations, businesses, civic groups, non-profit organizations, and academic institutions.
Backed by a highly qualified network of experts and consultants, CCIS operates as a premier Think Tank dedicated to supporting regional structures and capacity building. Moving forward, we remain committed to strengthening our international network, expanding local institutional capacities, ensuring financial sustainability, and dynamically managing change to address the evolving challenges of our region.
Generating evidence-based analysis and driving regional impact through institutional collaborations.
Research, Policy Work & Projects
CCIS conducts both fundamental and policy-oriented research across a comprehensive institutional portfolio. We translate rigorous analysis into actionable change by regularly producing policy papers, detailed research reports, high-level conferences, capacity-building trainings, and engaging public events that bridge the gap between academia and society.
As a trusted regional partner, CCIS actively participates in national and international projects. Our work is supported by and implemented in collaboration with prestigious institutions and networks, including the European Commission, the Mediterranean Citizens’ Assembly, MEDEA, CERAI, the European Movement, the Foundation Charles Léopold Mayer pour le Progrès de l'Homme, and the Hanns Seidel Foundation, among others.
CCIS Strategic Documents
CCIS Development Strategy 2022–2027
Strategic framework outlining CCIS priorities, objectives, and development pathways for the period 2022–2027.
Read moreCCIS Child Protection Strategy 2022–2027
Policy document focused on safeguarding children’s rights, protection mechanisms, and institutional responsibilities.
Read moreCCIS Gender Policy
A comprehensive policy promoting gender equality, inclusion, and equal opportunities across CCIS programs and activities.
Read moreOur Partners & Collaborations
QSKN works closely with leading public and private sector organizations to drive research, innovation, and sustainable institutional growth across national and international networks.
Committed to institutional transparency, rigorous asset management, and strict donor compliance.
Financial Capacity & Governance
The Center for Comparative and International Studies (CCIS) possesses extensive experience in project management, backed by robust institutional capacities designed to successfully execute and administer complex research initiatives. To guarantee absolute transparency, CCIS utilizes a dedicated, separate accounting system for each project, ensuring independent and precise financial reporting tailored to the specific requirements of each donor.
All financial operations are strictly guided by the CCIS Financial Management Handbook, a comprehensive framework established to ensure that every transaction complies with internal regulations, donor mandates, and the national legislation governing non-profit organizations. Managed by a dedicated Finance Officer, our financial processes include constant project monitoring to guarantee that all initiatives are executed on schedule and strictly within the allocated budget.
📋 Legal Registration
Legal Entity: Center for Comparative and International Studies (Qendra për Studime të Krahasuara dhe Ndërkombëtare - QSKN)
Court Registration: Registered at the Tirana District Court on 02.10.2006
Registration Number: No. 327
General Organizational Capability
Governance & Organizational Structure
QSKN operates with a solid institutional structure, including an active Board of Directors, an Executive Director, Project Managers, researchers, and a network of associated experts and scholars.
Research & Project Management Capacity
With strong experience in research and project management, QSKN has developed robust institutional capacities to design, implement, and manage projects, supported by sound financial and administrative procedures.
Quality Assurance & Monitoring
QSKN applies Quality Assurance mechanisms throughout the entire project lifecycle, monitoring progress and performance to ensure effectiveness, efficiency, and sustainability of all activities.
Logistics & Working Environment
The organization provides suitable working spaces and infrastructure, ensuring an effective and collaborative environment for research teams and project implementation.
Key Features of QSKN Research
QSKN research is characterized by its strong empirical base, critical analysis, policy focus, and free and open dissemination of findings. The organization leverages a consolidated network of partners from the policy-making sector, business community, academia, and civil society, ensuring rigorous, independent, and high-quality research.
- Strong empirical base with collection of primary data and critical analysis
- Policy-focused research covering current and future policy challenges
- Free and open dissemination of research
- Consolidated network of partners across sectors
- Small core fellowship of researchers adhering to Research Integrity Statement
Annual Reports
Explore our yearly comprehensive reviews documenting CCIS research outcomes, institutional activities, and financial audits.