The OMB. History of a Spatial Development Project between Albania and Italy

POLIS University International School of Architecture and Urban Development Policies was founded in 2006, after the previous liberalization of the educational sector promoted by the Albanian Government. The mission of POLIS has always been focused on providing knowledge, technology, and leadership for people, encouraging development and innovation, through the engagement of several worldwide young academics (among which many Italians) perfectly inserted in the dynamic academic framework. In regard to this, the foundation of the OMB (Observatory of the Mediterranean Basin) - a “Joint Center of Excellence” of UNECE, United Nation Economic Commission for Europe and POLIS University - has guaranteed a wider interest towards a three-dimensional geographical that could address issues related to i) Albania; ii) Western Balkans; iii) The countries of the region that are wetted by the Mediterranean Sea. A specific contribution that OMB gives to Albania and Italy, – within the framework of scientific research and the International PhD Program, a joint program organized by POLIS University Tirana and DA / Ferrara University Italy – is the organization of the “annual 4-week workshop” and ” annual research project” focused on the national and regional spatial development agenda of Albania as a contribution to the preparation of the country’s integration into the EU through territorial planning instruments. In this contribution, we aim to highlight the findings and future challenges of this cross-border initiative joining together two academic realities in the Mediterranean Area.