This survey on the human rights situation in Albania and North Macedonia is part of a broader effort to strengthen democratic governance, civic participation, and human rights mainstreaming in the Western Balkans. Both countries, as EU candidate states, are navigating complex processes of decentralisation and multi-level governance while aspiring to align their institutions with European standards under Chapter 23 (Judiciary and Fundamental Rights) and Chapter 24 (Justice, Freedom and Security) of the EU acquis. The Human Rights Cities approach, highlights that human rights only acquire full meaning when they protect people where they live their daily lives. Experiences from cities such as Malmö, Graz, and Utrecht show how municipalities can embed rights in their governance systems, involve civil society in decision-making, and co-create inclusive solutions that strengthen trust and democracy.