How far is Albania from EU membership? EC publishes report: Highlighted challenges in democracy and the rule of law

2025-11-04 12:52:03Aktualitet SHKRUAR NGA REDAKSIA VOX
How far is Albania from EU membership? EC publishes report: Highlighted
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The European Commission has published its latest report on Albania's progress towards EU membership, assessing that the country has maintained high political commitment and has opened negotiations on five out of six chapters. However, the document highlights that a number of key challenges continue to hinder the pace of reforms.

According to the report, the May 2025 parliamentary elections were competitive and professionally administered, but were accompanied by inequalities in the electoral landscape, misuse of public resources, and deep political polarization. The Commission emphasizes the need for comprehensive electoral reform and increased parliamentary oversight of the government.

In the area of ​​the rule of law, the EU appreciates the progress of judicial reform, but warns that political pressure on judicial institutions remains a concern. The High Judicial and Prosecutorial Councils continue to function with limited capacity, while the system lacks sufficient judges and prosecutors.

The report also highlights the fight against corruption, with SPAK having significantly increased its performance in prosecuting high-level cases. However, corruption is still considered widespread in many public sectors, while asset declaration and control require greater transparency and efficiency.

In the economic field, the Commission notes that the Albanian economy has maintained growth, inflation has stabilised and public debt has fallen. However, challenges such as tax evasion, weak governance of state-owned enterprises and low productivity continue to hamper competitiveness.

Environment, climate and waste management remain among the areas with the lowest progress, where the EU requires the adoption of new laws, strengthening inspections and accelerating infrastructure projects according to European standards.

Regarding foreign policy, Albania is highly regarded for its 100% compliance with EU positions and sanctions, being considered a reliable partner in the region.

The European Commission reiterates that Albania has made important steps forward, but stresses the need to accelerate reforms in democracy, justice, public administration and the environment in order for the country to advance towards the opening and closing of negotiation chapters. 


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