Draft report on Albania, European Parliament raises concern about pressures on SPAK and MEDIA!

Interventions and pressure on the judiciary are seen as a concern in the draft report on Albania, submitted to the European Parliament's Foreign Affairs Committee.

The material, which is expected to be approved in the coming weeks, also draws attention to the violation of SPAK's institutional independence.

The rapporteur for Albania in the European Parliament, Andreas Schieder, has submitted to the Foreign Affairs Committee the draft report that is expected to be passed for approval, where the main attention seems to be paid to the chapter on the rule of law.

Political interference and pressure on the judiciary are highlighted as a concern.

The European Parliament welcomes the progress Albania has made in implementing justice reforms, including the vetting process, which has been completed in the first instance; however, it expresses concern about the continued political interference and pressure on the judicial system.

The draft report presented to the European Parliament's Foreign Affairs Committee evaluates the work of SPAK, while drawing attention to the violation of the institutional independence of the Special Prosecution Office.

The European Parliament underlines the key work of the Special Structure Against Corruption and Organized Crime (SPAK) in Albania in building a track record of investigation, prosecution and conviction in high-level corruption cases; draws attention to the infringement of the work of independent institutions such as SPAK.

Beyond justice issues, the low level of transparency of authorities at all levels is also viewed with concern.

The European Parliament recalls the responsibility of national and local authorities to improve transparency, accountability and inclusiveness by conducting meaningful and regular public consultations with stakeholders; notes with concern that the implementation of the legal framework for public consultations by the Albanian Parliament remains largely formal.

The media situation is also viewed with concern and the need for any revision of the media law to be in line with the recommendations of the Venice Commission is underlined.

The draft report is expected to be approved by MEPs in the coming weeks.

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