European Parliament Approves Report on Albania

The Foreign Affairs Committee has approved the report for Albania today. At the collection of the Foreign Commission, the Eurodeputs stress Albania's broad political consensus and strong public support for EU membership. The report, prepared by Andreas Schieder, has been approved by the Foreign Affairs Committee by 57 votes to 11 against and 6 abstentions.

Urgent deepening of reforms in the country is required in the report, while stressing that political dialogue must be constructive and inclusive. Citing the May 11th elections, the report is said to have been held in a polarised environment, and administrative resources have been used by the ruling party.

While a key point has been put on justice reform in the country, where it becomes aware that political interference remain a major challenge for the country. In the end, Eurodeputs have called for protection of the judiciary's independence.

Urgent Need for Promoting Reforms

While welcoming Albania's goal to complete membership talks by 2027 and the progress already made, the eurodeputs stress the urgent need to intensify reforms. The main priorities include strengthening judicial independence, fighting corruption and organised crime, as well as protecting fundamental rights. Increasing media pluralism and transparency remains essential to building public trust.

Political dialogue, opposition to external intervention

The report notes continued political polarisation marked by confrontational rhetoric and calls for more constructive and inclusive political dialogue. Eurodeputs express serious concern about the malicious foreign influence, especially from sources linked to the Kremlin, threatening Albania's democratic institutions and EU membership ambitions. They call for greater institutional stability against abuses with political financing, media manipulation and cyber threats.

Support Through EU Initiatives

Eurodeputs welcome the New Instrument for Reform and Growth Programme of 922m euros dedicated to the Western Balkans, which will support Albania's Reforms Agenda once conditions are met. The opening of the European Parliament's Agency office in Tirana is seen as a vital step to strengthen ties between the EU, local institutions and civil society partners from throughout the Western Balkans region.

Election Process and Reforms in Justice

The report reflects on the May 2025 parliamentary elections, describing them as competitive but developed in a highly polarised environment, with concerns about the use of administrative resources. Eurodeputs call on Albanian political parties to engage in sweeping electoral reforms in line with O recommendations SBE/ ODIHR and Venice Commission.

Progress made with judicial reforms and investigations into high-level corruption is welcome, though political interference remains a challenge. Eurodeputs call for continued efforts to protect judicial independence and boost accountability.