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EP votes on Albania report: Justice faces pressures and threats
2026-05-05 17:15:39 / POLITIKË
The European Parliament's Foreign Policy Committee adopted the annual report on Albania, which describes the country as a country that has made progress in EU accession talks and stresses that the implementation of the adopted reforms is now essential. The report calls for further strengthening of the independence and efficiency of the justice system, as well as for sustainable results in the fight against high-level corruption and organised crime.
The report was adopted with 58 votes in favour, 7 against and 7 abstentions. In their recommendations, MEPs in the Foreign Affairs Committee welcome Albania's extraordinary commitment to EU integration and the rapid progress it has made in recent years, calling on the authorities to ensure that the adopted legislation is fully implemented.
Despite the progress achieved, the report says, Albania still faces several challenges, such as overcoming internal political polarization and improving political culture, strengthening the rule of law and consolidating anti-corruption reforms. Noting Albania's ambition to conclude accession negotiations by the end of 2027, the report warns that the quality of the country's reforms will determine the timeline for accession.
“Albania is one of the frontrunners for EU membership, and this is reflected in the report. Albania’s goal of concluding accession negotiations by the end of 2027 is not just a wish that can become a reality, but a realistic prospect. This year’s report puts social issues at the centre of attention. It is essential not to focus only on parameters such as the rule of law and the economy when it comes to the accession process. We need to ensure that a well-functioning social system is in place, with strong trade unions and labour laws that put workers’ rights at the forefront. Only in this way can we ensure that Albania is truly ready to be part of the European Union”, said rapporteur Andreas Schieder.
While appreciating the ongoing implementation of the judicial reform process, MEPs note that the judiciary continues to face political pressure and threats, which risk undermining judicial independence. Furthermore, despite progress in the fight against corruption, it remains a serious concern, say MEPs.
The text stresses that Albania needs to further consolidate its track record of investigations, prosecutions and final convictions, particularly in cases of high-level corruption. It also stresses the importance of effectively combating organised crime, including money laundering and drug trafficking networks. The report calls for further efforts to protect freedom of expression and media pluralism, as well as for progress in public administration reform to ensure merit-based recruitment and the depoliticisation of the civil service.
While welcoming Albania's commitment to implementing the EU's growth plan for the Western Balkans, the report highlights persistent structural weaknesses, such as the challenging business environment. It also stresses the key importance of genuine social dialogue in delivering the benefits of enlargement to all segments of the population.
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