October 30, 2024 – Albania’s journey toward EU membership continues but is marked by persistent challenges, the European Commission outlined in its latest annual report. While the country maintains a high level of ambition, the report indicates that many of Brussels’ recommended reforms have been implemented only in part, with some remaining unaddressed altogether.
Earlier this month, Albania opened its first official membership talks with the EU, focused on the ‘Fundamentals’ cluster. This initial phase includes key governance areas such as judicial independence, fundamental rights, and public procurement. The report statea that while the Albanian government has remained committed to the integration process, certain legislative and policy decisions are raising questions about alignment with EU standards.
Democratic Concerns and Polarisation
One of the report’s focal points is the state of Albania’s parliamentary democracy. The European Commission notes that the parliament’s ability to scrutinise the government remains limited, with heightened polarisation between ruling and opposition factions. According to the report, ongoing disputes over alleged restrictions on opposition rights have further intensified these divisions, casting a shadow over Albania’s democratic progress.
The Commission emphasised the need for more balanced political dialogue, indicating that this internal discord could hinder Albania’s capacity to push through the reforms essential to joining the EU.
Judicial Reform and Persistent Political Pressures
The EU’s appraisal of Albania’s judicial reforms reveals both accomplishments and concerns. While strides have been made, particularly in establishing the High Judicial Council and High Prosecutorial Council, the Commission warns of continued political interference in judicial processes. Appointments within these bodies, which are expected to adhere to merit-based standards, are reportedly vulnerable to political influence, raising alarm bells in Brussels.
The report highlights that judicial integrity is central to EU membership, calling for Albania to ensure the full independence of its judicial institutions.
Mixed Results in Anti-Corruption Efforts
Albania’s efforts to curb corruption have shown mixed results, according to the report. Although the country has achieved a degree of progress, especially through its Special Anti-Corruption and Organised Crime Structure (SPAK), challenges remain. SPAK has been lauded for prosecuting complex cases, including those involving high-ranking officials, but the report points to corruption as a continuing and pervasive issue.
Brussels also noted that preventative measures against corruption appear to be yielding limited results, suggesting that Albania needs to bolster its regulatory framework to build a more transparent governance model.
Organised Crime and Law Enforcement Independence
The EU’s report calls for Albania to further its fight against organised crime, commending SPAK’s efforts but stressing that independence across law enforcement agencies must be safeguarded. This independence is seen as crucial in securing lasting progress and credibility within the EU’s institutional framework.
Human Rights and Freedom of Expression Lagging
In a concerning trend, the report flags deficiencies in two areas fundamental to EU values: human rights and freedom of expression. Albania has reportedly failed to fully implement the recommendations the Commission issued a year ago, raising concerns about the country’s commitment to these principles. Without tangible progress in these areas, Albania’s EU aspirations may face further obstacles, the Commission warned.
Path Forward
Albania’s EU accession process may now hinge on accelerating reform efforts and bridging political divides. While Albania has shown a degree of preparedness, particularly in opening dialogue with the EU, the report suggests that deeper reforms are critical if the nation is to continue its membership bid.
As EU officials press for greater transparency and independence across Albania’s political and legal institutions, the report offers a clear message: while ambition and progress are evident, tangible and consistent reform remains the ticket to Europe.
