Oct 10, 2024 – The European Union is expected to hold the Second Intergovernmental Conference with Albania on October 15 in Luxembourg, marking a significant step in the country’s journey toward EU membership. This meeting will open discussions on the first group of chapters related to membership negotiations, focusing on vital areas such as the judiciary, fundamental rights, and anti-corruption policies.
Miriam Kosmehl and Nicholas Whyte, noted experts on EU and Western Balkans affairs, view the Brussels decision as a recognition of Albania’s progress in meeting the required criteria. However, they caution that further action is essential, particularly in combating corruption and implementing judicial reforms.
“It’s been ten years since Albania gained candidate status, and this opening is long overdue,” said Dr. Whyte, director at APCO, a Brussels-based consultancy. “Albania has done its homework. I’d like to see this process move much faster.”
Kosmehl, a senior expert at the Bertelsmann Stiftung foundation in Berlin, noted the efforts made by Albanian institutions in preparation for this stage. “Albania mobilized significant resources during the analytical review process, fulfilling obligations to pave the way for negotiations. The European Commission’s recent reports on reforms underscore the progress in areas like justice and public administration.”
Despite these advancements, challenges remain. Kosmehl pointed to recent reports from both the European Commission and the American State Department, which highlight ongoing corruption issues affecting public and business sectors. “While the anti-corruption framework shows positive developments, it lacks sufficient human and financial resources,” she added.
The most pressing issue, according to analysts, is Albania’s implementation of justice reforms. “The EU is cautious and will not proceed with negotiations unless there is a clear commitment to reform,” said Whyte. “Albania has made strides in this area over the last decade, but much remains to be done.”
While Albania moves forward, it does so separately from North Macedonia, whose EU membership talks remain stalled over constitutional issues regarding the Bulgarian minority. Kosmehl expressed concern about this division. “It’s beneficial for Albania, but North Macedonia’s situation is troubling, given that it’s tied to bilateral relations rather than EU criteria.”
The European Council President, Charles Michel, and other leaders have set a target of 2030 for the EU membership of Western Balkan countries. However, experts remain skeptical about the feasibility of this goal.
“Realizing this target depends on the political will of both Albania and North Macedonia,” Kosmehl said. “I would be surprised if Albania becomes a member by 2030. It’s more about how quickly political disputes can be resolved. Montenegro and Serbia share similar prospects, while Bosnia and Kosovo are further behind.”
The recent geopolitical climate, especially following Russia’s aggression in Ukraine, has renewed EU interest in the Western Balkans, viewed as a vital investment in the region’s stability and prosperity.
