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Albania to ease work visa rules for foreign nationals amid labor shortages

Why is this important: The proposed amendments to the 2021 Law “On Foreigners” would grant the Ministry of Economy the authority to negotiate bilateral labor agreements with other countries. One such agreement is already in the works with the Philippines, with the goal of bringing up to 40,000 skilled workers to Albania. Negotiations have also started with Indonesia.
Return of U.S. justice experts signals continued support for SPAK under Trump administration

Why is this important: With the start of Trump’s second term, figures in Albania’s political opposition—most notably former Prime Minister Sali Berisha—had claimed that the U.S. would pull back support from the reform. Berisha, who has been declared “non grata” by the U.S. State Department for alleged corruption, has repeatedly framed the justice reform as a “Soros project” and argued that a Trump administration would distance itself from it. He has also insisted that his U.S. designation would soon be revoked.
Edi Rama rejects opposition claims of electoral program plagiarism, says opposition platform is a “farce”

Why is this important: Representatives of the Democratic Party have accused the ruling majority of mimicking its economic promises ahead of the May 11 elections. Rama countered that the opposition’s plan to cut taxes while raising wages and pensions is economically unsound. He also reminded DP that the €500 minimum wage pledge was first made a year ago, in compliance with electoral law, which prohibits financial decisions that could benefit incumbents within five months of an election.
DHL secures contract to handle Albania’s diaspora ballots

Why is this important: The total contract value of €9.22 million reflects both the scale and complexity of managing international mail voting. While the CEC invited five postal companies to bid, only DHL submitted an offer, effectively securing the deal by default.
New National Children’s Cultural Center in Tirana: the largest in the Balkans

Why is this important: This ambitious project aims to provide modern facilities for social and cultural activities, focusing on nurturing young talents and promoting arts education for children of all ages.
Sali Berisha unveils Democratic Party environmental plan, calls situation a national emergency

Why is this important: Albania continue to grapple with significant environmental challenges, particularly air pollution and the lack of an effective waste management system. Despite this, environmental concerns generally rank low on the list of voter priorities. The fact that Sali Berisha has suddenly given environmental issues such a prominent place in the Democratic Party platform will potentially pressure other political actors to join the debate on how to confront these persistent challenges.
Palestinian woman’s murder by her father shocks Albania

Why is this important: While Albania faces its own challenges with violence against women and girls, honor killings of this nature are extremely rare. The brutal nature of Rayan Alwan’s murder, along with the suspected involvement of her mother, has shocked and outraged the public, but has also reignited conversations about gender-based violenceand the protection of vulnerable individuals.
Albania sees construction boom with new skyscrapers and power plant approval

Why is this important: The wave of high-rise construction reflects Albania’s ongoing urban transformation, particularly in the capital. The Embassy Tower, will be 47 stories above ground and include seven underground levels, making it one of the tallest buildings in Tirana. Other approved projects include a 34-story tower on the New Boulevard, and the 35-story Barcelona Tower near the former State Security headquarters.
EU Commission backs Italy’s plan to use Gjadër Camp for migrant detention

Why is this important: The ruling marks a significant step in Italy’s migration management strategy. The plan, established through a bilateral agreement with Albania, enables Italy to transfer migrants to Albanian territory for processing. According to the Commission, the arrangement complies with EU standards as long as Italian law is applied in the camp.
Edi Rama unveils Socialist Party electoral platform, promises economic growth and higher wages

Why is this important: Rama’s proposals aim to boost household incomes and stimulate economic growth. By focusing on raising the minimum wage and public sector salaries, he hopes to improve living standards and maintain the economic momentum seen in recent years. The platform also reflects his confidence in securing a fourth mandate, presenting long-term goals for Albania 2030.