Why is this important: The upcoming protest has become the latest flashpoint between Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama and Kosovo’s ruling Vetëvendosje movement, led by Albin Kurti. In an unexpected move, Vetëvendosje launched a harsh attack against Rama, accusing him of hypocrisy for supporting the protest despite once backing the creation of the Specialist Chambers — the very court now trying UÇK leaders.

Why is this important: The draft triggered strong opposition for what critics saw as an attempt to introduce alternative  genders into Albanian law — a concept that remains controversial even across many EU countries. Facing backlash, including from religious institutions, the ruling Socialist Party moved swiftly to amend the bill, reaffirming the constitutional definition of gender as man and woman.

Why is this important: The ICG, one of the most respected global conflict-analysis organizations, highlights a sharp cooling of ties between Kosovo and its Western allies — an alarming shift given the historic U.S. and EU role as the country’s strongest political and financial supporters. The report suggests that Kurti’s policies risk isolating Kosovo internationally and undermining the fragile progress made since independence.

Why is this important: The revelation underscores a recurring pattern in Albanian public life, where politicians, judges, and prosecutors seek validation or intervention from international partners rather than resolving institutional disputes domestically. While Albania’s justice reform has long depended on foreign support, Çela’s criticism marks a rare moment in which a top official openly questions the outsized influence of diplomatic actors in the country’s internal judicial affairs.

Why is this important: Kosovo continues to miss out on millions of euros in EU funding due to its ongoing institutional crisis, which prevents it from formalizing the required agreements with the EU. While other countries move forward with economic support and integration projects, Kosovo’s political paralysis means it remains outside one of the region’s most significant financial initiatives.

Why is this important: The impeachment motion marks the most serious institutional clash between the opposition and the presidency in recent years. The Democrats argue that Begaj has “crossed red lines” by overstepping constitutional limits, while the ruling majority has already dismissed the move as a political stunt with no legal grounds.

Why is this important: The proposed amendments, drafted by a group of legal experts and supported by the Albanian government, have been submitted to Parliament for debate. However, the draft has not received support from any of the institutions within the justice system, including the prosecution and judiciary. Çela’s remarks signal growing institutional concern over reforms that could reshape Albania’s criminal justice framework.

Why is this important: The decision comes amid a surge in accidents involving electric scooters. According to official data, 991 accidents were recorded nationwide in 2024, several of them fatal and many causing serious injuries. Minister Koçiu said the suspension will remain in place until a new regulatory manual outlining the rules and safety standards for scooter use is completed.

Why is this important: The EU Growth Plan for the Western Balkans aims to double the region’s GDP within the next decade, marking one of the EU’s most ambitious economic commitments in recent years. At the opening, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen called on European investors to seize the opportunity: “The time to invest in the Western Balkans is now. Returns are promising, and the future of the region lies within our Union.”