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Bank of Albania and European Investment Bank join forces for sustainable development

Published on January 23, 2025
The Bank of Albania (BoA) has announced a new partnership with the European Investment Bank (EIB) to foster sustainable development and green finance initiatives in...

Why is this important: The partnership marks a significant step for Albania’s efforts to integrate green finance into its economic framework.


London court approves extradition of British citizen linked to Albanian businessman’s murder

Published on January 23, 2025
A London extradition court has granted Albania’s request to extradite Steven Hunt, a British national accused of aiding in the assassination of Albanian businessman Ardian...

Why is this important: Steven Hunt is part of a larger group accused of orchestrating Nikulaj’s murder in April 2023. The case has drawn international attention due to the cross-border nature of the crime and the alleged involvement of a structured criminal network. The ruling underscores the cooperation between Albanian and British authorities in pursuing justice across borders.


Serbia bans two Albanian civil society representatives amid controversy

Published on January 23, 2025
Serbia has banned 14 civil society representatives from a number of countries, including two from Albania, citing “national security risks.” The two banned Albanians are...

Why is this important: The incident has raised concerns about Serbia’s approach to civil society engagement and regional cooperation. The ban comes at a time of heightened tensions within Serbia, marked by ongoing student-led anti-government protests. Critics argue that targeting NGO representatives reflects political paranoia and an unjustified escalation against civil society.


Albanian opposition Democrats demand diaspora Albanians be allowed to vote with foreign ID

Published on January 23, 2025
The Democratic Party in Albania has announced it will condition its support for proposed electoral code changes, initiated by the Central Election Commission (CEC) and...

Why is this important: The issue of how to implement the voting rights for Albanians abroad has been a recurring point of contention. While the Democrats argue that the changes they propose would enfranchise a significant portion of the diaspora, the Socialists maintain that the CEC system requires voter data to match Albania’s civil registry, which excludes individuals lacking Albanian-issued identification. Democrats claim that this is a deliberate limitation aimed at reducing participation from Albanians living overseas.


Albanian opposition leader appeals to Trump for support in public letter

Published on January 23, 2025
Sali Berisha, the embattled leader of Albania’s Democratic Party, has sent a public letter to Donald Trump, tying his political future to the former U.S....

Why is this important: Berisha is in one of the most challenging phases of his political career, with corruption charges against him, his son-in-law under house arrest, and his party struggling in the polls. His letter to Trump seems to be an effort to mobilize his supporters by presenting his legal and political struggles as part of a larger ideological battle where they now have an ally in President Trump.


The Times highlights Albania as Europe’s best-value luxury destination

Published on January 23, 2025
The Times has spotlighted Albania as an emerging high-end travel destination, offering luxury experiences at a fraction of the cost of its Mediterranean neighbors. The...

Why is this important: Albania, long overshadowed by its glamorous neighbors like Greece and Italy, is carving out its own space in Europe’s luxury travel market. The report emphasizes how Albania’s blend of natural beauty, historical charm, and increasingly refined hospitality is drawing a discerning crowd. The rise of high-end resorts, celebrity visits, and substantial investments in tourism infrastructure — including a new £88 million airport in Vlore — underscores the country’s transformation.


Dashamir Shehi: political solutions can defeat Edi Rama

Published on January 23, 2025
The leader of the Movement for National Development (LZHK), Dashamir Shehi, expressed confidence that Prime Minister Edi Rama can be defeated using political tools. In...

Why is this important: Despite his diminished electoral weight, Dashamir Shehi remains one of the Albanian opposition’s most charismatic figures. Known for his no-nonsense approach, Shehi is a seasoned voice advocating for practical solutions to Albania’s political challenges. His criticism of the Democratic Party’s leadership and its historical missteps underscores the need for unity and coherence within the opposition. Shehi’s straightforward style and pragmatic views resonate with many Albanians who are frustrated by the lack of tangible progress in the political arena.


Silvinjo and staff scout for Albanian players in European clubs

Published on January 23, 2025
The Albanian national football team’s head coach, Silvinjo, has launched a scouting tour across Europe to observe Albanian players active in major leagues and strengthen...

Why is this important: Silvinjo has consistently emphasized communication with his players as a cornerstone of his coaching philosophy. This tour allows him to assess their performance directly, ensuring a well-prepared squad for the national team’s next challenges.


Albania extends tax breaks for luxury resorts until 2026

Published on January 22, 2025
The Albanian Parliament has approved a new legal initiative to extend tax exemptions for 4 and 5 star resorts affiliated with international brands until the...

Why is this important: Tourism has seen unprecedented growth in Albania in recent years, with 12 million visitors in 2024—a staggering figure for a country of just 2.8 million people. While this influx of tourists boosts the economy, the government aims to ensure the sector evolves sustainably. A key priority is positioning Albania as a destination for elite tourism, moving beyond daily visitors and low-cost travelers.


Electoral lists divide power between party leaders and voters in Albania’s upcoming elections

Published on January 22, 2025
In Albania’s upcoming parliamentary elections on May 11, party leaders will play a decisive role in determining the fate of a significant portion of the...

Why is this important: The issue of open versus closed candidate lists has long been a point of contention in Albania’s political discussions. Party leaders from major political forces have historically found common ground when it comes to maintaining their authority over candidate selection.