Why is this important: Rama’s remarks reflect growing unease among some European leaders about the militarization of EU policy in response to global tensions. Speaking on a panel titled “Is Humanity Going in the Right Direction?”, he criticized what he called a “deeply wrong approach” by the European Union.

Why is this important: Veliaj is challenging both the Council of Ministers’ decision to dismiss him—issued in late September upon proposal by the Tirana Municipal Council—and the presidential decree setting the date for partial elections in Tirana. The mayor argues his dismissal was unconstitutional since his absence from office for over three months was due to his pretrial detention, an “objective reason” that, he claims, cannot justify removal from office. Just a week after the dismissal decree, Veliaj filed a second appeal, arguing that the president should have waited for the Constitutional Court’s ruling before calling new elections.

Why is this important: Under Dumani’s leadership, SPAK has launched and pursued high-profile investigations involving senior politicians and figures from organized crime, making his report one of the most closely watched sessions of the year. The hearing also marked the first time Dumani and opposition leader Sali Berisha, currently indicted for corruption, appeared in the same parliamentary hall. Berisha has accused Dumani of leading what he calls “a political justice campaign” and frequently labels him “the head of organized crime.”

Why is this important: Kurti’s comments came a day after his third-term proposal failed in parliament, receiving only 56 votes in favor, five short of the required majority. He suggested that Kosovo could head to elections in both winter and spring, given that the presidential election is due in April 2026. Yet, observers say this warning underscores a pattern of political brinkmanship that has characterized Kurti’s leadership since his rise to power.

Why is this important: This would mark the formal completion of the chapter-opening stage in Albania’s EU integration talks, putting the country among the frontrunners in the Western Balkans enlargement process. The cluster on agriculture and food safety is considered one of the most technically demanding, requiring alignment with complex EU standards on production, inspection, and consumer protection.

Why is this important: The new tariff means that charging a 60 kWh battery — which previously cost around 840 ALL — will now cost 1,320 ALL, and up to 1,518 ALL during peak hours. This represents an increase of 57% to 81%, a jump that could affect both private EV owners and commercial operators.

Why is this important: The failed vote deepens Kosovo’s political crisis and brings the country closer to snap elections, likely to be held before the end of the year. The result reflects the deep political divisions within the Assembly and the growing isolation of Kurti and his Vetëvendosje party following months of strained relations with Western allies.

Why is this important: The projects mark major steps toward integrating Albania into the EU’s digital standards and simplifying public services through technology. Citizens will soon be able to use their smartphones as fully functional digital identity cards, while travelers will benefit from faster, contactless border control.

Why is this important: The draft law aims to ensure transparency and traceability in policymaking by legally regulating lobbying, a practice that has long existed in Albania but without oversight. It is designed to align the country with European standards and to combat corruption by requiring full disclosure of lobbying activities and interests.

Why is this important: The OSCE/ODIHR report identified several irregularities and procedural shortcomings but none on a scale that would invalidate the results or indicate systemic manipulation. However, the opposition insists that international observers effectively confirmed all its claims—that the May 11 elections were tainted by irregularities, abuse of state resources, and vote-buying. Berisha’s statement suggests that, much like after previous elections, he plans to use the report as a pretext for escalating political confrontation and launching protests. Analysts interpret this as an attempt to shift attention away from his party’s heavy electoral defeat and deflect responsibility for the loss.