Albanian diaspora registration opens for May elections

Albanian citizens living abroad can now register to vote in the upcoming May 11 parliamentary elections. The registration process, which began today, will remain open until March 4 and is being conducted through the Electronic Registration Platform (Platforma Elektronike e Regjistrimit or PER).

Why is this important: This marks the first time Albanians living abroad will be able to participate in the national elections remotely. 

How it works: 

The PER platform is designed with three main components:

• Voter Portal: Allows individuals to create accounts and submit applications for inclusion in the voter list.
• Application Review Module: Enables the Central Election Commission (CEC) to process applications transparently and equitably.
• Real-Time Statistics Panel: Provides up-to-date data on applications and their status, accessible to political parties and organizations for monitoring purposes.

To register, citizens must upload at least one of the following documents to prove their residence abroad:

• Property ownership certificate or equivalent document.
• Residency proof issued by the host country’s authorities.
• Rental or use agreement for housing.
• Utility bills (water, electricity, gas, or digital broadcasting services).
• Internet or fixed telephone service agreements.
• Bank documents showing residency address.
• Driver’s license displaying the residential address.
• Documentation from health institutions or other authorized entities verifying residence.
• Other official documents from the host country confirming residence.

Each address can register up to six individuals unless justified exceptions are provided with legal documentation.

CEC’s role: The CEC reviews applications and informs applicants if further documentation is needed. Applicants can resubmit their applications as many times as necessary if their initial submission is rejected.

Current progress: CEC Chair Ilirjan Celibashi reported that 405 applications had been submitted as of today, though none have yet been approved. The review process is set to commence shortly.

Additional challenges: Celibashi addressed the need for amendments to the Electoral Code to manage costs related to postal services and registration deadlines for electoral subjects. He also acknowledged concerns from the Democratic Party (PD) regarding electronic voting in Tirana, emphasizing the commission’s responsibility to implement at least a pilot program.

Next steps: The registration process will continue until March 4, providing an opportunity for Albanian citizens abroad to participate in the elections.