The Albanian opposition acknowledges the opening of EU negotiation chapters but insists that the move by Brussels was not due to Albania’s achievements. Key opposition figures claim that the country, under its current leadership, has failed to meet the required criteria for European integration due to poor governance and lack of reforms.

Why is this important: The EU integration process is a national priority, and its success hinges on political unity. EU officials have repeatedly stressed the need for cooperation between Albania’s ruling and opposition parties to progress through the negotiation chapters. Despite unanimous support for European membership, actual political actions, not just rhetoric, will determine Albania’s ability to advance towards EU accession.

Context: Opposition leaders argue that the recent progress made in Luxembourg, during the Second Intergovernmental Conference, should have happened sooner. They reject the notion that Greece, which delayed the process due to the arrest of Greek minority leader Fredi Beleri, is to blame. Instead, they point the finger at Prime Minister Edi Rama, accusing him of mishandling the situation and delaying Albania’s European path. Greece had demanded Beleri’s release as a condition for Albania’s EU negotiations and blocked the process for months, but opposition parties see this as a minor factor compared to the government’s broader governance issues.

Opposition statements: Despite their disagreements and disunity, opposition figures are united in their criticism of the Prime Minister and implicitly of the EU for rewarding a government who in their view does not deserve it.

• Sali Berisha:
  “Albania does not meet any criteria, particularly regarding free and fair elections. It is the only country in Europe where opposition leaders are persecuted, and it stands as Europe’s first and only narco-state.”
• Jorida Tabaku:
  “We cannot celebrate in 2024. Unfortunately, the government has engaged in an unfair fight, ignoring the opposition’s role in the EU process, which is both hypocritical and damaging to national interests.”
• Enkelejd Alibeaj:
  “Politics must take responsibility for this delay. How can we claim to have a European parliament when it is incomplete and fails to engage in meaningful dialogue?”
• Lulzim Basha:
  “The opening of negotiations is good news for Albania, but it’s absurd to thank Putin for this progress. The delays were caused by Edi Rama’s destructive policies in opposition and his protection of corrupt and criminal allies.”