European Parliament backs 2023–2024 Albania Report, applauds judicial reforms but warns on political polarization
The European Parliament has adopted its 2023–2024 resolution on Albania with an overwhelming majority of 502 votes in favor out of 686 members present. The report, drafted by Austrian MEP Andreas Schieder and approved by the Committee on Foreign Affairs, assesses Albania’s progress in consolidating the rule of law and aligning with EU accession standards.
Why is this important: The resolution praises the strengthening of judicial independence and the ongoing fight against corruption and organized crime. But it also raises concerns over persistent political polarization and confrontational rhetoric, calling for more inclusive and constructive political dialogue in Albania.
Context: The 17-page report points to structural issues within two key justice bodies—the High Judicial Council (KLGj) and the High Council of Prosecutors (KLP)—noting they lack clear internal regulations, especially regarding conflicts of interest among members.
“The High Judicial Council lacks the internal rules necessary to perform its functions effectively, while those of the High Council of Prosecutors require revision,” the report states. “Neither body has adopted internal rules for managing conflicts of interest, leaving potential cases unresolved.”
Two institutions receive particularly positive mentions: the Special Anti-Corruption Structure (SPAK) and the High Justice Inspectorate, which were also highlighted during the parliamentary debate.
EU Enlargement Commissioner Marta Kos emphasized the importance of preserving SPAK’s independence:
“It is vital that Albania continues to show concrete progress in key areas. In this context, the independence of SPAK must be fully preserved. SPAK is currently the most trusted institution in the country. This must be protected and strengthened.”
Kos also noted that the report comes at a pivotal moment, as EU accession negotiations with Albania have accelerated:
“This report comes at a decisive moment. Accession talks are moving at an unprecedented pace, with significant progress already made and more expected soon. Albania has demonstrated a serious commitment to the enlargement process, and the EU is responding with a merit-based approach.”
Domestic reaction: President Bajram Begaj welcomed the resolution as a reaffirmation of the European Parliament’s support for Albania’s EU path. Speaker of Parliament Elisa Spiropali described the document as “an important political and institutional recognition of Albania’s progress toward EU membership.”
What’s next: Although the resolution is not legally binding, it reinforces the EU’s expectations ahead of Albania’s next negotiation steps. Key areas for further progress include strengthening judicial oversight, ensuring transparency, and reducing political friction, which remains a persistent obstacle to Albania’s democratic consolidation.
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