Why is this important: The move marks the first time Berisha has been formally called in relation to the 21 January case. The incident remains one of the most politically sensitive and unresolved tragedies in Albania’s post-communist history, with SPAK now investigating allegations of “murder under qualifying circumstances,” “abuse of office,” and “obstruction of justice.”

Why is this important: While SP candidates won over 60% of the vote in every municipality, overall turnout was just 18.45%, one of the lowest ever recorded in local Albanian elections. The lowest participation was in Vlora (12.54%), while Mat registered the highest with 39.36%. Analysts and officials warn this trend may reflect growing public apathy and dissatisfaction, especially amid a fragmented and weak opposition.

Why is this important: LDK’s win in Prishtina — the political and economic heart of Kosovo — marks a major symbolic and strategic victory for the party, which has struggled to regain momentum in recent years. Rama’s re-election strengthens LDK’s hand ahead of potential early parliamentary elections, which he hinted could come within weeks.

Why is this important: This new digital service simplifies access to some of the country’s most visited cultural sites, reflecting a broader push toward modernizing public services and supporting the tourism sector—especially cultural tourism, which has seen strong growth.

Why is this important: The appeal marks a significant moment in Thaçi’s high-profile war crimes case, now entering its fifth year. The defense claims that Thaçi’s rights have been violated by procedural decisions that may undermine legal consistency and the presumption of innocence.

Why is this important: The draft law submitted by the ruling Socialist Party has become a lightning rod in Albanian politics, igniting intense debate over gender identity, family values, and EU integration. Critics and the opposition, claim it undermines traditional Albanian families by recognizing “multiple gender identities.” Proponents argue the law simply reinforces the constitutional principle of non-discrimination.

Why is this important: The find—more than 111,000 spiders woven into a sprawling, dark mosaic of funnel-shaped webs—marks the first-ever documentation of colony behavior between two common spider species. Scientists say it is likely the largest spider web system ever discovered globally.

Why is this important: The new code, which contains over 950 articles, aims to modernize Albania’s criminal law, but has already sparked concern among top judicial leaders. Critics warn that the draft risks undermining legal clarity and civil liberties and blurring the lines between criminal and procedural law.

Why is this important: This marks one of the largest minimum wage hikes in Albania’s recent history and is central to the government’s promise of improving income standards. The decision also aligns with key campaign pledges from the May 11 election, where the ruling Socialist Party won 83 seats in parliament.

Why is this important: The clear call for action underscores that while Albania is among the frontrunners in the EU enlargement process, unresolved reform priorities could block the provisional closure of negotiation chapters, potentially derailing the 2027 accession goal.