Why is this important

Albanian PM Edi Rama and European Economic and Social Committee President Oliver Röpke announced the initiative at a press conference. Rama stressed, “It brings us a lot of new energy that we have been able to create the Joint Advisory Committee, which is not only proof of our commitment but also of our strong belief that the integration process is not just a matter for the government but for all citizens, including civil society. It allows us to show our citizens and stakeholders, not just through our words but through this institution, how important it is that the path to EU membership is one that involves all of civil society, not just a few actors.”

Why is this significant

Berisha has a long-standing record of targeting critical media and journalists, but his latest threats against those investigating his legal troubles are especially alarming. Issuing such menacing statements while under house arrest raises serious concerns about the lack of judicial oversight. These threats not only undermine press freedom but also pose potential risks to the integrity of the legal process, as they could intimidate witnesses and others involved in his case. The authorities’ apparent tolerance of this behavior is troubling and calls into question the enforcement of judicial conditions.