Why is this important: The projects mark major steps toward integrating Albania into the EU’s digital standards and simplifying public services through technology. Citizens will soon be able to use their smartphones as fully functional digital identity cards, while travelers will benefit from faster, contactless border control.

Why is this important: The draft law aims to ensure transparency and traceability in policymaking by legally regulating lobbying, a practice that has long existed in Albania but without oversight. It is designed to align the country with European standards and to combat corruption by requiring full disclosure of lobbying activities and interests.

Why is this important: The OSCE/ODIHR report identified several irregularities and procedural shortcomings but none on a scale that would invalidate the results or indicate systemic manipulation. However, the opposition insists that international observers effectively confirmed all its claims—that the May 11 elections were tainted by irregularities, abuse of state resources, and vote-buying. Berisha’s statement suggests that, much like after previous elections, he plans to use the report as a pretext for escalating political confrontation and launching protests. Analysts interpret this as an attempt to shift attention away from his party’s heavy electoral defeat and deflect responsibility for the loss.

Why is this important: The Mountain Package was designed to boost agricultural and agrotourism investments in Albania’s mountain regions. For decades, thousands of former property owners have been unable to reclaim ownership due to complex restitution processes dating back to the communist expropriations. The law sought to address this 35-year paradox by allowing investments on inherited lands based on the testimony of neighboring landowners. If no ownership claims exist, municipalities are authorized to facilitate the cadastral registration process, unlocking development potential in these areas.

Why is this important: The report provides an authoritative international benchmark for the integrity of Albania’s elections. While acknowledging the professional administration of the process, the report underlines deep structural inequalities, political pressure, and misuse of administrative resources — recurring issues in Albania’s electoral landscape.