Why is this important: Since the start of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, Albania has been among the most vocal and active supporters of Kyiv, including during its term as a non-permanent member of the UN Security Council in 2022. But alongside his firm stance against aggression, Rama has consistently warned that Europe must not lose sight of peace. Instead of focusing solely on military investments, he has repeatedly advocated for directing resources into education, knowledge, and future-building.

Why is this important: In a cynical effort to portray its leaders as different from those of the traditional parties, NShB placed them in the open candidate list. However, as this case is revealing NShB had filled its closed candidate list in Tirana with twelve so-called “placeholder” names expected to forgo their mandates, clearing the way for the party leader Lapaj to take the seat as the leader and most-voted figure. According to the coalition’s plan, these names—including Kordhoni—signed preemptive resignations after the May 11 elections. However, the process now faces legal and logistical uncertainty as at least one of those candidates appears to be reconsidering his decision, underscoring the fragility of such political maneuvers and the lack of legal safeguards around candidate withdrawals.

Why is this important: According to the Democratic Party’s own statute, any party leader who loses elections must step down. But Berisha—who spent years reclaiming control of the party from former leader Lulzim Basha—has no intention of doing so. Rejecting the legitimacy of the elections and launching protests now appear to be his only strategy for justifying his continued leadership in the eyes of party members.

Why is this important: The incident has led to many questions being asked over how the project could have progressed so far without intervention. The cabins were visible, installed on concrete foundations, in the heart of a protected area—raising doubts about the vigilance and resolve of local authorities and the territorial inspectorate. Critics say the fact that it took national-level intervention to remove the structures points to deep dysfunction in how local governance enforces environmental and construction laws. But the scandal has also exposed divisions between Albania’s executive and judicial institutions. Prime Minister Rama has accused Shkodër’s Prosecution Office—and specifically prosecutor Elsa Gjeli—of enabling a crime against the public interest by refusing to open an investigation, despite a formal complaint from local police. “How is it possible,” Rama asked, “that after the police and inspectorate documented the violation and referred the case, the prosecution chose to bury it?”

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.