Socialists mark 34th anniversary with fourth term and new parliamentary class

The Socialist Party celebrated its 34^th anniversary Thursday evening with a gathering in the courtyard of its headquarters—this time, with more than one reason to raise a toast. As party leader Edi Rama noted, the celebration comes just weeks after securing a historic fourth term in power.

Why is this important: The latest electoral victory not only solidifies the Socialists’ grip on power, but also places new weight on their shoulders. “We have never shied away from the responsibilities that come with victory—and that, I believe, is the main reason why we never tire of winning,” Rama told supporters, adding, “because we never tire of taking on responsibility and reflecting on how we can do better.”

Context: At the heart of that responsibility lies the European Union accession process. Albania’s EU ambitions, once distant, are now a concrete objective, and Rama says the country is closer than ever to achieving it.

“We have a new team—83 MPs. More than just the number, it’s the composition that matters. A balance of experience and fresh energy, and the best territorial representation we have ever had. This gives our new team the chance to carry the heavy weight it must bear during these years when Parliament must become the backbone of the EU integration process,” Rama declared.

What’s new: Of the 83 MPs elected on May 11, 39 are first-time lawmakers with no previous political experience. To prepare them for the task ahead, the Socialist Party has launched a 30-day Political Academy, running from June 20 to July 20. The program will cover everything from parliamentary procedures and international relations to communication strategies and the party’s 2030 vision.

Rama met with the new MPs a day before the anniversary celebration to emphasize ethics, representation, and their institutional role. He underscored the importance of the upcoming parliamentary term, not just as a continuation of governance, but as a defining moment in Albania’s European journey.

Seasoned party figures will serve as mentors throughout the training. The sessions will also feature sitting MPs who will not return to Parliament in September, offering a transition of knowledge and experience to the party’s next generation.

What’s next: With a fresh parliamentary majority and a clear path forward, the Socialists are positioning themselves not just to govern, but to lead Albania into a new chapter. As the country’s EU bid intensifies, the real test will be turning internal political capital into external progress.