In Focus
News in short
Ali Ahmeti urges Kosovars to vote, warns against isolation

Why is this important: Ahmeti’s statement comes amid growing regional tensions. Kosovo’s tensions with the U.S. and EU, as well as internal divisions among Albanian leaders in North Macedonia, have complicated efforts for integration and political cooperation. His remarks are also seen as a subtle criticism of Albin Kurti on the eve of Kosovo’s crucial elections this Sunday. The situation underscores how Kosovo’s upcoming elections carry broader regional and geopolitical implications.
In Focus
1. Online harassment cases surge in Albania, police report

Why is this important: The rapid rise in social media usage has exposed more Albanians to online threats and risks, particularly the youth. However, cyber harassment is no longer limited to specific age groups, prompting authorities to take a more proactive role in raising awareness and improving response mechanisms.
All latest stories
Online harassment cases surge in Albania, police report

Why is this important: The rapid rise in social media usage has exposed more Albanians to online threats and risks, particularly the youth. However, cyber harassment is no longer limited to specific age groups, prompting authorities to take a more proactive role in raising awareness and improving response mechanisms.
Rama open to Afghan refugees staying in Albania following U.S. policy change

Why is this important: Albania was one of the few countries that welcomed Afghan refugees fleeing Kabul after U.S. forces withdrew in 2021. Refugees were temporarily housed in northern Albanian hotels while awaiting resettlement procedures for entry into the United States. With the new U.S. policy blocking further admissions, Albania now faces the prospect of hosting these refugees for a longer term.
Albanian PM rules out additional migration agreements similar to Italy pact

Why is this important: The November 2023 agreement between Albania and Italy, which allows for the construction of an asylum-seeker camp in northern Albania, sparked interest across Europe as a potential solution to managing migration flows. Several EU countries have approached Albania to negotiate similar deals. Rama has categorically rejected these offers, citing Albania’s unique relationship with Italy, which has provided significant support to the country over the past three decades.
Fierce rivalries erupt among new Albanian political parties, undermining reformist image

Why is this important: There have long been calls in Albania for fresh political leadership to challenge the dominance of traditional parties. Many hoped that the May 11 elections would finally introduce serious new forces into the political arena. The weakening of the Democratic Party and the long spell in power by the Socialists has created space for new actors. Polls too indicated substantial support for these new parties, which were seen as a clean break from the old politics. However, critics now question whether voting for these so-called “reformist” parties is worthwhile, given their recent behavior, which is becoming identical to the conduct of the establishment they aim to replace.
Belarusian opposition leader Tsikhanouskaya honored in Tirana

Why is this important: Tsikhanouskaya has been one of the main leaders of the protest and opposition to Belarus’ authoritarian regime. Her recognition in Tirana is a reflection of Albania’s support for the Belarus opposition’s struggle.
Berisha vows to disband SPAK if elected on May 11

Why is this important: SPAK is a cornerstone of Albania’s justice reform. These accusations come as Berisha himself faces corruption charges, raising questions about true motivations behind his attack. It remains to be seen how SPAK and its head will react to Berisha’s direct accusations of corruption.
Czech scientists discover world’s largest underground thermal lake in Albania

Why is this important: The discovery, reported by Radio Prague International, is a significant breakthrough for geological and hydrological research. The thermal lake, which measures 138 meters in length and holds over 8,000 cubic meters of hot water, is expected to deepen scientific understanding of unique cave and water systems. It may also contribute to the preservation and hydrological management of the area.
Himara listed among top Mediterranean gems for 2025

Why is this important: The article recommends five Mediterranean jewels that remain untouched by overcrowding. These destinations offer warm weather, stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and, in some cases, very affordable prices. Among them, Albania’s Himara stands out as a top pick.
Democrats calls “historic, largest ever” nationwide protest against Rama government

Why is this important: Opposition leaders have consistently declared each protest a historic event aimed at toppling Rama’s government. However, these claims have repeatedly fallen flat due to a lack of popular support and the fact that protests often coincide with the leaders’ own legal troubles. PD’s internal divisions and declining credibility have further diminished the impact of their political actions.
Albania launches €250 million agricultural financing scheme to boost rural investments and exports

Why is this important: Albania’s agricultural sector has historically struggled with low investment and limited access to credit. With only 2.1% of bank loans allocated to agriculture, the new financing scheme aims to overcome these barriers by offering reduced interest rates and easier collateral requirements. This initiative is expected to drive growth, increase competitiveness, and attract investments, particularly from the diaspora, enhancing the long-term sustainability of rural development and exports.
All latest stories
Rama open to Afghan refugees staying in Albania following U.S. policy change

Why is this important: Albania was one of the few countries that welcomed Afghan refugees fleeing Kabul after U.S. forces withdrew in 2021. Refugees were temporarily housed in northern Albanian hotels while awaiting resettlement procedures for entry into the United States. With the new U.S. policy blocking further admissions, Albania now faces the prospect of hosting these refugees for a longer term.
Albanian PM rules out additional migration agreements similar to Italy pact

Why is this important: The November 2023 agreement between Albania and Italy, which allows for the construction of an asylum-seeker camp in northern Albania, sparked interest across Europe as a potential solution to managing migration flows. Several EU countries have approached Albania to negotiate similar deals. Rama has categorically rejected these offers, citing Albania’s unique relationship with Italy, which has provided significant support to the country over the past three decades.
Fierce rivalries erupt among new Albanian political parties, undermining reformist image

Why is this important: There have long been calls in Albania for fresh political leadership to challenge the dominance of traditional parties. Many hoped that the May 11 elections would finally introduce serious new forces into the political arena. The weakening of the Democratic Party and the long spell in power by the Socialists has created space for new actors. Polls too indicated substantial support for these new parties, which were seen as a clean break from the old politics. However, critics now question whether voting for these so-called “reformist” parties is worthwhile, given their recent behavior, which is becoming identical to the conduct of the establishment they aim to replace.
Belarusian opposition leader Tsikhanouskaya honored in Tirana

Why is this important: Tsikhanouskaya has been one of the main leaders of the protest and opposition to Belarus’ authoritarian regime. Her recognition in Tirana is a reflection of Albania’s support for the Belarus opposition’s struggle.
Berisha vows to disband SPAK if elected on May 11

Why is this important: SPAK is a cornerstone of Albania’s justice reform. These accusations come as Berisha himself faces corruption charges, raising questions about true motivations behind his attack. It remains to be seen how SPAK and its head will react to Berisha’s direct accusations of corruption.
Czech scientists discover world’s largest underground thermal lake in Albania

Why is this important: The discovery, reported by Radio Prague International, is a significant breakthrough for geological and hydrological research. The thermal lake, which measures 138 meters in length and holds over 8,000 cubic meters of hot water, is expected to deepen scientific understanding of unique cave and water systems. It may also contribute to the preservation and hydrological management of the area.
Himara listed among top Mediterranean gems for 2025

Why is this important: The article recommends five Mediterranean jewels that remain untouched by overcrowding. These destinations offer warm weather, stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and, in some cases, very affordable prices. Among them, Albania’s Himara stands out as a top pick.
Democrats calls “historic, largest ever” nationwide protest against Rama government

Why is this important: Opposition leaders have consistently declared each protest a historic event aimed at toppling Rama’s government. However, these claims have repeatedly fallen flat due to a lack of popular support and the fact that protests often coincide with the leaders’ own legal troubles. PD’s internal divisions and declining credibility have further diminished the impact of their political actions.
Albania launches €250 million agricultural financing scheme to boost rural investments and exports

Why is this important: Albania’s agricultural sector has historically struggled with low investment and limited access to credit. With only 2.1% of bank loans allocated to agriculture, the new financing scheme aims to overcome these barriers by offering reduced interest rates and easier collateral requirements. This initiative is expected to drive growth, increase competitiveness, and attract investments, particularly from the diaspora, enhancing the long-term sustainability of rural development and exports.
SPAK investigates Belind Këlliçi for diploma forgery and false declarations

Why is this important: Këlliçi has been one of the opposition’s most vocal critics, frequently denouncing corruption and scandals involving Socialist Party officials. With allegations of forgery and false declarations gaining legal traction, Këlliçi’s political reputation is likely to suffer ahead of any future electoral ambitions.