Why is this important: Rama’s statement came during a joint appearance with Montenegrin Prime Minister Milojko Spajić at Chatham House, where both leaders spoke on the Western Balkans’ European future. The issue of migration unexpectedly stole the spotlight when Spajić appeared more open to the idea of hosting migrant facilities if matched by European investment — a remark that prompted a sharp, ironic response from Rama.

Why is this important: Over three decades, Albanian lawmakers have turned to the Venice Commission for opinions on key constitutional and legal issues — from the first efforts to draft a new Constitution in 1993 to recent cases such as that of the former foreign minister where the Commission was asked to weigh the balance between parliamentary independence and Constitutional Court rulings. Although the Commission’s opinions are advisory, they have been crucial in shaping Albania’s constitutional and institutional development.

Why is this important: The current SPAK chief’s term ends in mid-December, and a successor must be chosen before then. The new director will serve a three year, nonrenewable term, in line with the justice reform framework that also limits SPAK prosecutors to one nine-year term without reappointment.

Why is this important: The upcoming protest has become the latest flashpoint between Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama and Kosovo’s ruling Vetëvendosje movement, led by Albin Kurti. In an unexpected move, Vetëvendosje launched a harsh attack against Rama, accusing him of hypocrisy for supporting the protest despite once backing the creation of the Specialist Chambers — the very court now trying UÇK leaders.

Why is this important: The draft triggered strong opposition for what critics saw as an attempt to introduce alternative  genders into Albanian law — a concept that remains controversial even across many EU countries. Facing backlash, including from religious institutions, the ruling Socialist Party moved swiftly to amend the bill, reaffirming the constitutional definition of gender as man and woman.

Why is this important: The ICG, one of the most respected global conflict-analysis organizations, highlights a sharp cooling of ties between Kosovo and its Western allies — an alarming shift given the historic U.S. and EU role as the country’s strongest political and financial supporters. The report suggests that Kurti’s policies risk isolating Kosovo internationally and undermining the fragile progress made since independence.

Why is this important: The revelation underscores a recurring pattern in Albanian public life, where politicians, judges, and prosecutors seek validation or intervention from international partners rather than resolving institutional disputes domestically. While Albania’s justice reform has long depended on foreign support, Çela’s criticism marks a rare moment in which a top official openly questions the outsized influence of diplomatic actors in the country’s internal judicial affairs.

Why is this important: Kosovo continues to miss out on millions of euros in EU funding due to its ongoing institutional crisis, which prevents it from formalizing the required agreements with the EU. While other countries move forward with economic support and integration projects, Kosovo’s political paralysis means it remains outside one of the region’s most significant financial initiatives.