U.S. Embassy announces it will engage with Special Parliamentary Commission on Good Governance, Anti-Corruption, and Rule of Law

The American Embassy in Tirana has responded positively to an invitation from the Special Commission on Good Governance, Anti-Corruption, and the Rule of Law to engage with the Commission to engage with the Commission on Friday. The invitation is also open to experts from the European Union.

Why this news is significant

Given the key role played by the US and EU in the Albanian justice reform and in supporting the rule of law and democracy in Albania, the involvement of American experts lends credibility to the work of the Special Commission, known as the Anti-Corruption Commission. 

Context

Their participation appears to have placed the opposition in a difficult position, as they have repeatedly declined invitations from the Socialist majority to join the Commission and have not yet taken up their designated seats in this unique parliamentary structure. In explaining their refusal, the Democrats accused the Prime Minister of using this initiative to bring the Special Structure against Corruption and Organized Crime under control. However, the involvement of American experts provides additional assurance about the seriousness of the initiative. 

According to the socialists, the commission aims to address every aspect of governance, including independent institutions, in order to align it with European standards and prepare Albania for EU membership by 2030.

In its statement, the U.S. Embassy office in Tirana called for full inclusion in the Special Commission to advance necessary reforms: “As steadfast partners in Albania’s efforts to advance the necessary reforms for EU membership, the U.S. Embassy will engage with the special commission on good governance, anti-corruption, and the rule of law. We expect the commission’s work to be inclusive and transparent, in accordance with the constitution, to protect the independence of institutions, and to improve Albania’s future.”

The Commission’s formal objective is to scan institutions and reform the fight against corruption and rule of law as part of the country’s European integration. Additionally, it aims to enhance the Parliament’s supervisory and accountability role over the Government, independent institutions, and executive law enforcement agencies.