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Albania under the EU's scrutiny: A critical dossier on justice, corruption and the media
A report recently published by the European Parliament, titled "The Commission's annual rule of law reports: Five years on (2020–2025)", paints a cold and sober picture of Albania, far from the political propaganda that speaks of unstoppable progress on the path towards the European Union.
The report takes stock of the European Commission's five-year assessment of the rule of law in EU member states and candidate countries. Albania is included in this comparative analysis in detail, and the picture that emerges from it is alarming.
Justice, reformed on paper, but not in reality
Justice reform, proclaimed as the flagship of the Rama government and a key condition for opening negotiations, remains lacking in effectiveness, according to the report. New structures have been established, including SPAK and KLGJ/KLP, but the courts continue to suffer from chronic delays, lack of transparency and political influence.
The report highlights that while there are investigations and some prosecutions, there are no significant punishments for high-level officials, which leaves the perception of impunity alive and deep.
Corruption, the obstacle that does not move
Another critical point is the fight against corruption, which instead of showing progress has been stuck in rhetoric. The EU describes it as a structural problem affecting all levels of public administration, including procurement, justice and the economy.
The lack of concrete and sustainable results in this area is becoming a real obstacle to the integration process, while Brussels is no longer willing to give "passing grades" for empty political declarations.
Media under pressure, freedom of speech at risk
Media freedom is another concern that the EU has clearly expressed. Concentration of ownership, lack of transparency in funding, and pressures on journalists have created a hostile environment for free speech.
The report highlights that attacks on journalists are on the rise and institutional mechanisms for their protection are weak or non-existent. This places Albania in a fragile position in terms of democratic standards.
Balance of powers? Absolute majority, minimal control
One of the most significant findings is the lack of democratic control over the executive. Parliamentarism in Albania is fading in the face of a powerful majority that controls every link in decision-making, while the opposition is divided and powerless to exercise real control.
The EU notes that the democratic functioning of institutions is weakened, while inter-institutional relations are characterized by mistrust, political conflicts and lack of accountability. /Pamphlet
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