The Foreign Affairs Committee has recognised Albania’s strong commitment to European Union (EU) accession in a report adopted on Wednesday. Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) highlighted Albania’s broad political consensus and substantial public support for EU membership, as well as its complete alignment with the EU’s foreign and security policies. The report was approved with 57 votes in favour, 11 against, and six abstentions.
While the Committee welcomed Albania’s objective to conclude accession talks by 2027 and acknowledged the progress made to date, it underscored the urgent need to expedite reforms. Key priorities identified include strengthening judicial independence, combating corruption and organised crime, and protecting fundamental rights. It is also essential to enhance media pluralism and transparency to foster public trust.
The report addressed the ongoing political polarisation characterised by confrontational rhetoric and called for a more constructive and inclusive political dialogue. MEPs expressed significant concern regarding malign foreign influence, particularly from Kremlin-linked sources, which poses a threat to Albania’s democratic institutions and its aspirations for EU membership. They urged for increased institutional resilience to address issues of political funding abuse, media manipulation, and cyber threats.
Additionally, MEPs welcomed the establishment of a new €922 million Reform and Growth Facility dedicated to the Western Balkans, which will support Albania’s Reform Agenda contingent upon specific conditions being met. The opening of the European Parliament’s antenna office in Tirana is seen as a vital initiative to strengthen collaborations between the EU, local institutions, and civil society partners throughout the Western Balkans region.
The report also analysed the May 2025 parliamentary elections, describing them as competitive but conducted in a highly polarised environment, with concerns regarding the use of administrative resources. MEPs encouraged Albanian political parties to commit to comprehensive electoral reforms consistent with the recommendations from the OSCE/ODIHR and the Venice Commission.
While progress has been made in judicial reforms and investigations into high-level corruption is acknowledged, challenges stemming from political interference persist. MEPs called for continued efforts to safeguard judicial independence and enhance accountability. The report will be presented for a vote in a forthcoming European Parliament plenary session.
“Albania can proudly be called a ‘front runner’ among the EU accession candidates. In part because of the broad support from the Albanian population. But we are not at the finishing line yet. It is crucial to continue on this path with the same pace and dedication, fighting corruption and strengthening the rule of law. There needs to be a clear emphasis on broadening the economic model, creating jobs and improving the social welfare model, as well as on a comprehensive and inclusive electoral reform,” rapporteur Andreas Schieder (S&D, AT) said.
