Albania should deliver on reforms to win EU candidate status - EP

"Albania should be granted EU candidate status without delay, provided it delivers key reforms in the judiciary, public administration and the functioning of parliament," the European Parliament (EP) said in a press release.

It also recommended Albania to carry out reforms relating to the rule of law, the weakness of which is making it difficult to enforce contracts and is hindering investment, and to address the issue of property rights.

The European Parliament acknowledged that constructive political dialogue in Albania has been an important factor in achieving progress with twelve key priorities agreed with the EU, particularly the proper functioning of parliament and the appointment of an ombudsman. However, according to members of the European Parliament (MEPs), the oversight role of the parliament in Albania must be further improved.

MEPs said they insist on the independence, integrity and transparency of the judiciary, free of political interference and corruption and pointed to the risks of politicising public administration and the inadequate fight against corruption. They highlighted the importance of next year’s general elections in Albania as a test of the maturity of Albanian democracy, as well as the importance of the progress made with the protection of minorities in the country.