The European People’s Party (EPP) has approved another resolution on Albania, proposed by the Democratic Party, addressing the current situation in the country.The resolution highlights the links between drug trafficking, organized crime, and the political elite, as well as law enforcement officials, which exploit Albania’s economy and political framework for money laundering. It also emphasizes the failure to reach an agreement on electoral reform, resulting in minimal progress in implementing unresolved recommendations from the OSCE/ODIHR and the Venice Commission, where all parties had agreed on electoral changes, particularly regarding voting from abroad.
These changes were intended to align with decisions made by the Constitutional Court.The resolution criticizes corruption and the lack of free and fair elections according to OSCE standards. It also notes the shrinking space for the opposition’s parliamentary oversight role, the absence of a constructive parliamentary culture, and the lack of fostering consensus among all political actors while supporting the rights and responsibilities of the opposition.
Furthermore, it points out the insufficient measures to ensure the proper functioning of democratic institutions in the country, including sustainable pluralism, a competitive opposition, and internal and inter-party political dialogue.
The resolution raises concerns about: “Any alleged political persecution of opposition leaders, MPs, and local government officials, who are facing politically motivated restrictions on their civil rights.”The adopted resolution states: “The European People’s Party (EPP) urges the Albanian authorities to immediately implement the reforms required by the EU to protect human rights and ensure an independent and impartial judiciary, free from political interference; free and fair elections are the cornerstone of democratic governance, and guarantees are needed for the independence of the public administration from the ruling party.
“The EPP will closely monitor developments in Albania, supporting its member parties in the upcoming elections and protecting Albania’s aspirations for EU membership. The EPP reiterates its strong support for Albania’s European integration and stands by the Albanian people in their pursuit of a free and democratic future.
CREATED by:
“KORÇA BOOM”
