Albania is making steady progress on its path toward European Union membership, Secretary General of the Council of Europe Alain Berset said during an official visit to Tirana, where he is attending the European Political Community (EPC) Summit.
In an exclusive interview with the Albanian Telegraphic Agency (ATSH), Berset emphasized the significance of hosting the EPC summit in Tirana, calling it “a strong signal” of Albania’s role within the wider European family. He also spoke about democratic security in Europe, the importance of reforms, regional stability in the Western Balkans, and youth engagement in building a democratic future.
“Time to Rethink Democratic Security”
“Today, we are witnessing a regression of democracy across the continent and major geopolitical shifts affecting Europe directly,” Berset said. “This is the time to rethink how we want to uphold democracy and security across all 46 Council of Europe member states, including Albania.”
Berset said the EPC summit, still a relatively new initiative, provides a valuable informal setting for European leaders to engage. “It is also an important signal for Albania, highlighting its role as an integral member of the European family,” he noted.
The Council of Europe, with over seven decades of experience promoting human rights, democracy and the rule of law, is ready to support Albania’s EU path. “There can be no EU membership without the full implementation of the Council of Europe’s reforms,” Berset added.
Progress, But Reforms Must Continue
Asked about Albania’s reform progress, Berset said the country is heading in the right direction. “The transformation over the past 30 to 35 years is impressive,” he said, recalling Albania’s difficult past in the 1990s. “There is still work to be done, particularly in fighting corruption, money laundering, and ensuring judicial independence.”
The Council of Europe has a substantial presence in Albania, with nearly 30 staff and several ongoing projects. “We support the authorities, but most importantly, these reforms must be implemented. That is what prepares a country for EU membership,” Berset said.
Enlargement Momentum Could Accelerate
Berset acknowledged that geopolitical shifts, including Russia’s war in Ukraine, have prompted the EU to reassess its enlargement policy. “All countries must complete their journey through reforms. But political will from all EU member states will also be crucial in moving forward,” he said.
He stressed that security investments must go beyond military means. “We must also invest in democratic security. It’s not only about defending territory, but defending our way of life—our democracy.”
Regional Stability Key to European Integration
Berset underscored the importance of regional stability in the Western Balkans for broader European integration. “All Western Balkan countries, except Kosovo, are members of the Council of Europe. Kosovo’s application is now on the table,” he said.
Positive developments across the region are essential, he said, but warned of worrying signs in Bosnia and Herzegovina. “The situation is changing rapidly there. It’s vital to monitor and support stability.”
Berset called on young people in Albania and the region to engage in democratic processes. “You must be active in defending democracy, the rule of law, and human rights. Despite recent crises—from financial shocks to the war in Ukraine—democracy remains the best system to shape the future.”
He acknowledged frustrations, especially among younger generations, but urged persistence. “Democracy allows us to decide how we want to live—not others. Investing in democratic tools today means shaping the future for the next 10, 20, or 30 years.”