Albania closed 2025 under the continued rule of the Socialist Party (PS), consolidating its parliamentary dominance while navigating economic pressures, ongoing EU integration efforts, and a politically energised but divided opposition.
Political dominance of the Socialist Party.
In May 2025, Albania held parliamentary elections in which Prime Minister Edi Rama’s Socialist Party won a fourth consecutive term, securing a clear majority in the 140-seat parliament. Rama’s PS captured roughly 52–53 % of the vote and 82–83 seats, while the main opposition, the Democratic Party (PD), lagged behind with about 34 %, reflecting persistent weakness and internal divisions on the centre-right. Rama was confirmed as prime minister for a fourth mandate in September, pledging to anchor his government’s programme around EU membership by 2030.
Analysts and observers said the electoral outcome consolidated PS dominance but also highlighted serious complaints by the opposition regarding misuse of state resources, pressure on public employees and other irregularities, though observers described the poll as competitive.
While political competition continues — with the PD and other smaller parties vocal on issues like corruption and governance — the Socialist Party’s organisational discipline and entrenched position have made it the dominant force in Albanian politics going into 2026.
Economic performance: growth with persistent pressures.
Albania’s economy recorded robust growth in 2025, with international financial institutions projecting around 3.5 % growth this year and similar rates in 2026 as private consumption, tourism and services remain key drivers. Inflation stayed relatively contained, and public debt continued to decline amid prudent fiscal policies, contributing to macroeconomic stability.
Despite this performance, household concerns about cost of living and economic opportunity persist. While inflation is low compared with past peaks and income growth has helped support demand, many citizens continue to report strains from high prices in key categories and uneven distribution of economic gains. Structural issues like wage stagnation in some sectors and labour market mismatches remain challenges.
EU integration: progress and ongoing hurdles.
Albania’s European Union accession process continued through 2025 with measurable steps forward. Negotiations that began in 2024 progressed, with Albania reportedly opening its last cluster of EU accession chapters by late 2025, a symbolic milestone on its EU path. However, full membership remains distant as complex reforms and alignment with EU standards are still incomplete.
Prime Minister Rama reaffirmed his government’s ambitious target of joining the EU by 2030, with negotiation completion by 2027 and subsequent ratification by EU member states. Brussels has acknowledged Albania’s momentum but also emphasised that implementation of reforms — particularly on rule of law, anti-corruption, and public administration — remains uneven and requires sustained political will.
While EU commissioners and officials continue to affirm Albania’s future in the European Union and its strategic importance in the region, the enlargement process remains inherently complex and conditional on overcoming longstanding governance issues.
Corruption and governance debates.
Corruption and governance have been recurring themes in Albanian politics during 2025. High-profile cases involving senior officials — including investigations into ministers and local leaders — have sparked significant protests and political tension, with opposition parties using these developments to criticise the government and demand accountability. Demonstrations in Tirana in December 2025 centred on allegations of misuse of public funds and public sector procurement scandals, intensifying scrutiny of the ruling PS’s record on transparency and rule of law.
These dynamics have contributed to heightened political polarisation ahead of the next election cycle, even as the Socialist Party maintains institutional control.
Foreign policy and regional engagement.
Albania maintained an active role in regional diplomacy and alignment with Western partners, reinforcing its commitments to Euro-Atlantic integration through NATO and EU channels. Its strategic cooperation with neighbouring states and participation in regional initiatives continued to feature prominently in foreign policy discourse, reflecting Tirana’s interest in stability and economic integration in the Western Balkans.
Outlook toward 2026.
As Albania moves into 2026, the political environment reflects a dominant ruling party with a strong parliamentary majority, an opposition still seeking to coalesce around a clear platform, and ongoing public debate over governance and economic opportunity. The EU accession process remains a central government objective, albeit one contingent on deep institutional reforms. Economic stability and moderate growth provide a platform for policy action, but public expectations on living standards, accountability, and systemic reforms will continue to shape political competition and civic engagement.