The European Parliament’s Foreign Affairs Committee on Wednesday commended Albania’s sustained commitment to EU membership, while urging Tirana to accelerate key reforms to stay on track for completing accession talks by 2027.
In a report adopted by 57 votes in favour, 11 against and six abstentions, lawmakers welcomed Albania’s broad political consensus and strong public backing for EU integration. They noted the country’s full alignment with the EU’s foreign and security policy.
”Albania can proudly be called a front-runner among EU accession candidates, in part due to the strong support of its population,” said rapporteur Andreas Schieder (S&D, Austria). “But we are not at the finish line yet. It is crucial to maintain the same pace and dedication, fighting corruption and strengthening the rule of law. There must also be a clear focus on broadening the economic model, creating jobs, improving social welfare and implementing comprehensive and inclusive electoral reform.”
Reforms needed on judiciary, corruption and media freedom
While acknowledging progress made, Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) underlined the urgent need for deeper reforms. They called for strengthened judicial independence, more effective action against corruption and organised crime, and stronger protection of fundamental rights. Enhancing media pluralism and transparency remains critical to restoring public trust, the report said.
Political polarisation, foreign interference remain concerns
The committee flagged persistent political polarisation and confrontational rhetoric, calling for more constructive and inclusive political dialogue. MEPs voiced concern over malign foreign influence, particularly from Kremlin-linked actors, warning of risks to Albania’s democratic institutions and its EU accession prospects.
They called for enhanced institutional resilience to combat political funding abuses, media manipulation and cyber threats.
Support through EU funding and presence
MEPs welcomed the EU’s €922 million Reform and Growth Facility for the Western Balkans, which will support Albania’s reform agenda once key conditions are met. They also hailed the recent opening of the European Parliament’s antenna office in Tirana, calling it an important step in strengthening ties with local institutions and civil society across the region.
Elections and rule of law
The report referred to the May 2025 parliamentary elections as competitive but highly polarised, with concerns over the misuse of administrative resources. MEPs urged Albanian political parties to engage in comprehensive electoral reforms in line with OSCE/ODIHR and Venice Commission recommendations.
They welcomed progress in justice reform and investigations into high-level corruption, but warned that political interference continues to undermine judicial independence. Continued efforts to ensure accountability and safeguard the rule of law are essential, they said.
The report will be put to a vote in a forthcoming plenary session of the European Parliament.