European People's Party's hard line on Albania's accession

Albania's path towards the European Union is once again under the microscope of the European Parliament, with the European People's Party (EPP) raising the bar of demands and directly linking progress to substantive, rather than formal, reforms.

In their interventions in view of the 2025 report, MEPs of the political group insist that the accession process cannot be based on legislative "window dressing", but on measurable results that stand the test of time. The emphasis is clearly shifting from theory to implementation, with the main criterion being the functionality of the institutions and the independence of the judiciary.

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Particular concern is expressed about the blurred boundary between the state and the party apparatus. According to the proposals submitted, the current situation creates distortions in political competition and undermines parity between political forces.

In the same context, the issue of the electoral process is raised again. The European People's Party calls for a comprehensive review of the system, with emphasis on transparency of funding, equal media coverage and ensuring meaningful participation of the opposition. Criticism is also levelled at unilateral interventions in the functioning of parliament, which, as noted, limit institutional dialogue.

In the field of combating corruption, the action of the Special Structure against Corruption and Organized Crime (SPAK) is recognized, with a simultaneous warning that any attempt to limit its powers will be considered a setback. Strengthening its independence and resources is considered crucial for the continuation of investigations.

Special emphasis is also given to issues that remain open wounds for the country, such as property. The proposals call for the practical restoration of rights through the return or compensation of property to the rightful owners, directly linking the issue to Albania's European perspective. At the same time, the issue of systematic monitoring of the situation of national minorities is raised, both in terms of education and the preservation of their cultural identity.

In the field of foreign policy, Albania's stance towards the European Union is assessed positively, especially in terms of alignment with common decisions and support for Ukraine. However, there is no lack of reservations about initiatives that move outside the European framework, noting that such moves may weaken existing European cooperation processes in the Western Balkans.

The message being conveyed is clear: the accession process will not be judged by the announcements, but by the consistency and depth of the changes. For Brussels, the next period will be decisive for whether Albania can move from commitments to action.