In response to the fragile global security situation, Albania has proposed a law to enlist 2,100 reservists into its armed forces. This initiative, backed by the Albanian Ministry of Defense, has been approved by the Economic and Financial Committee of the Albanian Parliament, despite the absence of opposition lawmakers from the Democratic Party.
The law aims to activate a company of 125 individuals for the year 2025, with the total projected cost reaching 155.7 million lek, which fits into Albania’s national budget for the upcoming year. Defense Minister Piro Vengu provided these details during a statement, as reported by A2 CNN.
While the proposal has garnered support, former Defense Minister Mimi Kodheli and leader of the National Movement for Development, Dashamir Shehi, expressed concerns over the projected expenses. Kodheli highlighted that, based on initial calculations, each reservist would cost the government 105,000 lek. She emphasized that the primary goal is to reduce these costs.
Additionally, Socialist Party member Vulnet Sinaj raised concerns about how reservists would be called up if they are employed elsewhere. Sinaj suggested that a law might be necessary to compel private companies to grant permission for reservists to fulfill their military service.
To qualify for service, reservists must be Albanian citizens with no criminal convictions. Depending on their age, reservists may be promoted to soldiers, non-commissioned officers, or officers within the armed forces.
