The European Parliament’s Committee on Foreign Affairs has officially adopted the 2025 report on Albania, with 58 members voting in favor. The document serves as a key assessment of the country’s alignment with European Union standards and its overall progress toward full membership.
The report, authored by Andreas Schieder, the European Parliament’s Standing Rapporteur for Albania, provides a comprehensive overview of the nation’s recent achievements while maintaining a firm stance on the challenges that lie ahead.
Recognition of Progress
The 2025 report commends Albania for its continued commitment to the EU integration process. It highlights the country’s steady progress in harmonizing its legislation with the EU acquis and its proactive role in regional cooperation and foreign policy alignment.
Rapporteur Schieder noted that Albania has demonstrated a clear strategic orientation, maintaining its position as a reliable partner in the Western Balkans.
Calls for Deeper Reform
Despite the positive momentum, the European Parliament emphasized that the path to accession requires more than just legislative changes. The report stresses the necessity for:
- Deeper Institutional Reforms: Strengthening the independence of the judiciary and the rule of law.
- Sustainability: Ensuring that reforms are not only passed but are effectively implemented and resilient to political changes.
- Fight Against Corruption: Continued efforts to produce tangible results in combating organized crime and high-level corruption.
The approval of this report sends a strong signal of support from Brussels, reinforcing that while the “door is open,” the pace of negotiations will depend strictly on Albania’s ability to deliver sustainable and deep-rooted reforms in the coming year.
