Deficiencies with the independence and integrity of the judiciary; lack of independent media; as well as the ongoing corruption in governance, are the main problems found in Albania during the past year, according to the report of the US Department of State for Human Rights, published today.

In addition, this report states that progress has been made, mentioning the Special Anti-Corruption Structure (SPAK) which during the past year has investigated, prosecuted and punished senior officials and members of organized crime, involved in corruption .

Speaking of women’s rights, the report notes that the government did not effectively enforce the law when it comes to rape.

The report also states that the authorities have not published data on criminal prosecutions for cases of spousal rape.

The concept of spousal rape is not well understood and authorities often do not consider it a crime, the report said. Although the law prohibits sexual harassment, officials rarely enforced the law’s obligation, according to the report.