The European Parliament has approved the Resolution on Albania, recognizing the country’s progress during 2023 and 2024 while emphasizing the need to accelerate key reforms. The decision followed the debate held on 8 July and the preliminary approval of the report by the Committee on Foreign Affairs on 4 June 2025.

With 502 votes in favor out of 686 MEPs present, the resolution—drafted by Austrian MEP Andreas Schieder—was adopted.

Full Report Overview:

Progress and Challenges
The report welcomes Albania’s unwavering commitment to the EU integration process and the broad political and public support it enjoys. It praises the rapid progress in recent years, including the opening of two negotiating clusters in 2024, and Albania’s ambition to conclude accession negotiations by the end of 2027.

However, MEPs urge faster reforms to strengthen the rule of law, fight corruption and organized crime, safeguard fundamental rights, and advance freedom of expression and media independence.

Democratic Institutions and Media
The report stresses the need for constructive dialogue among political forces and overcoming deep political polarization. It expresses concern over the deterioration of media freedom and calls on Albanian authorities to ensure transparency in media ownership and to protect journalists from pressure and attacks, including through a stronger legal framework.

Fundamental Rights and Rule of Law
MEPs emphasize that Albania must enhance the protection of women’s rights and LGBTI+ individuals, as well as ensure the rights of national minorities are respected. They also stress the urgent need to guarantee judicial independence by addressing political interference and pressure on justice institutions.

Socio-Economic and Environmental Reforms
The resolution welcomes Albania’s reform agenda aimed at improving the business climate, boosting digitalization, enabling a green transition, and fostering sustainable economic growth. It also encourages efforts to reduce poverty and social exclusion by improving access to education, housing, and healthcare.

MEPs commend Albania’s accession to the Single Euro Payments Area (SEPA) in November 2024 and its improved fiscal performance, but underline that the country must double its efforts to meet environmental protection and sustainable energy goals.