The Special Prosecution Against Corruption and Organized Crime (SPAK) has released its 2024 annual report, outlining achievements in fighting corruption and organized crime, while also identifying ongoing challenges that require legal reforms and stronger institutional support.

•  External Pressure on SPAK

One of the main concerns raised is the external pressure exerted on SPAK by organized crime, political actors, and media outlets. According to the report, such interference threatens both the constitutional independence of the institution and the effectiveness and integrity of its investigations. SPAK calls for coordinated institutional action to safeguard its autonomy.

•  Status of Special Prosecutors After Mandate Expiry

The lack of a clear legal definition regarding the status of special prosecutors after their mandate ends remains unresolved. This uncertainty, SPAK warns, could affect the professional standards of investigations and disrupt the continuity of major cases.

•  Lack of Legal Advisors

The report highlights the absence of legal advisors as a significant issue impacting the quality of investigations and the defense of cases at all levels of the judiciary, including the Constitutional Court.

•  Low Number of Case Referrals from Public Institutions

Another challenge is the low number of referrals from public institutions, including the State Police, regarding cases of corruption and organized crime. SPAK calls for closer cooperation and greater commitment from these entities to tackle criminal activity.

•  Case Management System Development

Although SPAK finalized the development of case management system modules in December 2024, the process has been put on hold due to the conclusion of a supporting project by ICITAP. SPAK expects the system to be completed within 2025 using EU funding.

•  SPAK’s Analysis Unit

The establishment of an analysis unit to support complex investigations and international reporting remains a challenge. SPAK is currently working with international experts to design a suitable model aligned with its institutional needs.

•  Extradition Issues and Special Court Jurisdiction

The report highlights two critical issues:

• Lack of jurisdiction by special courts to review foreign requests for the recognition and execution of criminal decisions.

• Ongoing problems with the non-extradition of Albanian nationals located or arrested in the United Arab Emirates.

•  Need for Legal Amendments

To address these issues, SPAK proposes amendments to Law No. 95/2016 (“On the organization and functioning of institutions to fight corruption and organized crime”) and other related legislation. These changes aim to improve SPAK’s efficiency and capacity in combating corruption and organized crime.