On May 11, Albania will conduct its first parliamentary election since starting EU accession negotiations in July 2022. Prime Minister Edi Rama hopes to secure a fourth term with his Socialist Party, emphasizing EU integration as a core campaign theme. The fragmented opposition, dominated by the Democratic Party and smaller groups, poses challenges. The election is crucial for Albaniaâs democratic future and commitment to fighting corruption, with 3.7 million eligible voters, including diaspora participation for the first time. Analysts warn against using EU membership as a mere political slogan, highlighting the need for genuine institutional reforms.
"Using EU integration as an election message harms the broader public understanding of the technical requirements necessary for EU accession, which requires genuine reforms rather than political promises."
"Only we hold Albania's European future in our hands," declared Prime Minister Rama, emphasizing the Socialist Party's role in Albania's pursuit of EU membership.
Collection
[
|
...
]