The European Commission said it is the responsibility of Albania’s parliament to handle without delay requests to lift the immunity of its members, stressing the importance of the rule of law and judicial independence in the country.
In an exclusive response to Report TV regarding an institutional clash involving the Special Prosecution against Corruption (SPAK), the prime minister’s office and parliament over the case of Deputy Prime Minister Belinda Balluku, a Commission spokesperson said an effective fight against corruption is essential for Albania’s progress toward European Union membership.
“Handling requests to lift parliamentary immunity without delay is the responsibility of the Albanian parliament,” the spokesperson said, adding that the effective fight against corruption is a key expectation of both the EU and Albanian citizens.
The Commission underlined that it attaches great importance to the rule of law and the independence of the judiciary in Albania, as well as to the work carried out under the justice reform. It said it continues to closely monitor and report on progress in this area as part of Albania’s EU accession negotiations.
In its 2025 report on Albania, the Commission noted that while the resilience of the judiciary has generally improved, increased efforts by public officials or politicians to exert undue influence and pressure on the judicial system remain a serious concern. It recommended further strengthening accountability by reducing political interference in the judiciary and prosecution services.
Asked whether the institutional confrontation could affect Albania’s EU path, the Commission reiterated that such issues are closely monitored within the enlargement process.
EU institutions are in regular dialogue with Albanian authorities, the spokesperson said, adding that the EU–Albania Justice, Freedom and Security Committee is scheduled to meet in early March, providing an opportunity to continue discussions on justice reform.
