Albania, a country in the Balkans, has been trying to join the European Union (EU) since 2022. Known as the “Balkan Tiger,” Albania has made progress, but many problems remain. The biggest issue is its justice system. The far-right Freedom Party of Austria (FPÖ) has raised concerns about these problems and is questioning whether Albania can meet the EU’s requirements. Their concerns could delay or even block Albania’s EU membership.
Judicial System Problems
Albania’s road to EU membership has been tough. One key area where Albania needs to improve is its judicial system. The EU has been closely watching Albania’s progress in making these changes. However, corruption and political influence over judges have raised serious doubts.
Markus Tschank, a member of Austria’s FPÖ, is worried about these ongoing issues. He has asked Austria’s Ministry of Justice and the Ministry of Constitutional Affairs for answers. Tschank points out that, despite years of promises and millions in EU aid, Albania’s justice system is still corrupt and ineffective. The FPÖ says that for Albania to join the EU, it must meet certain standards in justice, administration, and democracy. Right now, Albania has not met these standards.
EU Aid Not Helping Enough
The EU has given Albania significant financial help to improve its justice system. For example, Austria has provided €14.7 million to support the EURALIUS project, which aims to strengthen Albania’s judicial system. However, this money has not led to major improvements. The FPÖ argues that Albania’s government has not done enough to make real changes, and corruption continues to be a problem. The Albanian people, as well as the EU, are frustrated that the government has not taken stronger action.
The country’s leaders have failed to address the root causes of corruption. Political interference in the judicial system remains widespread. This lack of progress could make it difficult for Albania to meet the EU’s legal standards and join the union.
A Scandalous Judicial Appointment
One of the most shocking examples of Albania’s justice system problems is the case of Irena Gjoka. Gjoka was appointed as a judge in the country’s anti-corruption court, despite having clear conflicts of interest. This has raised serious concerns about the independence of the judiciary in Albania. Critics argue that if Albania is serious about fighting corruption, it must appoint judges who are free from political pressure.
Gjoka’s appointment is not the only problem. Many other judges and prosecutors in Albania are accused of political bias. This weakens the trust the public has in the justice system. If Albania wants to join the EU, it must take steps to clean up its judiciary and make it fairer.
Media Censorship in Albania
Another problem facing Albania is the government’s increasing control over the media. The Albanian government has proposed banning the social media app TikTok, claiming it is necessary for national security. Critics argue that this is an attempt to silence critical voices and control free speech.
Many journalists in Albania face growing pressure from the government to conform to its views. The Albanian people are also feeling the heat, with little room to speak out against the government. If Albania wants to join the EU, it must respect freedom of speech and protect the rights of journalists.
FPÖ Asks for Answers
In light of these serious issues, Markus Tschank of the FPÖ has submitted an official inquiry to Austrian ministers Anna Sporrer (SPÖ) and Claudia Plakolm (ÖVP). Tschank is asking why Albania’s judicial problems have not been addressed and how a country with such issues can be allowed to join the EU.
The questions are simple but important. Tschank wants to know how Albania can become an EU member if it cannot fix its justice system and stop censorship. The answer to these questions will determine if Albania can move forward with its EU membership or if it will face more delays.
Albania’s Future in the EU
Albania’s journey toward EU membership is not over yet. While the country has made some progress, there is still much work to be done. The justice system needs to be reformed, and the government must stop controlling the media. If Albania does not make these changes, it may not be able to meet the EU’s strict requirements.
For now, Albania’s future in the EU is uncertain. The country has made some strides, but it still has a long way to go. The FPÖ’s concerns and the many problems with the justice system serve as a reminder of how much work is left to do.
If Albania cannot fix these issues, its dream of joining the EU could be delayed or blocked. The answers to the questions raised by the FPÖ will help decide Albania’s future in the EU.
