OSCE Questions Efficiency, Quality of Balkan Organised Crime, Graft Trials
An exhaustive analysis of organised crime and corruption trials in five Western Balkan countries identified a lack of efficiency, staffing, fairness and quality. Original post Here
Italy Eyes August Start Date for Albania Asylum Centres
Italy’s right-wing prime minister, Giorgia Meloni, inspected work on two asylum centres being built in Albania under a controversial deal between the two countries. Original post Here
As Palestine Recognitions Grow, Balkan States’ Stances Shaped by Geopolitics
Slovenia has recognised war-ravaged Palestine as independent, but some Balkan countries prefer to stay quiet and follow the United States’ lead – while others recognised Palestinian statehood decades ago while they were under communist rule. Original post Here
Albania Leader’s New Anti-Corruption Initiative Branded a PR Project
Prime Minister Edi Rama has pushed through a resolution setting up a new Special Anti-Corruption Commission – but critics claim it’s a partisan initiative, established to combat negative publicity over graft cases involving former ruling party politicians. Original post Here
Balkan Prison Overcrowding Worsening – Report
Prison populations and incarceration rates in the Balkans are too high and continuing to grow, according to new research. Original post Here
Albanian, Spanish Police Bust Illegal Scheme to Help Albanians Enter UK
Albanian and Spanish Police in a two-year investigation have uncovered a crime group that forged documents to enable Albanians to illegally enter the UK and Ireland. Original post Here
Albanian Court Hands Opposition Democratic Party Back to Berisha
Tuesday’s court ruling effectively ends a two-year battle for control of Albania’s once-mighty Democratic Party. Original post Here
Albania-Greece Tensions Intensify as Jailed Mayor-Elect Becomes European MP
Fredi Beleri, a mayor-elect in Albania who has been in prison since May 2023, is expected to enter the European parliament after standing as a Greek MEP, further complicating already strained relations between Albania and Greece. Original post Here
‘Administrative Silence’: FOI Requests Go Unanswered in Balkans, BIRN Report Says
Public institutions in the six Western Balkan countries routinely refuse to respond to freedom of information requests, and it’s getting worse, a new report from the Balkan Investigative Reporting Network warns. Original post Here
Balkan Countries Push for Record Tourism Year, Despite Growth Concerns
As beaches, historic sites and natural beauties in Croatia, Montenegro, Albania, Greece and Turkey draw increasing numbers of tourists, governments eye bumper profits – though experts warn that relentless growth in the sector comes with costs. Original post Here
Tirana, July 11 – International artist Kanye West will perform today in Tirana. The concert will take place at Eagle Stadium, a venue built specifically in the Kashar area. To ensure public safety and manage traffic, Tirana Police has announced temporary road restrictions around the event area. From 07:00 to …
Tirana, July 11 – Justice Minister Toni Gogu said justice system reforms and the implementation of the National Reform Agenda under the Growth Plan for the Western Balkans are concrete steps toward Albania’s European Union membership. Gogu said a strong, independent and accountable justice system remains a key pillar of …
Albania moves closer to the European Union as it prepares for the 9th Intergovernmental Conference with the EU on July 14 in Brussels. Prime Minister Edi Rama announced that Albania will provisionally close the first three negotiation chapters, marking a major milestone in the country’s EU accession process. The conference …
Italian travel magazine “The Wom Travel” has ranked Albania among the 10 most authentic and least crowded destinations in Europe for summer 2026, highlighting the country’s untouched nature, cultural heritage and affordable travel options. According to the publication, Albania has strengthened its position on Europe’s tourism map by offering visitors …
Vila 31 x Art Explora is turning into a creative hub for cultural exchanges, artistic performances and public activities throughout July. The program includes literary talks, film screenings, live performances and children’s workshops, offering visitors new opportunities to engage with art and creativity. From July 17 to 19, Art Explora …
Albania celebrates 106 years since the establishment of the National Library of Albania, founded on July 10, 1920. The library began with the collection of the Albanian Literary Commission, which moved to the Ministry of Education in 1920. After its foundation, the institution worked to expand its collection and strengthen …
British newspaper “Telegraph” highlights Albania as one of Europe’s most attractive travel destinations. The country attracts visitors with its crystal-clear waters, natural landscapes, affordable prices and growing popularity on social media. A few years ago, Albania was still a little-known destination. Today, more tourists are discovering the Albanian Riviera, historic …
Tirana, July 10 – The ninth edition of the MIK Festival has opened in Korça. The four-day event brings concerts and cultural performances to historic venues across the city. Organisers will present a wide range of musical genres throughout the festival. Festival founder and internationally acclaimed soprano Inva Mula said …
TIRANA, July 10 – Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Ferit Hoxha took part in the Friends of the Western Balkans meeting in Rome, hosted by Italy’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani. Participants discussed the region’s European future and the European Union’s enlargement process. In a post …
Albania and Italy are expanding customs cooperation by focusing on digital systems, electronic data exchange and the use of artificial intelligence in customs operations. Director General of the Albanian Customs Administration Besmir Beja met with Roberto Alesse, Director General of the Italian Customs and Monopolies Agency, during an official visit …