Preparatory conference held in the “Thaçi 2” case, trial postponed until April 14
A defense preparatory conference was held at the Kosovo Specialist Chambers in The Hague in the case against Hashim Thaçi, Bashkim Smakaj, Isni Kilaj, Fadil Fazliu, and Hajredin Kuçi. Thaçi, Kilaj, and Fazliu attended via video link, while Kuçi and Smakaj waived their right to participate, which the presiding judge, …
Unpaid employee insurance contributions reach €270 million in 2025, up 8%
The value of unpaid obligations by businesses for social insurance contributions rose to €270 million last year, up from €250 million in 2024. According to the Tax Directorate, this 8% increase in the stock indicates that a portion of private businesses are not paying insurance contributions for their employees and …
Bank of Albania: Business confidence rises in March
TIRANA, April 1 – Business confidence in Albania increased in March, according to a report published today by the Bank of Albania. The overall economic sentiment improved slightly, mainly due to stronger confidence in the trade sector, and remains well above its historical average. Confidence in the industrial sector declined …
Government approves digital identity law, introduces screening of foreign investments in critical sectors
TIRANA, April 1 – The government approved three acts at its latest meeting, Economy and Innovation Minister Delina Ibrahimaj said. One act covers electronic identification, trusted services, and a digital identity wallet. Ibrahimaj said the law will replace paper documents and handwritten signatures. She explained that the law strengthens legal …
Government adopts unified rules for public space management across Albania
TIRANA, April 1 – State Minister for Local Government Ervin Demo announced the approval of new rules for the use of public spaces. He said the regulation aims to support business development while addressing issues that limit public access for citizens. Demo said the rules create statewide standards for how …
National Authority for Cybersecurity rejects claims of cyberattack, says operations normal
TIRANA, April 1 – The National Authority for Cybersecurity clarified that recent reports of a breach at the institution are false. In an official statement, the authority dismissed claims by “Homeland Justice” regarding a cyberattack on Albanian institutions. The statement stressed that the circulated material is an official communication to …
Minister Sala inspects Berati Regional Hospital, emphasizes expanding laboratory testing
TIRANA, April 1 – Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Evis Sala, inspected ongoing reconstruction works at Berat Regional Hospital, focusing on the laboratory, where she assessed the uninterrupted provision of diagnostic services. Speaking with laboratory staff, Sala noted that the rise in cases, particularly chronic diseases, has increased the …
Abissnet Superiore week 30 on RTSH: three-day schedule opens with Flamurtari-Tirana
TIRANA, April 1 – The national team takes a break as Abissnet Superiore returns with its 30th week, scheduled across three days starting Friday. The week opens on Friday with the survival clash between Flamurtari and Tirana at 19:00 in Flamurtari Stadium. On Saturday, three more matches follow, including key …
Justice Minister Toni Gogu meets Council of Europe rapporteurs, focuses on judicial reform and anti-corruption
TIRANA, April 1 – Justice Minister Toni Gogu met yesterday with Council of Europe Parliamentary Assembly rapporteurs Ionut-Marian Stroe and Pawel Jablonski. The discussion centered on the progress of judicial reform and upcoming challenges. Gogu emphasized that the vetting process is nearing completion, while judicial institutions have entered a new …
National Padel Championship Concludes, Winners Announced
Albania’s national padel championship concluded today, highlighting the sport’s rapid growth in the country. Around 120 athletes competed over three days across multiple categories, showcasing high skill, dedication, and sportsmanship. The Albanian Padel Federation organized the event with support from the Albanian National Olympic Committee. Winners: Men’s Category 1: Alensio …
Catch up on the weekend’s most important developments with Balkan Insight’s digest of news from countries across the region. Original post Here
The Hague will deliver its verdict on September 16 in the trial of former Kosovo Liberation Army leaders Hashim Thaçi, Kadri Veseli, Rexhep Selimi and Jakup Krasniqi. The four have pleaded not guilty. The case has attracted significant attention in Kosova because of the defendants’ prominent roles during the 1998-1999 …
Albania ranks among the 10 most preferred destinations outside the European Union for EU residents, according to Eurostat data. The Agency for Media and Information cited Eurostat figures showing around 2 million trips to Albania that included at least one overnight stay. These trips accounted for 2% of all journeys …
Deputy Defence Minister Blerina Abrazhda says Albania needs time to build its defence industry and develop the infrastructure, technology and skilled workforce required for production. She made the remarks in response to opposition criticism of the sector’s initial industrial projects. Abrazhda said Albania should assess early projects not only by …
Around 17,000 students have started the new school year at vocational schools across Albania. The programmes combine theoretical education with practical training and work experience to prepare students for the labour market. Minister of Economy and Innovation Delina Ibrahimaj wished students a successful new school year. She also sent a …
Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sports Blendi Gonxhja announced that the Goddess of Butrint, known as Dea, has returned to her place of discovery. The return allows visitors to see the valuable archaeological work up close. The sculpture has completed a long journey from the ancient city of Butrint to …
Euronews reports that Albania could rank among the most sought-after tourism destinations in 2027. The report highlights its beaches and competitive prices as key attractions for tourists. Advantage Travel Partnership, a UK-based organisation that brings together independent travel businesses, ranks Albania among the destinations to visit in 2027. It highlights …
The Antigonea Archaeological Park in the Gjirokastër region hosted participants in the Ultra4Charity Mountain Race. The runners crossed the area and explored the landscapes of the Drinos Valley. Tourism, Culture and Sports Minister Blendi Gonxhja said the event promoted the area’s cultural heritage and tourism potential. Ultra4Charity organises races and …
Gonxhja: Archaeological Discovery in Strikçan Among Five Finalists for International “Palmyra” Award
A monumental tomb discovered in Strikçan, Bulqizë, has been selected among the five finalists for the international “Palmyra” Award and the “Special” Public Award at the Borsa Mediterranea del Turismo Archeologico (BMTA). The Institute of Archaeology led the project that uncovered the monumental tomb. Tourism, Culture and Sports Minister Blendi …
Tourists continue to visit Vlora in September as they enjoy the final days of summer, the city’s natural beauty and its lively coastal atmosphere. The coastal city remains a popular destination even after the peak summer months. September brings milder temperatures and a quieter atmosphere. This combination attracts visitors who …