Arianit Shehu, Executive Director of the American Center for Combating Extremism and Terrorism (ACCET), says the European Commission’s 2026 Progress Report confirms Albania’s progress towards EU membership.
In an opinion article, Shehu says European integration must remain above party interests.
The report, published on November 4, recognises Albania’s reforms and results. Shehu points to the opening of all negotiating chapters and the provisional closure of four. He says completing negotiations by the end of 2027 remains an ambitious but achievable goal if the country maintains its reform pace.
Meanwhile, Shehu stresses that the report assesses Albania’s progress against EU standards. It does not support either the government or the opposition. He also urges institutions to address the report’s concerns about corruption, political polarisation and institutional strength.
Turning to recent political developments, Shehu distinguishes peaceful protest from violence. He says citizens have the right to protest, but attacks on institutions and damage to public property cannot replace democratic dialogue.
He also warns that violence could harm Albania’s international image, investment climate and tourism. However, he says allegations about who organised such acts must be supported by evidence.
Finally, Shehu calls on political actors to treat EU integration as a strategic national priority, beyond party divisions. He argues that Albania’s European future depends on continued reforms, strong institutions and concrete results.
/a.c/
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