Albania is experiencing a critical phase in its fight against corruption, with a newly strengthened judicial group spearheading inquiries that are unsettling the nation’s political elite. In the past few months, several of the country’s most notable figures—both former and current—have faced examination, indicating a change in a nation long reproached for allowing impunity among its top officials.
At the heart of this effort is SPAK, the Special Prosecution Office Against Corruption and Organized Crime, which was created as part of judicial reforms aimed at dismantling entrenched networks of political protection. The institution has grown into one of the most trusted entities in the country, seen by many citizens as a symbol of long-awaited accountability. Recent surveys show that a clear majority of Albanians believe SPAK is finally tackling cases that were once untouchable.
The prosecutions now unfolding are unprecedented in scale. A former president has been indicted on multiple charges, including corruption, money laundering, tax evasion, and concealing assets. His spouse also faces allegations, highlighting the breadth of the inquiry. Meanwhile, the leader of the main opposition party—himself a former prime minister and president—has begun standing trial on accusations of abusing power for private gain, linked to high-value property deals in the capital. These cases are among the first where the nation’s most influential political figures face the prospect of significant prison sentences, breaking with a history in which top officials were rarely held accountable.
In order to support these judicial initiatives, Albania has dedicated additional resources to its framework for combating corruption. The budget for SPAK has been considerably augmented to improve its capability for investigations. This encompasses securing advanced monitoring equipment, upgrading digital systems, and providing better safeguards for prosecutors dealing with delicate cases. These investments are intended to diminish risks of coercion and ensure that inquiries proceed without obstacles.
These actions unfold as Albania advances in its bid for membership in the European Union. Brussels has long emphasized the fight against corruption as a central condition for accession. The new prosecutions, combined with institutional upgrades, are viewed as essential steps in aligning Albania’s governance with EU standards. International observers have noted tangible improvements, particularly in the independence of prosecutors and the growing willingness to pursue high-level cases.
Despite these advances, challenges remain. Reports continue to point to systemic corruption within various layers of government and business. Local administrations, procurement processes, and public services are still vulnerable to illicit practices. Transparency in state institutions is often limited, and the enforcement of anti-corruption measures is uneven. For reforms to endure, experts stress the need for deeper cultural change, stronger safeguards for whistleblowers, and continued political will across party lines.
Beyond prosecutions, Albania is working to embed anti-corruption practices into its broader governance structures. The government has updated its national action plan to clarify institutional roles, improve oversight, and strengthen coordination among agencies. Training programs for civil servants and judicial staff are being expanded, while universities and legal institutions are introducing courses designed to instill professional ethics and reinforce standards of integrity in future generations of officials.
For many Albanians, the sight of once-untouchable leaders facing judges marks a dramatic turning point. Citizens who had long grown accustomed to the idea that powerful figures could act with impunity now see evidence that institutions are gaining the strength to hold them accountable. The test ahead lies in ensuring that these steps are not temporary or politically selective, but rather part of a lasting transformation of Albania’s justice system.
The journey is still incomplete. Nevertheless, the measures implemented up to this point—legal charges, investment from institutions, and cooperation on a global scale—are gaining traction. As Albania progresses with its journey towards European integration, the trustworthiness of this anti-corruption initiative will continue to be a key element. At risk is not just the political trajectory of the nation but also the faith of its people in the assurance of a just and responsible government.
