Advocacy Meetings in Brussels for Civil Society in Albania, 5 – 6 February 2025

During a two-day visit to Brussels (February 5-6, 2025), EMA, along with colleagues and partners from civil society, held a series of meetings with Albania’s Permanent Mission to the EU, representatives of key European Union institutions, and partners from civil society organizations engaged in the EU integration process. These discussions focused on Albania’s negotiation process, the role of civil society in democratic reforms, and the broader European enlargement agenda.

One of the key meetings took place with Albania’s Ambassador to the EU, H.E. Ferit Hoxha, where discussions centered on the next steps in Albania’s EU accession process. Particular attention was given to the opening of the remaining Cluster Chapters and the fulfillment of interim benchmarks under Cluster Chapter 1 (Fundamentals), which covers key areas such as justice reform, fundamental rights, and democratic institutions. Ambassador Hoxha emphasized that Albania’s integration process is a collective effort that extends beyond the government, stressing that civil society must continue to play an active role as both a watchdog and a bridge between public institutions and citizens. The Ambassador also reaffirmed Albania’s commitment to advancing negotiations with the EU forecasting that within this year Albania plans to open all the remaining Clusters and to close at least on chapter of the EU acquis. He emphasized the need for continuous engagement from all stakeholders and urged Albania to take full advantage of the current positive momentum in the EU accession process.

Another significant meeting was held with representatives of the European Commission’s Directorate-General for Enlargement and Eastern Europe (DG ENEST). Discussions focused on Albania’s progress in implementing reforms outlined in Cluster Chapter 1 and the broader Reform Agenda within the framework of the Growth Plan for the Western Balkans. The European Commission representatives highlighted Albania’s achievements in key areas, while also stressing the challenges that remain in ensuring sustainable and effective reforms. A key point of discussion was the role of civil society organizations (CSOs) in monitoring reforms, contributing to policy discussions, and enhancing public participation in decision-making. Ms. Sigrid Brettel, Director for WB from DG ENEST, acknowledged the positive impact of civil society in Albania, particularly in policy monitoring, advocacy, and public awareness. She noted that while concluding negotiations by 2028 remains an extremely ambitious goal, Albania is on the right path—provided that all actors, including civil society, actively contribute to implementing reforms and strengthening democratic institutions.

The visit also included an important discussion at the European Economic and Social Committee (EESC) with David Hoic, Policy Officer for the Western Balkans. This meeting provided an opportunity to explore ways in which Albanian civil society organizations can actively engage in EU-level consultative processes. A key focus was on the establishment of the Joint Consultative Committee (JCC) between the EESC and Albania, a new platform aimed at strengthening dialogue among civil society actors, employers’ associations, trade unions, and state institutions. The JCC will serve as a structured mechanism for discussing key issues related to social policies, economic development, employment, youth participation, and the rule of law. Through this platform, Albanian civil society will have a direct channel to contribute to policy discussions at the European level, ensuring that the voices of key stakeholders are heard in the integration process.

A highly insightful meeting also took place at International IDEA, an organization dedicated to supporting democratic development worldwide, with a specific focus on the Western Balkans. The discussion with Blerta Hoxha, Program Manager for the Western Balkans at IDEA, provided a valuable opportunity to exchange experiences and explore synergies in areas related to democracy, electoral processes, and governance reforms. The conversation touched upon key topics such as strengthening democratic institutions, the impact of digitalization on democratic participation, and Albania’s progress in its EU accession negotiations. Both parties emphasized the importance of collaborative efforts between civil society organizations and international partners in promoting transparent governance, free and fair elections, and accountable institutions.

These meetings in Brussels reaffirmed the crucial role of civil society in Albania’s European integration process. They provided a platform for exchanging insights, strengthening cooperation with EU institutions, and identifying new opportunities for engagement. The visit highlighted the importance of sustained dialogue, policy advocacy, and strategic partnerships in ensuring that Albania continues on its path toward full EU membership while maintaining democratic integrity and citizen participation throughout the process.