Ora News – Has Albania’s participation into the Peace Board effect for the EU accession? Gledis Gjipali explains its impact, 22 January 2026

Invited on Ora News, Mr. Gjipali, European integration expert and Executive Director of  European Movement in Albania (EMA), commented on the establishment of the Peace Board, and claimed that this initiative has sparked debate due to its perceived similarity with  the UN.  But added that, given the broad scope of participation, it could still expand despite existing skepticism. Mr. Gjipali also drew attention that firstly it is necessary for to be approved by the Assembly before participation can take place.

Regarding the negotiation process , Gjipali highlighted that, with the opening of all Clusters, Albania is advancing in its EU accession negotiations . The next step of the assessment that our country will undergo from the evaluation of the fulfilment of the interim benchmarks for Cluster  1- Fundamentals, specifically Chapters 23 and 24, and only upon receiving a positive evaluation will it be possible to proceed with the remaining chapters. External factors are positive, such as the European Union, which is pushing the process forward, especially for our country and Montenegro. Gjipali claimed that many factors have a positive impact, but what is important is the pace of reforms to justify the support coming from the EU, and also hoping that we do not face obstacles from other countries that could jeopardise our membership.

Ora News – Has Albania’s participation into the Peace Board effect for the EU accession? Gledis Gjipali explains its impact, 22 January 2026