A2 CNN – Path towards membership, invited Nirvana Deliu, April 17, 2026

The guest on A2 CNN, the Director of Projects at the European Movement in Albania (EMA), explained that the European Commission has continuously provided a relatively positive assessment of Albania’s progress, particularly regarding the fundamental chapters 23 and 24. She emphasizes that the interim benchmarks have been substantially fulfilled, although there are still some gaps being discussed at a technical level within CoELA, which continues to meet twice a week without yet reaching an agreement. After this procedure, the decision is transferred to the Council, which must vote by unanimity.

The approval of the IBAR is important, as it opens the way for the closure of other chapters. However, delays in this process are considered normal, as the fulfilment of reforms within the fundamentals chapters can slow down the overall progress, but this does not necessarily mean that the process is blocked, Deliu stated.

She further added that another important element, apart from the fundamental chapters, is the political criteria, which relates to the functioning of Parliament, good governance, and local governance. In this regard, challenges are being observed, particularly due to the lack of dialogue between political actors. These elements are continuously monitored and have a direct impact on the process.

A2 CNN – Path towards membership, invited Nirvana Deliu, April 17, 2026