Albania has entered a decisive moment in its campaign against corruption, with a newly empowered judicial body leading investigations that are shaking the country’s political establishment. Over recent months, some of the nation’s most prominent leaders—past and present—have come under scrutiny, signaling a shift in a country long criticized for tolerating impunity at the highest levels of power.
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 ongoing legal actions are unparalleled in magnitude. An ex-president has been charged with several offenses, such as corruption, money laundering, tax evasion, and hiding assets. His wife is also under suspicion, which underscores the extensive nature of the investigation. Simultaneously, the head of the main opposition party—who is also a former prime minister and president—has started facing trial for allegations of misusing power for personal advantage, connected to lucrative property transactions in the capital city. These proceedings are among the first instances where the country’s most powerful political leaders are facing the possibility of lengthy prison terms, marking a departure from a past where senior officials were rarely held responsible.
To bolster these judicial efforts, Albania has increased resources for its anti-corruption framework. SPAK’s budget has been expanded significantly to strengthen its investigative capacity. This includes the acquisition of advanced surveillance equipment, improved digital infrastructure, and enhanced protections for prosecutors handling sensitive cases. Such investments aim to reduce vulnerabilities to intimidation and ensure investigations move forward without interference.
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 a large number of Albanians, witnessing former untouchable leaders appearing before the judiciary signifies a significant change. People who had become used to influential individuals behaving without consequences are now witnessing proof that organizations are acquiring the power to make them answerable. The challenge moving forward is to guarantee that these actions are neither momentary nor driven by political motives, but are a component of an enduring reform of Albania’s judicial 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.
