Albania Strengthens Judicial Reform in Key 2025 Step

Albania’s parliament is moving to strengthen its justice system. The Law Committee introduced major amendments to judicial laws on November 27, 2025. The goal is to tighten vetting and governance rules for judges and prosecutors.

These changes target the laws governing their status and the bodies that oversee them. According to reports, the reforms aim to address long-standing concerns about integrity and transparency.

Key Changes to Albania’s Judicial Vetting Process

The proposals introduce stricter background checks for candidates. This is especially true for non-magistrate candidates from civil society or academia. The People’s Advocate will gather detailed information from tax and investigative authorities.

This creates a more robust integrity check. It responds to criticism that previous vetting processes were not thorough enough. The reforms aim to ensure only individuals of the highest standard join key councils.

Furthermore, magistrates with active disciplinary measures will be barred from leadership posts. This raises the professional conduct bar significantly. The changes are designed to rebuild public trust in judicial appointments.

New Governance Rules and Transitional Measures

The role of the Prosecutor General in appointments is expanding. Their opinion must now be considered when selecting chief prosecutors. This creates a more balanced and consultative appointment process.

To ensure stability, a key transitional measure is included. Current heads of courts and prosecution offices who passed vetting will stay until 2028. This automatic confirmation prevents disruption during the reform implementation.

The reform package also adjusts terms for judicial inspectors. Their mandate is extended to seven years for more stability. This change addresses a previous lack of interest in these vital oversight roles.

The success of Albania’s judicial vetting reforms hinges on consistent and transparent implementation. These amendments represent a critical step toward a more accountable justice system.

A quick knowledge drop for you

What is the main goal of these judicial reforms?

The main goal is to strengthen integrity and transparency. The reforms impose stricter vetting for candidates and new governance rules. They aim to rebuild public trust in Albania’s justice system.

Who will be affected by the stricter background checks?

All candidates for the High Judicial and Prosecutorial Councils will face tougher checks. This particularly impacts non-magistrate candidates from academia or civil society. Their financial and professional histories will be scrutinized more deeply.

What happens to current court leaders under the new rules?

Current heads of courts and prosecution offices get automatic confirmation until 2028. This applies only if they have already passed the vetting process. It ensures continuity during the transition to the new system.

How does the reform change the Prosecutor General’s role?

The Prosecutor General gains a formal advisory role in appointing chief prosecutors. Their opinion must be considered during the selection process. This change aims to create more balanced judicial appointments.

Why were these amendments proposed now?

The amendments follow years of consultation dating back to 2022. They respond to internal institutional requests and external pressure from EU partners. The goal is to align Albania’s judiciary with European standards.

What was a key criticism the reforms address?

A key criticism was the lack of transparency in judicial council decisions. The reforms introduce measures to make decisions more understandable and accessible. This aims to improve public accountability.