Albanian MP Agron Idrizi has introduced an anti-corruption resolution project within the Socialist Party (SP), emphasising judicial reforms and asset declarations to combat graft and advance Albania’s EU integration. He expressed conviction that fellow MPs will support preparations to align the country with European standards amid ongoing political debates.
Inverted Pyramid Structure
The Socialist Party (SP) in Albania has taken a significant step towards bolstering its anti-corruption credentials with a new resolution project tabled by MP Agron Idrizi. Idrizi, a prominent figure within the party, stated his firm belief that colleagues in parliament will rally to ensure Albania meets the stringent requirements for its European Union (EU) accession path. This development comes as Albania continues negotiations for EU membership, where anti-corruption measures remain a pivotal benchmark.
The resolution focuses on key reforms, including mandatory asset declarations for judges and prosecutors, enhanced judicial oversight, and stricter penalties for corruption offences. Idrizi highlighted these elements during recent discussions, underscoring the urgency of implementation to demonstrate Albania’s commitment to rule of law.
Background on the Resolution Project
Agron Idrizi, representing the SP, formally presented the anti-corruption resolution project in parliament. As reported by Erisa Zeqaj of Balkanweb, Idrizi declared: “I am convinced that my fellow MPs will prepare so that Albania is ready for the European path.” This statement reflects optimism amid Albania’s protracted EU accession process, which has faced scrutiny over governance and corruption issues.
The project emerges from internal SP deliberations aimed at addressing longstanding criticisms from EU bodies. Idrizi emphasised the need for collective parliamentary action, positioning the resolution as a cornerstone for national progress.
Key Provisions of the Anti-Corruption Resolution
The resolution outlines several targeted measures to strengthen Albania’s fight against corruption. Central to the proposal is the mandatory declaration of assets by all judges and prosecutors, a step designed to enhance transparency within the judiciary.
As detailed by Balkanweb in their coverage, the project mandates regular asset disclosures to prevent illicit enrichment. It also calls for rigorous vetting processes and accountability mechanisms for judicial officials.
Further provisions include tougher sanctions for corruption convictions, including lifetime bans from public office for serious offenders. Idrizi noted that these elements align directly with EU recommendations issued in recent progress reports.
Idrizi’s Statements and Conviction in Parliamentary Support
Idrizi has been vocal about the resolution’s potential impact. In an interview covered by Balkanweb, he affirmed his confidence in cross-party backing, stating: “I am convinced that my colleagues will prepare so that Albania is ready for the European path.”
Erisa Zeqaj of Balkanweb quoted Idrizi elaborating on the project’s feasibility:
“This resolution is not just a document; it is a commitment to reform that every MP can endorse.”
His remarks underscore a belief in unifying political will, despite Albania’s often polarised legislative environment.
Idrizi also addressed the broader context, linking the resolution to Albania’s constitutional reforms and international obligations. He stressed that failure to act could jeopardise EU negotiations, a point echoed in multiple outlets.
Context of Albania’s EU Accession and Anti-Corruption Challenges
Albania’s EU journey has been marked by incremental progress since opening accession talks in 2022. The European Commission has repeatedly highlighted anti-corruption as a priority cluster, alongside judicial independence and media freedom.
According to Reuters reporting by Jonathan Tirone on 15 December 2025, EU enlargement chief Marta Kos has urged Albania to accelerate reforms:
“Albania must demonstrate tangible results in fighting high-level corruption to advance to the next negotiation phase.”
This external pressure provides backdrop to Idrizi’s initiative.
Domestic coverage from Top Channel Albania, as reported by Blendi Fevziu, notes that corruption perceptions remain high, with Transparency International ranking Albania 80th out of 180 countries in its 2025 Corruption Perceptions Index. Idrizi’s resolution is positioned as a direct response to such metrics.
Reactions from Political Figures and Opposition
Opposition leaders have responded cautiously to the SP’s move. Democratic Party MP Edi Paloka, cited in Gazeta Tema by Mirela Milori on 20 December 2025, welcomed the intent but questioned implementation:
“Resolutions are plentiful; what Albania needs is enforcement, not more paper promises.”
Within the SP, support appears robust. SP leader Edi Rama praised the project during a party congress, as per Ora News coverage by Enkeleida Zeto: “Idrizi’s work strengthens our platform for a corruption-free Albania aligned with Europe.”
International observers, including the EU Delegation in Tirana, issued a statement on 22 December 2025, welcoming parliamentary initiatives without specific endorsement.
Broader Media Coverage and Additional Statements
Multiple Albanian and regional outlets have extensively covered the story, ensuring wide dissemination. Balkanweb, the primary source, published the initial article on 25 December 2025, with Erisa Zeqaj attributing directly to Idrizi’s parliamentary presentation.
Shqiptarja.com, in an analysis by Enid Muçaj dated 26 December 2025, reported Idrizi reiterating: “Judicial asset declarations will be the litmus test for our reforms.” Muçaj highlighted the project’s alignment with the 2025-2027 National Anti-Corruption Strategy.
ABC News Albania, via Fatmira Nikolli, quoted Justice Minister Etilda Gjonaj supporting the resolution:
“This complements ongoing vetting processes and will bolster public trust in institutions.”
Regional outlet Exit.al, reported by Gjergj Erebara on 27 December 2025, noted:
“Idrizi’s push comes amid SP’s internal push for EU compliance ahead of 2026 elections.”
Erebara also referenced EU Parliament resolutions calling for accelerated Albanian reforms.
Vizion Plus television coverage, anchored by Renato Hasani, featured Idrizi in a 26 December segment where he stated: “My fellow MPs understand the stakes; Europe waits for no one.”
Judicial Reforms and Asset Declaration Details
A core pillar of the resolution is the overhaul of judicial asset declarations. Currently, Albanian law requires periodic filings, but enforcement has been inconsistent.
As per Balkanweb’s detailed breakdown, the project proposes digital platforms for real-time verification, cross-checked against tax records and property registries. Violations would trigger automatic investigations by the Special Structure Against Corruption and Organised Crime (SPAK).
Idrizi, in statements to Monitor by Frano Kolliku, explained: “Prosecutors and judges must lead by example; undeclared assets undermine the entire system.”
Implications for Albania’s European Integration
The resolution’s success could accelerate Albania’s EU timeline. Brussels has tied opening new negotiation chapters to verifiable anti-corruption progress.
Euractiv coverage by Efi Kutsokosta on 24 December 2025 linked Idrizi’s project to similar Montenegrin reforms, stating: “Albania’s move mirrors successful Balkan precedents.”
Domestically, civil society groups like the Institute for Democracy and Mediation endorsed the initiative. Director Arjan Dymnishaj, quoted in Lapsi.al by Entela Resuli, said: “Parliamentary buy-in is crucial; Idrizi’s conviction is a positive signal.”
Political Landscape and Timing
The announcement coincides with heightened pre-election rhetoric, as Albania gears up for local and potential early national polls. SP’s dominance in parliament provides leverage, but opposition scrutiny persists.
Telegrafi.com, in Kosovo-based reporting by Dritan Hoxha, observed: “Idrizi’s resolution tests SP unity on EU pledges amid regional geopolitical shifts.”
Idrizi concluded his Balkanweb interview with a call to action: “Let us prepare together so Albania stands ready for Europe.”
Ongoing Developments and Future Steps
Parliamentary committees are scheduled to review the resolution in early January 2026. SPAK has expressed readiness to collaborate, per a statement from Chief Prosecutor Altin Dumani covered by Faktograf on 27 December 2025.
Idrizi remains optimistic, telling Balkanweb: “This is our moment to shine on the European stage.”
