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 prosecutions now unfolding are unprecedented in scale. A former president has been indicted on multiple charges, including corruption, money laundering, tax evasion, and concealing assets. His spouse also faces allegations, highlighting the breadth of the inquiry. Meanwhile, the leader of the main opposition party—himself a former prime minister and president—has begun standing trial on accusations of abusing power for private gain, linked to high-value property deals in the capital. These cases are among the first where the nation’s most influential political figures face the prospect of significant prison sentences, breaking with a history in which top officials were rarely held accountable.
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.
Although there have been improvements, certain obstacles persist. Investigations still highlight the presence of systemic corruption in different levels of government and the corporate sector. Local governments, procurement systems, and public services are still at risk of unlawful activities. Transparency in government bodies is frequently lacking, and the application of anti-corruption policies is inconsistent. Experts emphasize the importance of significant cultural transformation, enhanced protection for whistleblowers, and sustained political determination across political parties for reforms to be sustained.
Beyond legal actions, Albania is striving to integrate anti-corruption measures within its wider governmental frameworks. The government has revised its national strategy to better define institutional responsibilities, enhance supervision, and boost inter-agency collaboration. Educational initiatives for public sector workers and judiciary personnel are being broadened, and universities along with legal bodies are adding courses aimed at instilling professional ethics and enhancing integrity standards for future officials.
For many Albanians, the sight of once-untouchable leaders facing judges marks a dramatic turning point. Citizens who had long grown accustomed to the idea that powerful figures could act with impunity now see evidence that institutions are gaining the strength to hold them accountable. The test ahead lies in ensuring that these steps are not temporary or politically selective, but rather part of a lasting transformation of Albania’s justice system.
The path is far from complete. Yet the actions taken so far—criminal prosecutions, institutional investment, and international collaboration—are building momentum. As Albania continues its European integration process, the credibility of this anti-corruption drive will remain a central factor. What is at stake is not only the country’s political future but also the trust of its citizens in the promise of a fair and accountable state.