Latest Analysis from Albania
Funding Reform Leaves Albanian Arts in Limbo
As the third law on arts funding in 20 years struggles to be implemented, dilemmas about the public financing of festivals and arts events seem no nearer a solution.
Socialist Sees Red Over Albania’s Centennial
While the government unveils a list of events to mark the day, one MP says they are not delivering what they promised and have deliberately sidelined the town where independent Albania was born.
Albania’s Nationalists Corner Market in Graffiti
Graffiti in most countries is part of the artistic weaponry of the rebellious, leftwing counter-culture – but not in Albania, where so far it’s mainly being used to send nationalist messages.
Regulation Row Freezes Investment in Albania Power
An executive from CEZ Shperndarje, Albania’s largest power utility, says disputes over a regulatory framework are blocking release of a key investment loan in the dilapidated power grid.
Privatizing Albanian Castles Worries Heritage Experts
Historians and archeologists oppose plans to let entrepreneurs turn ancient monuments into bars, cafés and motels.
Foes Reunite after Albania Corruption Scandal
A political feud with more twists than a Hollywood thriller has ended happily for the main protagonists – but ordinary Albanians feel less delighted with what they have discovered about their political bosses.
Tough Prosecutor Shakes Albania’s Establishment
Ina Rama’s impressive showing on a pro-government TV show has wowed critics and has inspired talk of her a model stateswoman.
Albania’s Small Parties Seek Say on Poll Reform
As Socialists and Democrats attempt to hammer out a deal on improving Albania’s flawed election system, smaller parties say a two-party stitch-up won’t change matters for the better.
Greek Crisis Turns Albanian Thoughts to Home
The economic turmoil in Greece is forcing the million or so Albanians who have made it their home over the past few decades to consider their options.
Tirana Film Fest Faces Oblivion
With a dwindling budget Tirana’s International Film Festival closed its ninth edition facing a struggle for survival.
Albania: Political Détente May End in Tears
After peace broke out between the big parties late this year, the question is whether the Berisha-Rama honeymoon can survive the challenges ahead, including the election of a new president.
Drive For Balkan Extradition Deal Nears End
Serbia’s initiative to establish a pan-Balkan extradition treaty may see lift-off next year - but Kosovo’s exclusion from the scheme looks like another politically driven error.
Albania: A Year to Forget
Street protests, an alleged coup, yet another disputed election and fresh corruption scandals marked another stagnant year in Albania.
Hard Times Ahead For Crisis-Hit Balkans
A conjunction of local issues and the impact of the crisis in the eurozone have clouded the economic and political outlook for the whole region.
PM Blamed for Albanian Miscarriages of Justice
A notorious crime gang appears to have escaped justice as a result of Sali Berisha’s politicization of its trial.
