Albania: Joint Statement by High Representative-Vice President Kallas and Commissioner Kos on the parliamentary elections

On Sunday, the people of Albania exercised their democratic right to vote, electing their representatives to the Parliament. We congratulate all the competent authorities that ensured smooth operations across the country. These elections also marked the introduction of out-of-country voting for the first time. According to the preliminary findings and conclusions of the OSCE/ODIHR Election Observation Mission, the elections were managed generally in an inclusive and transparent manner, the election day being calm and well organised, despite some shortcomings. Elections overall were competitive and professionally conducted, and candidates were generally able to campaign freely, although some reported facing intimidation. The vote however took place in a highly polarised environment, in which contestants did not enjoy a level playing field. Due to the widespread use of administrative resources and institutional leverage, it can be that the ruling majority had an advantage of incumbency. Numerous allegations were made of pressure on voters, especially public employees. Coordinated efforts to investigate and prosecute electoral crimes is a welcome development and follow-up is necessary to address persistent concerns of electoral malpractice. Media independence continues to be an issue and its electoral coverage has continued to give prominence to the main parties and transparency of campaign financing also remained limited. The EU will closely follow electoral developments until...