On 17-18 November 2022, the Action against Economic Crime in Albania, a joint initiative of the European Union and Council of Europe, in cooperation with the School of Magistrate in Albania organised the training on “Financial analytics and use of open-source investigations”. 27 prosecutors, investigators and judicial police officers from the Special Prosecution Office against Corruption and Organised Crime, General Prosecution Office and National Bureau of Investigation took part in this event. 

The aim of this training was to enhance the knowledge, understanding and skills of the participants to apply appropriate tools and techniques for financial investigation, including analysis of financial data and effective use of open-source intelligence. 

Three Council of Europe experts shared their experience and knowledge about the international standards and good practices in this area focusing on planning a financial investigation, building an investigation strategy having in mind some important considerations such as the scope of investigation, the international aspects, the respect for human rights standards and prioritizing the use of appropriate investigation techniques. During the discussions with participants, the experts highlighted the role of open-source information and other sources to be used in developing intelligence to support an effective financial investigation. In addition, the participants discussed the direct and indirect methods of proof and use of electronic evidence on proving financial gain, which is a key component of financial investigation. 

The cooperation with the School of Magistrate provided the local insight on the implementation of the Albanian legislation and practical challenges that Albanian law enforcement agencies face in using open-source intelligence tools and techniques for effective investigation of financial crimes. 

The Action against Economic Crime in Albania is part of the “Horizontal Facility for the Western Balkans and Turkey II”, a joint programme of the European Union and Council of Europe, which aims at assisting beneficiaries in the Western Balkans region and Turkey to comply with the Council of Europe standards and European Union acquis in the framework of the enlargement process.