A pivotal multi-stakeholder workshop held in Tirana marked significant progress in the development of a comprehensive legal framework for lobbying in Albania.

Organised under the joint European Union and Council of Europe Action against Economic Crime in Albania, in partnership with the Ministrer of State for Public Administration and Anti-Corruption, the workshop convened key institutional representatives to initiate dialogue and lay the groundwork for a new Law on Lobbying. This legislative initiative is one of the main priorities of the Cross-Cutting Anti-Corruption Strategy 2024–2030.

During the workshop, participants were presented with a detailed legal review developed through Council of Europe expertise. The review provided tailored recommendations to align Albania’s future lobbying legislation with Council of Europe standards and international best practices.

Attendees engaged in constructive discussions addressing crucial elements of the proposed legislation, including clear definitions of lobbying, lobbyists, and related processes; establishing a clear distinction between legitimate lobbying and unlawful influence; clarifying the roles and responsibilities of lobbyists and public officials; and ensuring harmonisation with existing laws to facilitate effective implementation.

This workshop represents a foundational step towards formalising lobbying regulation in Albania in accordance with international standards, promoting greater transparency and accountability in public decision-making.

The event was organised by the Action against Economic Crime in Albania, as part of the joint European Union/Council of Europe programme Horizontal Facility for the Western Balkans and Türkiye.