Key partners of the project Strengthening the Capacities of the Albanian Judiciary to Better Apply Standards on the Right to Liberty and Security gathered in Tirana in the second Steering Committee meeting, to review progress and shape future priorities.

The project team provided an overview of achievements to date, including support for legislative review, enhanced capacities of magistrates and other justice professionals, as well as increased awareness among students and justice professionals on standards relating to the right to liberty and security. “First and foremost, the project’s main achievement in this first year of implementation has been the space for discussion it has fostered within the justice system, independent institutions and policy makers on the application of security measures, particularly on pre-trial detention” underlined the Giulia Re - Head of the Council of Europe Office in Tirana.

Looking ahead, participants reviewed the upcoming initiatives, designed to support stakeholders in addressing challenges and fostering systemic change.

The Steering Committee members representing various justice institutions, engaged in active exchanges, offering valuable feedback and insights on the project’s priorities. Participants made several suggestions to ensure the effectiveness and sustainability of foreseen interventions, underlining the importance of addressing practical challenges and strengthening ongoing efforts.

During the meeting, the participants underlined their commitment to advance continued collaboration, recognising its importance in the efforts to build a better equipped judiciary to uphold the right to liberty and security in Albania.

The project is funded by the Human Rights Trust Fund (HRTF), which brings together eight Council of Europe member states: Finland, Germany, Ireland, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Norway, Switzerland, United Kingdom.