“Drafting a Criminal Procedure Code ranks among a country’s most important undertakings. It defines how authorities collect evidence, conduct questioning, restrict freedom and enforce criminal penalties,” said Gianluca Esposito, Director General for Human Rights and the Rule of Law at the Council of Europe.

Speaking at a meeting in Tirana today, Esposito discussed the New Guarantees Package for the Criminal Procedure Code. He stressed that the code also plays a key role in establishing the truth and protecting victims. In turn, these safeguards help maintain public trust in the justice system.

“The effectiveness of the fight against crime does not depend on how many people take part. Instead, it depends on the measures that authorities take,” Esposito said.

Esposito noted that the Criminal Procedure Code draws on European conventions. These conventions set standards and responsibilities for criminal justice systems. In addition, he said the Council of Europe has supported the process in recent months at the request of the Prime Minister. The organization has helped bring the draft closer to European standards.

Esposito also praised the work on the new package. He said the process addresses a range of important issues. At the same time, it reflects a commitment to incorporate European standards into criminal legislation. According to Esposito, the draft balances the reform package with European standards. It also strengthens the rights and protections of accused persons. Furthermore, he said the process demonstrates the commitment of Albanian institutions to align the justice system with European Union directives and broader European standards.

“A good criminal code should help prevent violations. It should also support fair and lawful justice. As the Council of Europe, we will continue to support you whenever needed. We are pleased with the progress so far, particularly as Albania now moves toward publishing the draft Criminal Procedure Code,” Esposito said.