Council of Europe Programme Coordination Director Claus Neukirch said reforms supported by the Horizontal Facility are bringing Albania closer to European standards and the European Union. He made the remarks in an interview with the Albanian news agency (ATSH) in Tirana.

Neukirch highlighted support for judicial efficiency, property rights, the fight against corruption, journalist safety and minority rights. He said the programme has helped more than 2,700 people verify their property rights. It has also supported a digital asset register and mechanisms to recover assets linked to criminal activity.

Meanwhile, the programme has helped the State Police improve protocols for cases involving threats against journalists. It has also supported legislation protecting minority rights and police protocols for investigating hate crimes and discrimination.

Neukirch said Council of Europe standards have a direct link to Albania’s European Union integration process. He noted that meeting obligations under the European Convention on Human Rights can help Albania advance negotiations, particularly on the fundamental chapters. He described the Horizontal Facility as a joint European Union and Council of Europe partnership supporting reforms in line with European standards and conventions.

/a.p./