TIRANA, March 11 – Albania reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening women’s access during the General Debate of the 70th Session of the UN Commission on the Status of Women.

From the UN General Assembly hall, Minister of Health and Social Protection, Evis Sala, highlighted Albania’s ongoing efforts to advance gender equality through justice reform, stronger legislation, and increased women’s representation in decision-making.

She noted that gender-sensitive justice starts with robust laws that guarantee equality and prohibit discrimination, but these rights gain full meaning only when women and girls can rely on institutions that are accessible, accountable, and responsive to their needs.

Sala emphasized the expansion of access to justice mechanisms, including a significant increase in the free legal aid system, where women represent the majority of beneficiaries, and the nationwide operation of a coordinated referral mechanism for addressing gender-based violence.

She acknowledged that justice reform has also brought transitional challenges, including prolonged court procedures and court reorganization, and stressed that ensuring comprehensive access to justice, particularly for women in rural areas and vulnerable groups, remains a priority.

Sala concluded that as Albania advances on its European path, ensuring that the justice and governance systems serve women and men equally will remain central to democratic development.

Albania will continue strengthening reform implementation through institutional capacity building, legal education, and close cooperation with international partners, including UN agencies and civil society organizations.

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