Albania demonstrated the most significant progress in the region over the last 12 months since the publication of the previous European Commission report.

Based on the evaluation comparison within the progress report concerning the overall situation in the covered areas across chapters and topics, Albania has accumulated a total of 36 credits.

The region’s highest rate of progress within a year concerning preparations for EU accession is led by Serbia, followed by North Macedonia with 29 credits, Montenegro with 25 credits, and subsequently Kosovo and Bosnia-Herzegovina.

The progress measure has been consolidated with other assessments, based on which the European Commission has proposed the initiation of the chapters in the first group. The European Council will deliberate on this matter and express its decision in December.

One of the most influential indicators, notably distinct from the regional levels, is deemed to be the functioning of the judiciary, having earned 5 out of 6 possible credits for progress during this year.

In the same document assessing the progress on issues outlined in the first chapter of EU membership talks, Albania is credited with 40 points, ranking behind Montenegro and North Macedonia, both of which have obtained 44 points each.

Serbia, despite having commenced negotiations and opening chapters for years, is ranked below Albania in the European evaluation. The ongoing negotiation process has not elevated Serbia’s position higher than Albania in the European assessment.

Regarding the country’s readiness for initiating negotiations, the highest grade, once again, is 5 out of 6, particularly for the presence of a functioning market economy.

/m.ll/