Albania ranks 20th worldwide for the lowest level of strategic threats to peace and democracy, according to the 2025 Normandy Index by the European Parliamentary Research Service.

Notably, the country climbed six positions compared to 2024. As a result, the report highlights clear and sustained progress.

Overall, Albania demonstrates a steady path toward political, economic, and institutional consolidation. Since the early 1990s, deep reforms have transformed the state and society.

Moreover, the opening of EU accession negotiations in March 2020 confirms strong government commitment and marks tangible progress on the European agenda.

At the same time, the report identifies Albania as a model of religious tolerance and coexistence. Importantly, this rare regional value supports long-term social and political stability.

Economically, indicators show clear improvement. GDP growth rose from 2.1% in 2019 to 3.9% in 2024. Meanwhile, public debt fell from 74.1% in 2021 to 54.7% in 2024. Together, these trends signal stronger financial management and a positive outlook.

In parallel, Albania strengthened the rule of law and international cooperation. In particular, cooperation with Eurojust stands out. Albania is one of 11 non-EU countries with a liaison prosecutor, underscoring firm commitment to fighting crime and strengthening justice.

Furthermore, electoral and democratic processes improved steadily. Local elections on May 14, 2023 were well administered. Subsequently, parliamentary elections on May 11, 2025 proved competitive and professionally managed. Consequently, institutions show growing maturity.

In its 2025 progress report, the European Commission praised Albania’s political dedication to EU integration. Additionally, it welcomed Albania’s full alignment with the EU’s common foreign and security policy, including sanctions against Russia. Therefore, Albania stands out as a reliable and responsible partner.

Following this, the official opening of accession negotiations in 2022 and their advancement through intergovernmental conferences marked historic milestones. As the region’s largest EU assistance beneficiary, Albania uses this support to strengthen institutions, the economy, and the rule of law.

Today, Albania presents a clear European vision. With increased stability and strong development potential, the country offers a positive example for the Balkans.

However, the report also highlights challenges. Political polarization remains the main risk to democratic processes.

Afterward, economic crises rank as the second-largest risk, followed by cybersecurity threats and climate change.

Finally, the Normandy Index assesses strategic threats to peace and democracy worldwide. It focuses on political stability, security, democratic performance, and internal and external pressures. The index debuted at the Global Forum for Peace in Normandy in June 2019, through a partnership between the European Parliament and the Normandy Region.

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