OSCE/ODIHR Report: Albania’s 2025 Parliamentary Elections Competitive but Marked by Deep Polarization

 The final report of the OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) on Albania’s May 11, 2025 parliamentary elections provides a nuanced assessment of the country’s democratic process. While the elections were described as competitive and professionally managed, the mission concluded that they took place in a highly polarized political environment, with unequal opportunities among contestants and the ruling party benefiting from administrative resources.

One of the OSCE/ODIHR inspectors inspecting a ballot box in Tirana

The observation mission, led by Ambassador Lamberto Zannier, consisted of 12 core experts based in Tirana and 26 long-term observers deployed across the country. The mission remained in Albania from early April until May 22, closely monitoring both pre- and post-election developments.

A Positive Election Day, but Concerns Over Voter Pressure

According to ODIHR, election day proceeded calmly and transparently in most areas, with the voting process rated positively in 95% of observed polling stations. However, the report also pointed out procedural shortcomings, cases of intimidation, and pressure on voters, especially among public sector employees.

The introduction of out-of-country voting (OCV), implemented for the first time in Albania’s history, was praised as a significant step toward inclusion of the diaspora, despite logistical challenges and the late adoption of enabling legislation.

Unequal Campaign Conditions and Media Bias

One of the report’s key findings highlights the unfair advantage of the ruling party, which allegedly misused state resources and blurred the line between official duties and campaign activities. The report also noted accusations of vote buying, intimidation, and misuse of administrative influence during the campaign.

Media coverage was another major concern. ODIHR found that media ownership concentration and self-censorship among journalists undermined pluralism and limited voters’ ability to make an informed choice. The two main political parties dominated airtime, and campaign coverage often lacked balance.

Despite these challenges, candidates were generally able to campaign freely, and the election administration managed the process transparently and efficiently.

Technological Advances and Legal Gaps

For the 2025 elections, biometric voter identification was used nationwide, while electronic voting was piloted in two districts. ODIHR praised the transparency of the Central Election Commission (CEC) in managing the technology, but noted concerns over deviations from documented procedures and lack of public disclosure of security tests.

While the legal framework was deemed adequate for democratic elections, it still requires a comprehensive reform to address inconsistencies and outdated provisions. Many of ODIHR’s longstanding recommendations remain unimplemented, particularly those concerning campaign finance transparency, depoliticization of election commissions, and media fairness.

Institutional Cooperation and Legal Enforcement

For the first time, Albania’s Special Anti-Corruption Structure (SPAK) played an active role in monitoring election-related offenses, creating a dedicated task force and online reporting platform for electoral crimes. By May 10, SPAK had initiated 39 criminal proceedings out of 138 reported cases, mainly related to passive and active corruption.

The coordination between SPAK, the CEC, and the Prosecutor General’s Office was commended as a positive institutional development that should be strengthened further in future elections.

ODIHR’s 25 Recommendations: Path Toward Reform

In its final assessment, the OSCE/ODIHR mission issued 25 recommendations aimed at improving future electoral processes in Albania. Among the most urgent priorities were:

► Comprehensive electoral reform through inclusive consultations, well ahead of the next elections.

► Depoliticization of lower-level election commissions and preventing last-minute replacements of members.

► Training standardization for counting groups and polling staff.

► Enhanced voter education on electronic and biometric voting.

► Strict prohibition of administrative resource misuse during campaigns.

► Clear campaign finance regulations, ensuring equal competition.

► Balanced media coverage and the decriminalization of defamation to protect freedom of expression.

Further recommendations emphasized ensuring accessibility for persons with disabilities, gender balance in election commissions, and transparent decision-making regarding the use of election technologies.  

Democracy Tested, Reforms Still Needed

Overall, ODIHR’s final report paints a picture of progress mixed with persistent challenges. The elections demonstrated organizational improvements and the introduction of modern voting technologies, but systemic issues of political polarization, administrative influence, and limited media independence continue to hinder full democratic consolidation.

The OSCE/ODIHR reiterated its willingness to assist Albanian authorities in implementing its recommendations, stressing that genuine political will and inclusive dialogue will be essential for future progress.

As Albania continues its path toward EU integration, these findings underscore the importance of strengthening institutional trust, depoliticizing governance, and ensuring equal opportunities for all political actors.