During her official visit to the southeastern Albanian city of Korça on November 10, the French Ambassador to Albania, Catherine Suard, placed strong emphasis on human rights, non-discrimination, and gender equality—principles she described as the “core of European and French diplomacy.”
Speaking to journalists, Ambassador Suard commented on Albania’s law on gender equality and the broader context of democratic reforms required for European Union integration. Her remarks underscored that genuine progress cannot be achieved through legislation alone but through the consistent application of values that protect every citizen’s dignity and opportunity.
Human Rights: The Foundation of the European Union
“Human rights and the principle of non-discrimination are not just legal texts; they are the foundation of the European project,” said Suard. “Equality between men and women, respect for minorities, and protection from discrimination are essential values that define who we are as Europeans.”
The ambassador emphasized that France and the European Union share a unified approach to safeguarding these rights, with both nations considering them integral to social stability, democracy, and sustainable development.
In a country like Albania—where reforms are ongoing in the fields of justice, governance, and human rights—Suard’s words carried a powerful message of encouragement. She praised the Albanian government’s progress while also noting that laws must be implemented effectively to produce real change.
Gender Equality as a Measure of Democratic Maturity
One of the key themes of the ambassador’s address was gender equality, which she described as both a political and cultural challenge that requires commitment at all levels of society.
“Gender equality is not only about numbers or representation—it is about the effective participation of women in all areas of life: politics, economy, and civil society,” Suard stated.
She pointed out that the European Union’s values are rooted in inclusiveness, and Albania’s path toward EU membership will be judged not only by its institutional reforms but also by its social transformation—particularly in terms of women’s empowerment and equal opportunities.
Albania has made notable progress in recent years: women now represent a significant portion of the Albanian Parliament, and more women occupy key leadership positions in local government and civil service. However, as the ambassador noted, challenges remain in ensuring equal access to economic resources, decision-making, and protection from gender-based violence.
Beyond Legislation: The Challenge of Implementation
Ambassador Suard cautioned that the passage of laws is only the first step in creating an equitable society. She highlighted the importance of enforcement, transparency, and accountability in guaranteeing that rights are not merely theoretical.
“Beyond legal texts, these reforms and laws must be applied,” she said. “The way in which these norms are implemented—by institutions, by local authorities, and by economic actors—is crucial. There is still much work to be done in this direction.”
Her remarks reflect a broader European concern that while many countries adopt progressive legislation, the practical implementation often lags behind. For Albania, she noted, maintaining momentum in reform is essential not only for EU accession but also for building public trust and fostering equality.
France’s Continued Support for Albania
Ambassador Suard reaffirmed France’s commitment to supporting Albania on its journey toward full EU integration. France, she said, stands ready to provide technical and institutional support to strengthen Albania’s human rights framework and help the country meet European standards.
“I am confident that Albania is capable of achieving its goals,” Suard declared. “We are here to support and accompany the country in this demanding but rewarding path. Everyone—politicians, institutions, and citizens—has a role to play.”
Her visit to Korça and her strong focus on equality underscore France’s ongoing diplomatic engagement with Albania, particularly in promoting inclusive development, social justice, and human dignity.
A Shared European Vision
Human rights and gender equality are not only European Union requirements—they are the cornerstones of a shared European identity, Suard concluded. Her message resonates deeply in Albania, a nation that has made steady progress in strengthening its democracy but still faces the challenge of translating reform into everyday reality.
The ambassador’s speech in Korça served as a reminder that the true measure of progress lies not in the existence of laws, but in how those laws transform people’s lives—ensuring equality, fairness, and respect for all citizens.