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| Arbëreshë legal scholar Eloisa Baffa identified a legal gap in Albania's citizenship law, leading to a reform that strengthens the rights of foreign spouses of Albanian citizens living abroad. |
According to an article published in the Italian press, Baffa identified a legal gap in Law No. 113/2020, which reportedly failed to provide specific protection for foreign spouses of Albanian citizens residing outside Albania.
Drawing on her legal expertise, Baffa engaged with Albanian institutions over an extended period, advocating for legislative changes. Her efforts reportedly reached a key moment during the Summit of the Albanian Diaspora, held in Tirana from 13 to 15 April, where she presented the legal issue directly to government officials and political representatives.
The newspaper reports that the legislative amendment, promoted by Albanian MP Taulant Balla, eliminated the identified gap through changes to Law No. 48/2026. According to the report, the reform introduces legal protections for foreign spouses of Albanians living abroad, addressing an issue that had remained unresolved for years.
Supporters have described the amendment as an important step for the Albanian diaspora, saying it provides long-awaited legal certainty for mixed-nationality families and aligns more closely with international legal standards concerning civil rights.
Baffa's work has been celebrated by members of the Arbëreshë community in Italy, who have praised her determination, legal competence, and commitment to preserving and supporting the rights of Albanians abroad.
The recognition has also been seen as an example of the important role that professionals from the Arbëreshë community continue to play in strengthening ties between Italy and Albania while contributing to legal and institutional development.