Corruption as a Threat to National Security in Albania: An Analysis of 2018-2020

By Aderaldo MEMA PhD (c), Prishila HYSA PhD (c)

Abstract
This paper explores the impact of corruption on Albania’s national security during the period 2018-2020, aiming to understand how corruption undermines democratic institutions, social stability, and the country’s integration into Euro-Atlantic structures. The purpose of this study is to examine the direct correlation between corruption levels and national security outcomes, such as political instability, organized crime, and the efficiency of law enforcement.
The research adopts a mixedmethods approach, combining qualitative data from reports and documents with quantitative analysis of corruption indices, political stability indicators, and security metrics. The study finds that high levels of corruption have significantly weakened Albania’s institutional frameworks, hindered judicial reforms, and contributed to a decline in public trust in the government. Furthermore, the persistent corruption has delayed Albania’s progress toward European Union integration, which has national security implications. The originality of this paper lies in its comprehensive analysis of how corruption directly affects Albania’s security and stability, presenting empirical evidence that links governance issues to broader national security concerns. The paper contributes to existing literature by proposing actionable policy recommendations aimed at reducing corruption, improving institutional transparency, and enhancing the country’s security capacity in Albania’s context. The findings emphasize the importance of judicial reform, civic engagement, and international cooperation in addressing corruption and strengthening Albania’s national security.
Keywords: Corruption, National Security, Albania, Justice Reform, Transparency, Euro – Atlantic Integration