Fair Elections and European Integration in Albania’s 2025 Parliamentary Elections: Education, Minority Inclusion, and Democratic Challenges

by Ador KOCIRAJ

Università Cattolica del Sacro Cuore

Abstract
Albania’s May 2025 parliamentary elections the first since the country opened European Union (EU) accession negotiations represent a crucial test of democratic consolidation and European integration. This paper examines how electoral reforms and enduring challenges will shape the fairness of the 2025 vote, and how education, youth engagement, and minority inclusion factor into Albania’s democratic trajectory. A qualitative analysis of legal reforms, election observation reports, survey data, and media discourse reveals both progress and persistent issues. Notable reforms (such as diaspora voting rights and partially open candidate lists) indicate responsiveness to past criticisms, but problems like vote-buying, abuse of state resources, and opposition fragmentation continue to threaten election integrity. Voter turnout has declined to under half of the electorate, reflecting public apathy—especially among disillusioned youth. Meanwhile, ethnic minorities have stronger legal protections on paper yet remain underrepresented in politics, raising questions about alignment with European standards. The study also highlights the role of media and public discourse in shaping citizens’ perceptions of election legitimacy, European integration, and the value of political participation. Ultimately, while EU conditionality has driven some democratic reforms, domestic political will and societal engagement will determine whether the 2025 elections become a turning point toward deeper democracy or entrench Albania’s challenges.

Keywords: Albania; Parliamentary Elections; European Integration; Youth Participation; Minority Inclusion; Media and Public Discourse

https://doi.org/10.58944/rdhj8177