Money Laundering linked to organized crime as a priority in the EU Integration of Albania: The Role of the Albanian Parliament

by Genci GJONÇAJ

Secretary General, Parliament of Albania

Abstract
This research paper investigates the pivotal role of the Albanian Parliament in addressing money laundering linked to organized crime, positioning it as a critical priority in Albania’s European Union (EU) integration process. It aims to examine how parliamentary functions, particularly legislative, oversight and accountability, contribute to meeting the EU accession criteria with regard to the fights against money laundering of criminal activities. The paper employs qualitative research methods, relying on the collection and analysis of official documents from international institutions, academic literature, policy briefs, legal resolutions, and national legislative instruments. Findings suggest that while notable steps have been taken, including the adoption of relevant laws in line with international standards and approximation with the EU acquis in the field of money laundering, it is important to ensure consistent engagement of the Albanian Parliament in advancing the progress towards meeting EU accession criteria. The paper is limited by the availability of analyses exploring the chosen topic and the challenge of elucidating it in a limited number of words. Nonetheless, it offers valuable insight into the strengthened role of the Albanian Parliament to influence and oversight EU accession path.
Keywords: money laundering, organized crime, EU integration, international standards, Parliament, EU acquis

https://doi.org/10.58944/ockd7066