Progress, Challenges, and Comparative Insights regarding the Implementation of Domestic Violence Legislation in Albania

By Entela KADRIU

Abstract
This study evaluates Albania’s legislative framework addressing domestic violence, focusing on the implementation and impact of Law No. 9669 and its amendments from 2020 to 2022. It examines the systemic and cultural barriers hindering effective enforcement and aligns findings with international best practices to provide actionable insights for policy makers. A mixed-methods approach is employed, incorporating quantitative analysis of official records from the Ministry of Justice and a detailed examination of legislative texts.
The study also includes a comparative analysis of Albania’s framework with practices in Sweden, Poland, and Australia to contextualize Albania’s challenges and opportunities. The study reveals significant progress in legislative alignment with international standards, including the Istanbul Convention and CEDAW. However, enforcement gaps, resource constraints, and societal stigma undermine the framework’s effectiveness. Judicial inconsistencies, high rates of dismissed protective orders, and limited access to shelters disproportionately affect rural areas. Comparative insights highlight opportunities for Albania to enhance its response through coordinated approaches, increased funding, and public awareness campa

The analysis relies on quantitative data and lacks survivor narratives, which could provide deeper insights. The timeframe (2020–2022) limits the assessment of long term trends. Future research should incorporate longitudinal data and qualitative perspectives to complement these findings. This study bridges gaps in understanding Albania’s legislative response to domestic violence, offering a nuanced evaluation of its implementation challenges. It contributes to the global discourse on gender-based violence by situating Albania’s progress and barriers within an international framework.

Keywords: Domestic violence, Albania, gender-based violence, legislative framework, implementation, international comparisons