Threats to Human Rights in Albania

Statement by the International Helsinki Federation for Human Rights and the Albanian Helsinki Committee

Tirana, Vienna, 17 March 2006.  The new government of Albania, which took office in September 2005, launched rigorous legal and institutional reforms to address widespread corruption and organized crime. While many of its initiatives were welcomed by civil society, others raise human rights concerns and question the government’s commitment to the rule of law.

In the implementation of its anti-corruption program, the government has on several occasions violated constitutional rights and freedoms. For example, it proposed to limit the immunity of members of parliament without amending constitutional provisions guaranteeing immunity, and to exclude employment in public administration, customs and tax authority positions virtually any relatives of authorities already holding high positions in government or public administration. Moreover, it appears that a number of state employees have been dismissed following procedures that lack transparency.

Government officials have publicly implicated individuals in corruption before their cases have been investigated and tried, possibly violating the right to be considered innocent until proven guilty in a fair trial.

In addition, the government has proposed amendments to legislation on state secrets that, if adopted, could seriously limit access to information of public importance or interest.

Also, the government has failed to promptly propose changes to the election code despite the fact that the recent elections have continued to fall short of international standards.  The IHF and AHC urge the government to respond to relevant recommendations submitted by Organization for Cooperation and Security and Europe (OSCE).

The IHF and AHC acknowledge that the Albanian government made it a priority to combat corruption and organized crime, but we are concerned about the means used, some of which violate Albania’s international commitments. Careful adherence to those standards and transparent cooperation with civil society will ensure that the rights of all are respected.

For more information:

International Helsinki Federation for Human Rights,         Aaron Rhodes, Executive Director, +43-1-4088822

                                                                                    Henriette Schroeder, +43-676-725 4829

Albanian Helsinki Committee, Vasilika Hysi, Executive Director, +355-4-233 671