Tirana economist Ardian Hackaj has stated that the European Union often focuses its assessment of candidate countries on certain political figures or cases, rather than solely on institutional standards.
In a conversation on the "PIKË" podcast with publicist Veton Surroi, Hackaj commented on discussions about Albania's integration process into the European Union and issues related to the rule of law and the fight against corruption.
Surroi said that in European circles the name of socialist MP and former minister Belinda Balluku has become "synonymous with Albania", adding that countries like the Netherlands, France and Germany are looking for concrete evidence that no one is above the law. Balluku is being investigated on corruption charges, but the Albanian Parliament voted not to lift her immunity after SPAK's request.
"Albania does not comply with IBAR, it cannot move forward unless it clearly proves that some people are not more vulnerable than others," Surroi said.
Meanwhile, Hackaj expressed his agreement with the idea that politicians should pave the way for justice when faced with suspicions, but emphasized that this remains more of an ethical issue than a legal obligation.
"On the other hand, this sometimes also shows the EU's focus on proper nouns. It's very easy to understand and bring to the table," he stated.
In the debate, Hackaj also raised the question of what would happen if the Albanian parliament accepted a new request from SPAK to lift Balluk's immunity.
"Then what? Does IBAR open automatically?" he asked.
t7 live
