New Penal Code: Independent and inclusive process, no cause for alarm

Recent reactions from journalist associations calling for urgent intervention in the New Penal Code draft reflect a misunderstanding of the ongoing process.

It has been clearly stated by the Minister of Justice that neither the Ministry of Justice nor the Council of Ministers were involved in drafting the initial version. The task was entrusted to an independent group of experts led by Professor Arben Rakipi, Director of the School of Magistrates.

At this stage, the government is just one of the participants in the consultation process. The current draft is under review, and all opinions—including those of the government—will be analyzed alongside the experts’ views. Journalist associations are encouraged to contribute constructively rather than raising premature alarms.

The process is open, democratic, and transparent. All stakeholders, including justice system actors, civil society, and media, are invited to review the draft and submit responsible, well-argued opinions. This is the proper path toward building a modern penal code aligned with the expectations of a country aiming to integrate into the European Union.

After this consultation phase, the Ministry of Justice will submit the revised draft for consultation with the European Commission. Without Brussels’ approval and consent, the draft cannot proceed to Parliament.

In this regard, all actors are urged to remain calm and seriously contribute to this crucial process for the future of the rule of law in Albania. The new penal code is not a threat to freedoms but an opportunity for improvement and alignment with European standards. Albania is moving toward the European Union—not back to past models.

“KORÇA BOOM”