TIRANA, July 25 /ATA/ – Arben Rakipi, director of the School of Magistrates, presented the draft of Albania’s new Criminal Code, the result of years of expert work aimed at aligning the country’s legislation with EU standards.
Speaking at a presentation event, Rakipi focused on the changes to the Code, highlighting the clearer legal definitions to prevent misinterpretation, increased judicial independence, and expanded sentencing criteria to ensure fairness.
The draft also gives more weight to complementary punishments and confiscation of illicit assets, even when not mandatory by law.
For the first time, victims’ rights are given greater consideration, while juvenile justice reforms include treating some individuals up to 21 years old as minors under certain conditions, reflecting a more rehabilitative approach.
Another proposal includes conditional early release for life-sentenced prisoners, a controversial but forward-looking idea grounded in social reintegration.
According to Rakipi, the Code also introduces a gradual approach to offenses in the tax administration, allowing first offenses to be treated administratively, with criminal prosecution reserved for repeat or severe violations.
The new draft incorporates EU directives across fields such as cybercrime, environmental protection, terrorism, and financial crime. Rakipi emphasized that the code is a vital step toward Albania’s readiness for EU accession, calling for responsible debate and review by specialists.
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