TIRANA, Jan 21 /ATA/ Minister of Justice Besfort Lamallari presented a comprehensive package of amendments to the Criminal Code today at the Parliamentary Law Committee, describing it as a strategic reform aimed at strengthening the rule of law, enhancing public safety, and fulfilling Albania’s obligations in the European accession process.
In his speech, the minister emphasized that the draft law is not merely a technical intervention, but the result of a thorough analysis of real issues on the ground and full alignment with European Union standards, within the framework of Chapter 24 of the negotiations, “Justice, Freedom, and Security.”
According to the minister, the amendments align Albania’s penal legislation with seven key EU instruments, strengthening the fight against money laundering, narcotics trafficking, human beings trafficking, terrorism, child sexual exploitation, and the protection of the European Union’s financial interests. The package also extends Albania’s criminal jurisdiction to include offenses committed outside the country’s territory and enhances the effectiveness of prosecuting serious and cross-border crimes.
Special focus has been given to safeguarding children and vulnerable groups by increasing penalties for sexual offenses, extending the statute of limitations, and prohibiting the practice of professions involving direct contact with minors. Furthermore, the proposal ensures that minor victims are treated in accordance with the highest standards of protection.
In the fight against human trafficking, the draft law stipulates a zero-tolerance policy towards exploitation, excluding the victim’s consent as a justifying factor, and criminalizing the use of services provided by trafficking victims.
The amendments also focus on the protection of territory and public interests, by increasing penalties for unlawful land occupation, unapproved construction, and illegal exploitation, particularly in protected areas, cultural heritage sites, and critical infrastructure, especially when these offences are committed by public officials. Additionally, the legal framework is strengthened with regard to arson in forests and natural landscapes.
Another key innovation concerns public safety, where second line parking is treated as a criminal offence when it seriously obstructs traffic and emergency vehicles. Simultaneously, the draft law strengthens the protection of journalists and press freedom by exempting journalists who act in good faith and in the public interest from criminal liability, while increasing penalties for violence and threats against them.
In conclusion, the Minister described the package as a bold and indispensable reform, designed not only to address the punishment of criminal activity but also to focus on its prevention and the assurance of public safety, thereby establishing a modern penal system fully in line with European standards.
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