During today’s plenary session, the opposition expressed concerns regarding the changes proposed by the Socialist Party to the structure of the parliamentary committees.

Taulant Balla, speaking from the Assembly’s podium, stated that this is not a new proposal. According to him, this proposal “for the first time has been submitted in full form and content and concerns a necessary transformation of the organization of the Albanian Assembly, reflecting the current needs of both the Assembly and our shared Albania.”

“In 2025, we must move beyond committee structures that in certain areas are still rooted in the People’s Assembly framework of 1988,” Balla emphasized.

Balla emphasized that “this majority led by Prime Minister Edi Rama, were elected by the Albanian people with a majority like never before in the May 11 elections, to realize our vision ‘Albania 2030 – Member of the European Union.’ For this reason, we have come forward with a proposal where the work of parliamentary committees primarily reflects the chapters and sub-chapters of the EU accession agreement, with a special focus on several areas where I believe the opposition undoubtedly has its own irreplaceable role.”

Balla replied to the opposition by affirming that their committees remain intact. He further noted that, rather than diminishing their role, the opposition has been given additional responsibilities in critical areas.

“I believe it is vital for the opposition to come to the Assembly and lead the committee related to Education. It is essential for the opposition to chair the Health Committee.
It is crucial for the opposition to chair one of the most important committees in any parliament, including the U.S. Congress — the Human Rights Committee. They haven’t had it before, as human rights used to fall under the Laws Committee. You will learn this gradually,” Balla said.

He added, “After the historic May 11 vote by the diaspora, it’s essential that the opposition be entrusted with chairing the Diaspora Committee, closely tied to cultural issues. Serving the diaspora more effectively than before and focusing on tourism are also priorities.”

Responding to concerns over the Integration Committee’s status, Balla said: “We have not dissolved the Integration Committee. Instead, Foreign Affairs and Integration have been merged into the Committee for Europe, reflecting the vision with which Edi Rama, this party, and the Socialist Party were elected.”

“Meanwhile, Europe was not part of your discourse or political engagement in the last campaign. We were elected for Europe and its affairs. Without a doubt, we want to work together with you, and you are invited to join us in achieving this historic aspiration: Albania in the European Union. If you want to be part of this, vote for the proposed changes,” Balla concluded.

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