Conflict of Interest in Albania. Regulatory Framework and Challenges to Implementation
Conflict of Interest in Albania. Regulatory Framework and Challenges to Implementation

Author(s): Arjan Dyrmishi, Marsida Çela
Subject(s): Economic policy, Social Norms / Social Control, EU-Legislation
Published by: IDM – Instituti për Demokraci dhe Ndërmjetësim
Keywords: EU Integration Process; HIDAACI High Inspectorate for the Declaration and Audit of Assets and Conflict of Interests; Public Administration
Summary/Abstract: During the last decade, Albania has been developing policies to tackle the conflict of interest as a means to fight corruption and strengthen the integrity of its institutions. These measures have been mainly driven by Albania’s efforts to meet the obligations stemming from the EU integration process and the commitments deriving from the membership in international organizations such as the Council of Europe and the United Nations. The legislation has been constantly revised over the course of the last ten years with the aim of addressing implementation deficiencies. Efforts have been made to improve implementation by adopting a number of manuals, guidelines, and other regulatory instruments. In addition, there has been a constant focus on the improvement of administrative capacities of the institutions responsible for the implementation and monitoring of the legislation. Since its establishment nearly ten years ago, the High Inspectorate of Declaration and Audit of Assets and Conflict of Interests (HIDAACI) has grown from a pilot project to a full-fledged institution. This paper argues that the broader political context has not been conducive to the adequate implementation of the adopted laws. The division of powers stipulated by the Constitution of Albania has been constantly challenged by the politics’ power struggle and the tendency of the executive branch to overshadow or minimize the role of other institutions. The public administration has been subject to constant political pressure and is far from being based on merit and fair compensation.

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