Financial Crime World

Assessment of Organized Crime in Albania

Key Points on Albanian Organized Crime

Albania’s organized crime landscape is characterized by complex networks and relationships with international criminal groups. Several key points highlight the scope and nature of this issue:

Criminal Groups

  • Albanian organized crime groups have established connections with Kosovar and Montenegrin crime networks.
  • They maintain a strong presence in Belgium, the Netherlands, and the UK, interacting with South and Central American crime groups.

State-Embedded Actors

  • Members of criminal groups have been appointed to political positions, indicating high-level state involvement in corrupt transactions.
  • Infiltration of the state apparatus is evident through bribery and corruption among border police.

Private Sector Actors

  • The increasing informality of the private sector fuels black market and illicit financial flows.
  • Some segments of the financial services industry demonstrate an interwoven relationship with organized crime.

Leadership and Governance

  • Political polarization and corruption remain key issues in Albania’s governance, hindering transformation and state control over its borders.

Criminal Justice and Security

  • Internal and external interference with the judicial system remains a concern.
  • Implementation of justice reform has resulted in increased backlogs and decreased technical ability, affecting efficiency.

Economic and Financial Environment

  • Albania is vulnerable to money laundering due to corruption, weak institutions, and a significant informal economy.

Civil Society and Social Protection

  • Challenges persist at the implementation level regarding support for victims of crime.
  • An integrated victim support system is lacking, putting witnesses in danger.

Conclusion

Albania faces challenges related to organized crime, including corruption, weak institutions, and a significant informal economy. These issues hinder business development, investments, and state control over its borders. Addressing these concerns requires a comprehensive approach that involves strengthening institutions, improving governance, and enhancing economic transparency.