Albanian Criminal Networks Linked to Kosovar and Montenegrin Organizations

A complex network of Albanian criminal organizations has been linked to similar groups in Kosovo and Montenegro, according to a new report. The groups have a strong presence in Belgium, the Netherlands, and the UK, among other countries.

Socio-Economic Factors Contribute to Youth Involvement

• A lack of employment and education opportunities in Albania is driving youth involvement in criminal operations.
• Many young people are being drawn into the criminal underworld, taking on various roles within the organizations.

Criminal Networks Involved in Drug Trafficking and Human Smuggling

• The Albanian criminal networks are heavily involved in drug trafficking, particularly the cannabis trade.
  • They often pose as legal businesses, with different members responsible for specific tasks such as securing, transporting, and distributing drugs.
• Additionally, the groups have been linked to human smuggling operations, taking advantage of temporary and occasional opportunities to transport people across borders.

Corruption and Weak Institutions Hamper Law Enforcement

• Widespread corruption within the Albanian government and law enforcement agencies makes it difficult for authorities to effectively combat organized crime.
• The lack of effective institutions and weak rule of law also contributes to the persistence of criminal activity.

Victim Support Services Lag Behind

• The report criticizes the lack of support services for victims of crime in Albania, including medical, psychological, and social assistance.
• The country lacks an integrated victim support system, making it difficult for victims to access necessary help.

Civil Society Plays a Crucial Role

• Despite the challenges faced by Albanian authorities, civil society organizations have been playing a crucial role in providing aid and support to vulnerable groups, including trafficking victims.
• However, the report notes that civil society engagement in countering organized crime remains limited, with many organizations dependent on external donors for funding.
• The media landscape is also restricted, with few outlets enjoying financial and editorial independence.

New Action Plans Aim to Combat Organized Crime

• Albania has adopted new action plans and strategies, including awareness-raising campaigns and initiatives aimed at engaging citizens in preventing criminal activity.
• However, the report concludes that more needs to be done to address the root causes of organized crime, including poverty, corruption, and weak institutions.