Statement by H.E. Eglantina Gjermeni, Ambassador, Permanent Representative

in response to the  Report by the Director of the Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR)

Meeting 1558 of the Permanent Council, 18 March 2026, Vienna

 

Thank you, Mr. Chairperson,

Dear colleagues,

Dear Director Telalian,

We commend ODIHR’s 2025 Annual Report, which provides a timely and comprehensive overview of its work in strengthening democracy, human rights and the rule of law across the OSCE area. In a context of growing polarization, shrinking civic space and evolving digital challenges, these pillars remain central to our shared security.

Election observation, legislative support and human rights monitoring remain at the core of ODIHR’s work and continue to be indispensable. Through its work ODIHR have strengthened electoral processes, enhanced human rights protections, and supported civil society through OSCE region.

ODIHR provides transparent, impartial and evidence based assessments to support democratic processes. Upholding democratic institutions, protecting fundamental freedoms, combating discrimination and promoting inclusive political participation, particularly for women and youth remain essential. Increased attention to the digital dimension of democracy, including online campaigning, disinformation and emerging technologies, is equally important. Continued support to Ukraine, including the monitoring and documentation of human rights violations under extremely challenging circumstances, represents a critical contribution of ODIHR’s work.

Albania remains a firm supporter of ODIHR’s mandate. This work must be carried out free from political pressure, restrictions or interference. At a time of mounting challenges to democratic values and human rights defenders, such independence is indispensable.

Albania’s cooperation with ODIHR continues to play a direct role in advancing our democratic reforms. Its engagement with the Albanian Parliament has been instrumental in translating gender commitments under the Beijing Platform for Action into concrete measures. Strengthening women’s political representation remains a clear national priority, guided by our Gender Equality National Strategy 2021–2030.

ODIHR’s recommendations are central to Albania’s ongoing electoral reform process. Our focus remains on building a legal framework that delivers genuinely free, fair and transparent elections in full alignment with OSCE commitments. Continued support, including through the regional programme on electoral reforms in the Western Balkans, is therefore of particular importance.

We welcome the upcoming ODIHR visit to Tirana that will provide an opportunity to discuss with all relevant actors the report’s findings, identify areas for further cooperation, and advance the implementation of its recommendations.

Beyond elections, Albania sees clear added value in deepening cooperation with ODIHR on parliamentary reform, judicial independence, transparency and combating hate crime, alongside closer alignment with EU accession benchmarks.

Mr. Chair, colleagues,

Democratic institutions, the rule of law and human rights are not an accessory to our security – they are its first line of defence. As Chair of the Human Dimension Committee, Albania fully supports ODIHR’s role across its mandate. We would like to express  our appreciation to ODIHR for its continued support, professionalism and constructive collaboration.

Its dedicated work and expertise remain vital to advancing our shared commitments across the human dimension. It is our responsibility as participating States to ensure that ODIHR has the resources, the space and the trust it needs to deliver.

We count on its expertise and look forward to continued cooperation with Director Telalian and her capable team throughout the year.

Thank you