EU Criminal Justice Initiative for the Western Balkans: General Prosecutors Meeting in Tirana

General and Special Prosecutors from the Western Balkans convened in Tirana, facilitated by the EU’s Criminal Justice project for the region.

The meeting aimed to address international organized crime networks, enhance cross-border cooperation in justice, foster trust among regional prosecutors, and offer EU support, particularly through Eurojust, the European Union Agency for Criminal Justice Cooperation.

During the forum, Michael Schmid, President of Eurojust, highlighted that “the Western Balkans is a very important partner of Eurojust.” He emphasized the organization’s commitment to improving cooperation with the region.

Schmid remarked, “We believe that the project for the Western Balkans is effective in achieving this. Our main goal is to build mutual trust and knowledge among prosecutors and judges to strengthen cross-border cooperation in the region and with EU countries.”

He noted that since Montenegro’s first forum, numerous cases of online fraud have been identified, leading to hundreds of arrests and significant seizures of illegal goods.

Silvio Gonzato, the EU Ambassador in Tirana, underscored the importance of close collaboration between justice and law enforcement across borders in tackling cross-border crime.

“Cross-border crime and corruption inflict financial damage on our societies, impede economic growth, and undermine citizens’ trust in institutions. Albania has seen a rise in high-profile cases involving cross-border organized crime, money laundering, and corruption, successfully addressed through judicial cooperation with EU member states and agencies,” he stated.

Gonzato added, “Achieving tangible results in fighting corruption and organized crime is crucial for the progress of candidate countries toward EU membership. The EU will continue to support the judiciary and law enforcement in Albania in their efforts against organized crime and corruption.”

Altin Dumani, head of Albania’s Special Structure Against Corruption and Organized Crime, also spoke at the forum, stating, “The fight against organized crime transcends geographical boundaries and necessitates close regional and international cooperation.”

He noted that “criminal groups are interconnected, and dismantling them requires coordinated regional efforts.”

General Prosecutor of Albania, Olsian Çela, announced that Albania will sign a memorandum of understanding with Montenegro during the forum, which aims to foster coordinated regional actions in justice matters. (June 18)