Albania - December 2024

On 9 December, the Venice Commission issued an opinion, requested by the Assembly Speaker in September, on Parliament’s compliance with Constitutional Court decisions. It emphasized that compliance with the Court is essential to the rule of law, stating its decisions are binding. The opinion makes clear that “there can be no political discretion on whether or not to abide by and implement judgements” and that “effective compliance with these decisions should not be made conditional on a vote or a parliamentary majority.” The opinion also stated that Parliament is “not obliged to vote in a particular way.” The ruling majority defended parliamentary autonomy, while the opposition called for unconditional compliance. The Assembly Speaker said the opinion clarifies the sovereignty of the Parliament, refusing compliance with the Constitutional Court. 

Sources: International IDEA, Venice Commission, Euronews, Shqiptarja (1), Shqiptarja (2), Balkan Insight 

On 21 December, Prime Minister Edi Rama announced a one-year ban on TikTok, starting 1 January, following the murder of a 14-year-old boy by his peer over a TikTok argument and videos supporting the killing. Rama said the decision was also based on a survey of 65,000 parents, 90 per cent of whom requested TikTok's shutdown. The opposition accused Rama of attempting to stifle political campaigning ahead of the May elections. Critics argued that banning TikTok will not solve youth violence, and that children need education on navigating technology responsibly. Experts questioned the legal basis for the ban and warned of its implications for internet freedom, free expression, and media freedom. As of 29 January 2025, the ban had not been implemented. TikTok is one of the most popular platforms in Albania. According to ByteDance, as of early 2024, there were 1.53 million users over 18, and its reach extends to younger users despite a 13+ age requirement.  

Sources: Shqiptarja, Balkan Insight, Reuters, Politico