The Impact of EU Accession Process in Shaping the Policy Domains in Albania through Social Inclusion

Abstract

The integration of Albania into the European Union (EU) has significantly impacted thedevelopment, transformation and adaptation of the country’s internal policies. This researchexplores how the Albania’s accession to EU process has influenced the social inclusion agenda,examining how EU conditionality, financial instruments, and the adoption of European valueshave reshaped policies with a focus on reducing inequality and promoting equal opportunities forall citizens. These actions are directly linked to the economic development and enhancement ofthe well-being of marginalized groups. The data for this research are obtained through a thorough analysis of key policy domains, suchas poverty reduction, employment, education, healthcare, social protection, and the rights ofvulnerable groups. Research highlights how EU integration has driven legislative andinstitutional changes. Moreover, the paper examines the European Commission Progress Reportfor Albania, focusing on the strengthening of mechanisms for monitoring social inclusionprogress and fostering cooperation between government, civil society, and internationalorganizations. The Government of Albania has implemented several reforms that aim to increasethe social inclusion of marginalized groups, specifically in the area of social care services,inclusive education, and Vocational Education Training (VET) employment. However,extending the implementation of these reforms may be decelerated from potential political,economic, and administrative challenges, as well as the ongoing need for capacity-buildingwithin public institutions. Furthermore,political instability, slow economic growth, andpersistent social inequalities remain barriers to achieving an effective social inclusion. There should be concrete policies and actions in order to overcome the governance andinstitutional challenges when it comes to the inclusion of marginalized groups such as ethnicminorities, women, people with disabilities, and rural populations. A multi-stakeholder approach isrecommended, ensuring accountability, transparency and sustainability of interventions and/orreforms.

Received: 20 April 2025 / Accepted: 2 June 2025 / Published: 25 June 2025