An Analysis of Albania’s Encounter with International Criminal Justice

Abstract This article aims to provide an account on Albania’s encounter with international criminal justice, reflecting on the data collected under EU cost Action ca 18228 and the States’ Scoping Survey. It looks at how Albania has engaged or not engaged with international criminal justice, in relevant provisions of domestic law, in its level of support and cooperation with international and hybrid courts, in domestic prosecutions of international crimes, and memorialisation activities. The findings suggest that the response to international crimes committed in Albania or abroad has been mixed. While little, if any accountability has been sought for the horrendous crimes during its communist past, Albania’s response to international crimes abroad in neighbouring Yugoslav territories was that of justice and accountability for those who committed crimes. The Kosovo War prompted a strategic shift in Albania’s approach, as the Kosovo Specialist Chambers ( ksc ) faced criticism highlighting tensions between accountability and nationalistic sentiments.