Confrontation and Identification as Procedural Means in Relation to the Victim and the Defendant Historical and Legal Treatment under the Criminal Procedure Codes of Kosovo and Albania

Abstract: Confrontation and identification constitute two of the most delicate procedural means of evidence in the criminal process, due to the direct impact they have on the personal statements of the victim and the defendant. This paper aims to analyze the legal meaning, function, and limits of these institutes, relying on the Criminal Procedure Code of the Republic of Albania and the Criminal Procedure Code of the Republic of Kosovo, as well as on European standards for the protection of human rights. Particular focus is placed on balancing the principle of discovering the material truth with the protection of the dignity and psychological integrity of the victim, without infringing upon the fundamental rights of the defendant.