The Legal Protection of National Minorities in Albania: An analysis of Law No. 96/2017 and Its Implementation Framework

Abstract

The protection of national minorities represents a fundamental pillar of democratic governance and the rule of law. Albania has undertaken significant legislative reforms in this field, culminating in the adoption of Law No. 96/2017 “On the Protection of National Minorities in the Republic of Albania”. The Committee for National Minorities has had a crucial role during the entire process. This paper provides a comprehensive legal analysis of the law, examining its guiding principles, substantive rights, and institutional mechanisms. The study further evaluates the law’s coherence with European minority protection standards and assesses recent implementing acts adopted in 2024. The paper concludes that Law No. 96/2017 establishes a solid normative framework aligned with international obligations, while emphasizing the importance of effective implementation and institutional coordination.