In Albania, gender-based violence (GBV) remains a pervasive issue, violating fundamental human rights and challenging social progress. This year alone, over 4,000 women and girls reported cases of violence to the police, and 17 lives were tragically lost to femicide in Albania and neighboring regions, including Kosovo and North Macedonia. Activists and experts highlight the urgent need for a comprehensive response to address this escalating crisis.
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| At the national conference on gender-based violence in Tirana, November 27, 2024 |
The Alarming Statistics of GBV in Albania
According to civil society organizations, one in two women in Albania has experienced some form of violence—be it physical, psychological, economic, sexual, or digital—at least once in their lifetime. Mirela Arqimandriti, from the Gender Alliance for Development Center, emphasized the fragmented nature of support systems for survivors and the numerous barriers they face.
“Victims grapple with societal stigma, isolation within their communities, and economic dependency,” Arqimandriti stated. “These factors often force them to remain in abusive relationships or confront financial instability as they attempt to rebuild their lives. While legislative improvements have been made, enforcement remains inconsistent, leaving many survivors feeling unsafe to report violence due to distrust in justice institutions and fear of retaliation.”
An Increase in Reports: A Double-Edged Reality
The rise in reported cases, exceeding 4,000 this year, reflects both the severity of the problem and a growing awareness among women about their rights. Organizations like the Women’s Empowerment Network attribute this increase to successful awareness campaigns encouraging survivors to speak out. However, despite more protective orders being issued, the system still falls short in providing robust protection and support.
Ines Leskaj, a representative of the Women’s Empowerment Network, stressed that violence in all its forms—domestic, cyber, or in public spaces—has reached a critical point. “The safety of lives is a national emergency,” she stated. “We need a collective societal response. It’s not enough to assign blame to one sector; the responsibility lies with all of us.”
Current Efforts and Persistent Gaps
Authorities in Albania are working to support survivors through integrated services and social protection programs. According to Deputy Minister of Health Denada Seferi Dibra, mechanisms have been implemented across 61 municipalities, including gender equality officers and local support structures. These mechanisms serve as the first point of contact for victims, offering protection and pathways to social reintegration.
Despite these efforts, activists at the National Conference on GBV highlighted significant shortcomings. Community awareness and education remain limited, and the implementation of laws protecting survivors is inconsistent.
A Call to Action
To effectively combat gender-based violence in Albania, systemic and societal changes are urgently needed. Key priorities include:
Strengthening Law Enforcement: Ensure consistent application of existing laws and impose stricter penalties for perpetrators of GBV.
Expanding Support Services: Provide accessible shelters, financial aid, and psychological counseling for survivors.
Enhancing Education and Awareness: Implement nationwide campaigns to challenge harmful gender norms and educate communities about GBV.
Promoting Economic Independence: Offer job training and employment opportunities to survivors, enabling them to break free from abusive relationships.
Protecting Victims: Strengthen mechanisms for issuing and enforcing protection orders.
A Societal Responsibility
Gender-based violence is not just a private issue; it is a societal crisis. Addressing it requires collaboration among government agencies, civil society, and communities. As Leskaj pointed out, “We must act collectively to create a culture where violence is not tolerated, and survivors are supported in reclaiming their lives.”
Albania cannot afford to overlook the growing tide of gender-based violence. Ensuring justice and protection for victims is not just a moral imperative—it is a prerequisite for building a safer, more equitable society for all.