OSCE meets justice system actors after Rama table boycott, with salaries and institutional dialogue at the center

Ambassador Michel Tarran, Head of the OSCE Presence in Albania, held a meeting today with representatives of the Union of Judges, the National Association of Judges and the Association of Prosecutors of Albania.

The discussions took place amid heightened tensions between the government and the justice system, following disagreements over the salaries of judges and prosecutors, as well as the rejection of the meeting proposed by Prime Minister Edi Rama to address the issue.

According to the OSCE Presence, participants discussed recent developments in the justice system and their implications for the functioning of institutions, respect for individual rights and the guaranteeing of fair trial standards.

During the meeting, the need for the genuine involvement of all parties, including justice institutions and other relevant actors, in discussions on issues affecting the functioning of the justice system and the rule of law was underlined.

The OSCE meeting took place as the debate over salaries has been accompanied by boycotts within the justice system. Judges and prosecutors have called for the issue to be resolved in accordance with the Constitutional Court’s ruling.

In this context, the OSCE Presence conveyed the importance of inclusive dialogue, guaranteeing the functioning of justice institutions and protecting citizens’ rights.