The Last True Believer? Albania’s Political and Discursive Commitment to the EU

After decades of optimistic hopes, unmet expectations, and recurring obstacles, some internal and others stemming from a lack of political will within the EU and its member states, Albania seems closer than ever to joining the union. Despite a lengthy and sometimes turbulent process, recent surveys show that 92 percent of Albanians support EU membership, making the country the most pro-EU nation in the Western Balkans. Albanian society continues to view EU accession as a collective aspiration grounded in democratic values, shared principles, and strong institutions. While domestic disputes persist over policies and governance, the two main political parties agree on one central issue: the necessity of EU integration. This paper examines why no mainstream political party or leader in Albania opposes EU accession and how this reflects a broader consensus rooted in national values, a Western-oriented outlook, and a clear strategic vision regarding EU membership. It analyzes political speeches, public statements, and party discourse to assess how EU integration is framed and represented in the national debate, highlighting the enduring cross-party consensus that defines Albania’s political landscape.