Public procurement and public contracts in the context of Albania’s European Integration: Legal reforms, challenges, and perceptions of corruption

This paper explores the development and implementation of public procurement and public contracts in Albania within the broader framework of the country’s European integration process. It examines the evolution of the legal framework, particularly after 2020, and assesses the extent to which the reformed legislation has enhanced transparency, reduced corruption, and increased competition. Drawing on qualitative analysis of policy documents, legal texts, and reports from the Public Procurement Agency and justice sector strategies, the study highlights both internal and external factors affecting the effectiveness of procurement reforms. While the legal alignment with EU standards, especially Chapter 5 (Public Procurement) and Chapter 24 (Justice, Freedom, and Security) has improved on paper, practical implementation remains challenged by institutional inertia, limited oversight, and persistent public perceptions of corruption. By comparing Albania’s framework with the Croatian model and EU best practices, the paper identifies the gaps between legislative intent and practice. It concludes that without stronger enforcement mechanisms, institutional accountability, and civic oversight, procurement reform will remain superficial and insufficient for Albania’s EU integration goals.