Albania: Femicide cases expose gaps in protection system
Deutsche Welle
February 26, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Between 2021 and 2023, Albania recorded 24 cases of femicide, highlighting significant gaps in its protection system for women. While Laureta’s case demonstrates progress—police responded swiftly to her abuse allegations, issuing a protection order and requiring her husband to attend rehabilitation—the story of other victims underscores the ongoing challenges faced by women in Albania. Femicide remains alarmingly common, with 24 cases classified as such during this period, often involving violence that had gone unreported beforehand.
The legal framework in Albania lacks specific provisions for femicide; instead, it is prosecuted under general homicide laws, with gender-based motives treated as aggravating factors. Advocates argue that explicitly defining femicide in the criminal code would strengthen accountability and recognition of gender-based violence. The lack of a formal definition has hindered efforts to address this issue comprehensively.
Statistics reveal disturbing trends: 90% of femicide victims had experienced prior abuse by their killers, yet only six reported these incidents to authorities. This underreporting, combined with limited enforcement mechanisms, leaves many women vulnerable despite existing protection orders. Between 2021 and 2025, over 11,819 protection orders were issued, but 144 were violated, indicating systemic weaknesses in ensuring compliance.
Albania has made strides in providing support through shelters, legal aid, and rehabilitation programs for both victims and perpetrators. However, the current system remains fragmented and under-resourced, with only 17 shelters offering limited capacity and free legal assistance available through scattered centers. Advocacy groups emphasize the need for faster, more coordinated responses to safeguard women’s lives.
The issue of femicide in Albania is not just a local concern but a global human rights priority. Addressing these gaps in protection systems is critical to preventing further violence against women and promoting gender equality worldwide.
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Originally published on Deutsche Welle on 2/26/2026