Full Breakdown
Addressing Femicide in Albania: Gaps in Protection and Calls for Reform
2/26/2026, 11:00:44 PM
Overview of Femicide in Albania
Between 2021 and 2023, Albania recorded 24 cases of femicide, defined as the intentional killing of women or girls with a gender-based motivation. Despite institutional measures aimed at protecting women, experts argue that a more coordinated and rapid response is necessary to address the underlying issues contributing to this violence. The Observatory for Femicide in Albania reported that 32 women and girls were killed during this period, with 24 classified as femicides. Alarmingly, in approximately 90% of these cases, victims had previously experienced violence from their perpetrators, yet only six had reported the abuse to authorities.
Institutional Responses and Their Limitations
The Albanian government has issued 11,819 protection orders for women between 2021 and 2025, with 2,849 orders registered in 2025 alone. However, 144 of these orders were violated, indicating that such legal measures do not always ensure the safety of women. The Ministry of Health and Social Protection has developed rehabilitation programs for both victims and perpetrators and operates 17 shelters with a total capacity of 40 places. Despite these efforts, experts highlight significant gaps in the legal and social infrastructure, emphasizing the need for a faster and more effective response to domestic violence.
Cultural and Economic Factors
Experts attribute the prevalence of violence against women in Albania to deep-rooted economic, cultural, and institutional inequalities. Ines Leskaj, head of the Albanian Women Empowerment Network (AWEN), notes that economic dependence, social isolation, and a lack of psychological support contribute to the issue. The patriarchal mentality prevalent in Albanian society further exacerbates the situation, as women are often viewed as property or objects of shame, leading to increased violence and, in some cases, femicide.
Calls for Legal Reform
In October 2023, the Committee on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) recommended that Albania amend its penal code to specifically criminalize femicide. The committee also urged the explicit definition of all forms of gender-based violence, including economic and cyber violence, as criminal offenses. While legal reforms and improved access to legal aid are seen as positive steps, experts stress that without addressing the patriarchal mentality and enhancing societal awareness, many women will continue to be at risk.
The Need for Comprehensive Support Systems
Laureta, a survivor of domestic violence, illustrates the fragility of women's safety in Albania. After reporting her abusive husband, she received a protection order, but ongoing economic challenges and insufficient support payments have made her situation precarious. Experts argue that the protection and social support systems must evolve to provide direct services for victims and their children, ensuring timely and adequate responses to domestic violence.
Conclusion: A Cultural Battle Against Femicide
The fight against femicide in Albania requires not only legal reform but also a cultural shift to dismantle the patriarchal structures that perpetuate violence. As experts emphasize, addressing the normalization of control and humiliation is crucial in preventing future tragedies. Until these issues are confronted, the statistics will continue to reflect stories of violence that should never be repeated.
