On 26 and 27 October 2023, the OSCE Presence in Albania in close co-operation with the Albanian School of Magistrates, organized a training on "Investigation and adjudication of criminal offences related to public procurement". The training was designed in line with the areas of interest expressed by prosecutors of the Special Structure against Corruption and Organized Crime (SPAK) and judges of the Special Court against Corruption and Organized Crime in Albania, who were the main beneficiaries of this activity.
The training programme aimed at boosting up the overall capacities of SPAK prosecutors and Special Courts to conduct criminal investigations of high-level corruption and transnational organized crime groups. It focused on risks associated with procurement procedures, legal novelties, special techniques in investigating criminal offences related to public procurement, concessions and public private partnerships, sharing of best national and international practices in this field and through international co-operation. Case studies were also discussed during the interactive training.
Addressing the event, Chief Special Prosecutor Altin Dumani noted: "SPAK has paid special attention to criminal offenses committed in the context of corruption of public officials, which also include those in the field of public procurement. The new approach followed consists of increasing the effectiveness of investigations through a rise of human capacities, mainly in the field of financial investigations. On the other hand, the legal formulation of related offences may need further improvement."
This activity was held in the framework of a joint cross-departmental effort of the OSCE Presence to support Albania further advance the implementation of the anti-corruption reform in the country and consolidate rule of law, key justice institutions, and civil society organizations working with the justice system through application of international best practices in line with international standards and OSCE commitments.
The OSCE Presence in Albania has been a long-standing partner of the judiciary, providing them with continuous support in their professional development process. The Presence will continue to support the consolidation and efficient functioning of justice institutions.
