Weak institutions leave Balkans exposed to foreign influence, says opposition MP

Weak institutions, corruption and money laundering are making Albania and the Western Balkans easier targets for foreign influence, an Albanian opposition MP has warned.

Jorida Tabaku, a Democratic Party lawmaker, made the comments at a conference on authoritarian influence.

She said foreign interference works when institutions are weak, corruption is tolerated and citizens lose trust in government.

Tabaku said corruption, organised crime and state capture were now direct threats to national security.

She called for stronger checks on foreign investment in critical sectors, including energy, ports, telecommunications, data and technology.

She also urged tougher rules on company ownership, large financial transactions, public procurement and illegal money entering strategic parts of the economy.