Voting abroad faces challenges as Albania finalizes election rules

TIRANA, November 11 – Authorities in Albania are working to finalize the overseas voting process ahead of the spring elections, with the Central Election Commission (CEC) still grappling with a number of uncertainties. As the country prepares for its first large-scale overseas voting process, the CEC is scrambling to meet the tight deadlines established by law.

One of the key challenges is the logistics of sending and receiving ballots abroad. The CEC has identified several postal services that can send and return ballots by 7:00 PM on election day. However, only five out of 26 international postal services in Albania offer this service for a fee.

Albania's Electronic and Postal Communications Authority (AKEP) is working with the CEC to confirm the capabilities of these providers. The cost of sending the ballots will be covered by the state, while emigrants will be responsible for the return shipping fees. The selected postal services must also offer tracking to ensure ballots are delivered on time.

The draft decision on overseas voting is expected to be reviewed and approved by the regulatory commission this week. However, concerns remain, particularly around the rules established by CEC Chair Ilirjan Celibashi. The regulatory commission has previously raised doubts about the process, making this a key moment for both the CEC and the government.

The outcome of this process will have a significant impact on Albania’s diaspora, many of whom are eager to participate in the upcoming elections. With the clock ticking, the CEC is under pressure to ensure everything is in place for a smooth voting experience abroad.