Letter From Brussels: The Epstein Effect Hits Europe
In her latest monthly dispatch from Brussels, Gjeraqina Tuhina looks at the ripple-effects of the Jeffrey Epstein saga, while Serbia falls behind on the long march to EU accession. KAYNAK:…
Albania’s TikTok Ban Expires, But Promised Protections Still Pending
As a one-year ban ends, Albanian authorities say they are still working with TikTok on ‘relevant filters’ to better protect young users of the video-sharing app. KAYNAK: Balkan Insight
Balkans Seeing ‘Serious Stagnation’ in Tackling Corruption: Transparency International
As Transparency International releases its latest corruption perception index, the watchdog’s Lidija Prokic tells BIRN that anti-graft drives have faltered across the Western Balkans – in Serbia especially. KAYNAK: Balkan…
BIRN Reality Check: With Its Mayor Behind Bars, Stasis Grips Albania’s Capital
Awaiting trial on graft charges, Tirana mayor Erion Veliaj has fought hard to maintain his position after the Albanian government tried to dismiss him – but how is the city…
Monday Briefing from the Balkans: February 9, 2026
Catch up on the weekend’s most important developments with Balkan Insight’s digest of news from countries across the region. KAYNAK: Balkan Insight
Week in Review: Saviours, Crypto Fugitives and Unlikely Friendships
A Canadian on the run in Bosnia, an Albanian’s controversial jaunt to Israel and a Brit looking to the Balkans for possible salvation – this week’s selection of Balkan Insight…
Albanian PM’s Private Jet Trip to Israel Raises Transparency Questions
During last week’s visit to Israel, Albania’s Prime Minister used a private jet once owned by Sam Bankman Fried, now-jailed owner of crypto exchange FTX – but it’s unclear who…
Albania Arrests 20 for Toxic Waste-Trafficking to Thailand
The suspects are among 33 people accused of involvement in shipping a cargo of dangerous industrial waste from Albania to Thailand. KAYNAK: Balkan Insight
Letter from London: Keir Starmer’s Air of Doom
As his foes circle, embattled British premier Keir Starmer is still hoping to score a political win by finding somewhere to ‘offshore’ unwanted migrants after Albania gave him the brush-off…
As Trump’s Family Eyes Pristine Albanian Coast, Villagers Cry Foul
The US president’s son-in-law wants to build a tourism development in southern Albania, but residents of the unspoilt strip around Zvernec say a dispute over ownership of the land is…