Civil Society in Albania and the Impact of EU in Its Development

Abstract

Albania has experienced one of the most brutal dictatorships in Eastern Europe. For 20 years, it is undergoing a period of transition towards democracy and the European Union. One of the most important criteria to meet these goals is the development and strengthening of the civil society, in whose heart are the non-profit organizations. History of NGOs and Civil Society in Albania cannot be compared with that of other countries, even the communist ones. This phenomenon has affected the organization and the development of the Civil Society and democracy in Albanian. Experience shows that actors and institutions of civil society can play an important and crucial role in the strengthening of democracy as well as in the integration process. Citizens are beginning to have concepts and believe in the democracy and integration in the European Union. This process should not be imposed by the political class, which means in a top-down direction, but quite the opposite. In this way, the civil society being informed and having access to policy making process, will help in formulating realistic policies in favor of integration. Albania's integration process should be inclusive and active. For this, it is important and necessary the irreplaceable role of the Civil Society. To understand the opinion of civil society and its position in relation to the role of NGOs I have compiled a questionnaire, the analysis of which has helped me to reach conclusions more easily.

DOI: 10.5901/mjss.2014.v5n23p1965