Albania’s Democratic Party (PD) approved a series of amendments to its statute during the party’s National Assembly on Saturday, introducing reforms aimed at strengthening internal structures and broadening political representation.

Following an address by party leader Sali Berisha, Democratic Party parliamentary group chairman Gazment Bardhi presented the proposed changes, which were unanimously approved by delegates attending the assembly.

Among the most significant reforms is an increased role for the Albanian diaspora within the party. Under the new rules, representatives from the diaspora must account for at least 15% of electoral candidate lists and party governing bodies, a move designed to enhance the political participation of Albanians living abroad.

The amendments also expand the representation of women within the party, raising the required quota from 30% to 40% in party structures and decision-making bodies.

In an effort to improve candidate selection procedures, the Democratic Party approved the creation of a Candidate Selection Commission responsible for evaluating prospective parliamentary and mayoral candidates. The commission will operate independently from the party’s leadership structures and will function prior to the party’s primary elections process.

Other changes focus on strengthening the party’s grassroots organization, including reforms to local branches and subsection groups, as well as enhancing the role of the College of Subsection Leaders.

The statute amendments also seek to improve cooperation between local party branches and elected municipal representatives, including city council members.

Additionally, the Democratic Party approved provisions granting equal status to all partner organizations affiliated with the party, while maintaining respect for the historical foundations of the Democratic Party of Albania.

The reforms include new measures aimed at protecting the personal data of party members and clarifying procedures governing the dismissal of local branch leaders, providing them with greater institutional safeguards and stability in office.

Party officials described the changes as part of a broader effort to modernize the Democratic Party’s internal governance and strengthen its organizational framework ahead of future political contests.