The May 2023 local elections in Albania were generally well-administered and competitive. This is the final conclusion of the OSCE-ODIHR for the May 14 local elections. However, according to international experts, the process was characterized by continuous polarization between the main political parties. 

In the main findings, the OSCE has preferred to underline the deep division of the opposition, with the struggle of the two parties in the Democratic Party. 

The report said contestants could campaign freely, but cases of misuse of state resources at the central and local level, allegations of pressure on public sector workers and voters, and allegations of vote buying were troubling. 

The report offers 27 recommendations for approaching elections in Albania in accordance with OSCE commitments and other international standards for democratic elections. 

OSCE-ODIHR calls for an independent investigation into all allegations of election violations, including vote buying, voter pressure and misuse of state resources. 

International observers also call for a meaningful electoral reform and the addressing of all ODIHR recommendations. 

Delegations of international observers brought to Albania nearly 250 long-term and short-term observers. On May 14, 2023, the Socialist Party won in 54 municipalities in the country, while 'Together We Win' coalition won in only 7. 

Key recommendations include: 

Independent identification and investigation of all allegations of election violations, including vote buying, voter pressure and misuse of state resources; 

Raise awareness of the long-standing phenomenon of vote buying and public condemnation of such practices; 

Implementation of effective safeguards that ensure the secrecy of the vote and prevent voter intimidation, group and proxy voting; 

Commitment to electoral reform and addressing all ODIHR recommendations to ensure a comprehensive and consistent electoral framework; 

Revising legal provisions related to campaigning, including those against misuse of state resources, to remove ambiguities and ensure a level playing field; 

Ensuring the fair implementation of the law on the right to information and supporting independent journalism; 

Ensuring the stability of the electoral administration by excluding arbitrary replacements of the members of the electoral administration and revising the system of appointing members and secretaries of lower level commissions; 

Avoiding or limiting the use of unattributed material produced by parties or state authorities in news and information programs during the election campaign.