European MP Viotti visits Albania on the occasion of Tirana Pride 2015

3 June 2015 – Danielle Viotti, italian Member of the European Parliament and member of the LGBTI intergroup held a working visit in Tirana on the occasion of the Diversity Festival and Tirana Pride 2015.

In his visit Mr. Viotti met with Minister of Integration Mrs. Klajda Gjosha, the Commissioner for Protection from Discrimination Mrs. Irma Baraku and representatives of PINK Embassy and the Human Rights House in Albania.

At the meeting with the Minister of Integration, Mrs. Klajda Gjoshaj said that “human rights are a priority and a lot has been done in this regard”. She added that Albania has worked a lot to change the legal framework and has worked actively for LGBTI community empowerment while a lot more work needs to be to increase awareness and acceptance of LGBTI people. He mentioned in particular the new strategy for social inclusion 2015-2020 and May 7^th resolution of the Albanian Parliament.

Mr. Viotti said he was impressed by the progress done in Albania considering them as very positive. He added that the European Parliament has given due consideration to LGBTI rights in the region.

PINK Embassy representative Mr. Altin Hazizaj raised the issue of legal gender recognition and the law on cohabitation which have both been introduced to the Albanian government which have yet to be discussed and consulted with the interest groups.

In the meeting with Commissioner, Mrs Irma Baraku presented the institution and some procedural and practical aspects of the law.

Mr. Viotti was interested to know the public opinion views on the work of the Commissioner, its relations to the Parliament, budgeting, decision-making, investigative structure of the institution etc.

Mrs. Baraku made a comparison of Albanian commissioner with those of the region to explain similarities and differences. In particular were discussed how the work of the Commissioner was evaluated by the judiciary, how discrimination cases are investigated etc.

PINK Embassy wishes to thank Mr. Viotti for his visit to Albania and the Ministry of Integration and Commissioner for Protection from Discrimination for the successful working meetings and their efforts in protecting and advancing LGBTI right.