Accession by Algorithm

For over twenty years, the EU has viewed Albania as a potential accession candidate. Albania has since applied, undergone reviews, and obtained candidate status, yet core reforms have lagged amid political polarization and persistent corruption. Against this backdrop, the government has, since 2023, turned to AI – using it to translate and consolidate legislation, screen procurement opportunities, and even assign a system to a cabinet-level role. While these initiatives promise efficiency, transparency, and participation, they risk treating symptoms rather than the deeper ethical and institutional reforms required for EU acquis alignment.