"The time has come to move from standard setting to implementation" Commissioner Hammarberg said at today's press conference concluding his official visit to Albania. "Important laws are in place and strategies have been adopted, but more has to be done to ensure an effective implementation of the standards."
During his visit, the Commissioner focused on a broad range of issues including the functioning of the judiciary, conditions of detention, torture and ill-treatment, trafficking in human beings, gender equality, Roma and minority rights as well as social and economic rights.
The Commissioner stressed that the independence of the judiciary was a fundamental principle for the rule of law and the protection of human rights. He stressed that "the continuing climate of informality and corruption – be it real or perceived – risks undermining the entire justice system".
Denouncing shortcomings in the detention and prison sector, the Commissioner called for a swift introduction of alternatives to imprisonment and for efficient probation services. Moreover, he suggested that a separate and specialised juvenile justice system be introduced. "Holding minors as young as 14 years together with adult detainees is not only inhumane, but also counterproductive", said Mr. Hammarberg. "Youngsters may be easily influenced by hardened criminals and we would only get what we are trying to fight".
The Commissioner was also concerned about frequent allegations of police brutality during interrogation and overcrowding in pre-trial detention centers, which "overshadow recent positive improvements and must be tackled efficiently".
The Commissioner's assessment report on Albania, containing recommendations to help redress shortcomings, is expected to be presented within three months.
Read also:
- Commissioner Hammarberg to assess human rights situation in Albania (press release, 26/10/07)