On 19–20 October 2025, the EU4Justice project, in cooperation with the High Judicial Council (HJC) and the School of Magistrates (SoM), organised a training workshop on the Guidelines on Ethical Dilemmas and the Code of Ethics for judges and prosecutors from the southern judicial districts of Albania. The workshop aimed to strengthen understanding of judicial ethics, promote reflection on integrity, and address practical dilemmas faced in judicial practice.

Opening remarks were delivered by Ms Irena Plaku, HJC Member and Chair of the Committee on Ethical and Professional Evaluation; Ms Arjeta Lika, seconded judge to the High Justice Inspector’s Office; and Mr Arturo Valdés, EU4Justice Key Expert. Ms Plaku acknowledged EU4Justice’s support in developing the Guidelines, noting the contribution of two Spanish Supreme Court judges whose expertise shaped the document’s structure and content. All speakers emphasised that ethics are central to judicial conduct, professional evaluation, and institutional trust.

Ms Plaku presented the Guidelines on Ethical Dilemmas, open for public consultation on the HJC website, outlining key ethical values, the legal framework, and principal dilemmas related to independence, impartiality, and public engagement. Ms Lika and Mr Valdés further highlighted aspects of professional conduct, impartiality, and public perception.

An interactive session followed, focusing on real-life ethical challenges such as boundaries between judges and prosecutors, responsible use of social media, and public commentary on ongoing cases. Participants exchanged views and experiences, linking ethical principles to daily judicial practice.

This event marks the first of four regional workshops under Sub-activity 1.3.1.8 of the EU4Justice Workplan, to be held across three regions in October and November 2025. The initiative aims to foster a consistent and sustainable ethical culture within the Albanian judiciary through dialogue, reflection, and practical engagement with professional standards.