Article 154 of the Constitution of Albania, which established the CEC as a constitutional body, was repealed by the constitutional amendments of 21 April 2008. The CEC is now regulated only by the Electoral Code. This amendment is only one of several amendments adopted over the years in the electoral reform process in Albania. It should be recognised that these amendments may contribute significantly to reduce the highly politicised environment in the election administration that has been observed in past elections in Albania. Although it is not the purpose of this joint opinion to provide a complete history of the changes in the election administration in Albania, it can be stated that the cumulative effect of the amendments should encourage more efficiency and professionalism in election administration. Two issues must however be raised for reminder. First, even if not provided for in the Constitution, the existence of independent, impartial election commissions at all levels is a cornerstone of democratic elections.[19] Second, professionalism does not mean that political parties cannot be involved in the nomination process; so-called professionals are not always independent from political forces, as soon as they are nominated or appointed by political bodies; and non-politicised members are not per se going to act in a professional manner by simple virtue of their non-partisan nomination.
