On 24 February 2010, Albanian President Bamir Topi signed Law No. 10 221 “On Protection from Discrimination” adopted by the Albanian parliament earlier this month. The entry into force of this law is a significant step forward for the protection of equality and non-discrimination in Albania.

The new law puts in place a solid legal foundation guaranteeing the rights to equality and non-discrimination. It also represents a significant victory for Albanian civil society organisations who drafted the original bill, following advice and guidance from The Equal Rights Trust, and who have worked tirelessly to secure its adoption since it was submitted to parliament on 11 November 2009. The draft submitted by civil society was adopted by the parliament with only minor amendments.