Lulzim Basha
Chairman
Democratic Party of Albania, Albania
Lulzim Basha graduated in Law at the University of Utrecht in the Netherlands. He has worked for the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia and as a Legal Adviser at the United Nations Mission in Kosovo. Transitioning to Albanian politics in 2005, Basha was elected member of Parliament. During the period 2005-2011 he subsequently served as Minister of Public Works and Telecommunications, Minister of Foreign Affairs and Minister of the Interior.
His achievements include the construction of Albania's largest infrastructure project, the Durres-Kukes highway, implementation of the integrated TIMS system for border control, production of biometric passports, visa-free travel to Schengen countries and Albania's NATO membership. In 2011, Basha was elected Mayor of Tirana, where he continued his ambitious urban development projects and approved the first Urban Plan for Tirana in decades. As Mayor, Basha masterminded the expansion of the main Boulevard and the rehabilitation of the Tirana River.
Transitioning to party leadership in 2013, he became the first chairman of the Democratic Party elected directly by its members. His leadership has been characterized by his efforts to modernize and democratize internal party processes. Additionally, the establishment of the Foundation for Freedom and Democracy underscores his commitment to nurturing analytical discourse and policy innovation within the party.
Basha has also been recognized for his dedication to democratic principles, human rights, and the rule of law. Throughout his career, he has consistently advocated for transparency, accountability, and good governance, both within Albania and on the international stage. Basha has been an active voice in advocating for Albania's integration into the European Union and fostering closer ties with neighboring countries. His diplomatic insight and dedication to regional cooperation have contributed to Albania's positioning as a key player in the Western Balkans region.
