THE LEGAL FRAMEWORK FOR THE PROTECTION OF THE RIGHTS OF LGBTI COMMUNITY IN ALBANIA (Published)
Adhering to the principle of equality and non-discrimination is one of the challenges of the Albanian state to be part of the great European family and to meet the necessary criteria to characterize a democratic country.This challenge becomes greater as it requires not only political and institutional willingness, but also close cooperation with society to change attitudes and mentality discriminating against individuals or groups. Protecting the rights of individuals from discriminatory behavior because of sexual orientation and gender identity is such an issue.This paper aims to analyze how the Albanian legislation protects the rights of LGBTI. It is important to analyze the process of approximation of legislation with the international legislation. Positive changes were made, but remain current need for this process to continue.In the EU Progress Report for Albania 2013 explicitly states: There is legislation in the field of anti-discrimination policies, e.g. concerning the rights of persons lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender and intersexual (LGBTI). Albanian authorities should implement the existing legislation and to draft new legislation in the field of anti-discrimination
Keywords: Approximate Legislation, Gender Identity, Protection From Discrimination., Sexual Orientation