OIPA ETS has formally addressed Albanian authorities regarding a series of serious concerns related to animal welfare and the management of stray animals in the country, particularly in relation to reports emerging from the Municipality of Tirana over recent months.
With the support of its member league, Animal Rescue Albania, the letter has been submitted to a number of national and local institutions, including the Prime Minister, the President of the Republic, the Parliament of Albania, relevant ministries, law enforcement authorities, and other competent bodies. Diplomatic representatives and international stakeholders have also been informed of the situation.
Over the past several months, OIPA has received documentation, testimonies, reports, and media coverage concerning alleged incidents involving stray animals, including reports of animal deaths, suspected poisonings, concerns regarding shelter management, and broader issues related to animal welfare and population management practices.
Particularly concerning are reports regarding the discovery of numerous dog bodies discarded in public waste containers, as well as allegations that have prompted investigations by the competent authorities. Additional concerns have been raised regarding the management of public facilities housing animals and the conditions under which animals are being kept.
While the verification of facts remains the responsibility of the competent authorities, OIPA believes that the seriousness of the allegations, combined with the growing public attention surrounding these cases, warrants full transparency and careful institutional scrutiny.
In its communication, OIPA emphasized the importance of conducting thorough, independent, and transparent investigations capable of establishing all relevant facts and responsibilities. The organization also highlighted concerns regarding the lack of transparency surrounding certain reported incidents, investigations, and animal management procedures, which has contributed to increasing uncertainty and public concern.
“The protection of animals is not solely an animal welfare issue. It is also a reflection of transparency, accountability, and the values upheld by public institutions,” OIPA ETS stated in its letter.
The organization has therefore called upon the Albanian authorities to ensure transparency and accountability, strengthen oversight mechanisms concerning animal management facilities, and guarantee that stray animal policies are implemented in accordance with humane, science-based, and internationally recognized standards.
OIPA ETS further encouraged the effective implementation of long-term strategies focused on sterilization, vaccination, identification, responsible ownership, and humane population management as key components of sustainable solutions.
OIPA ETS will continue to closely monitor developments and remains available for constructive dialogue and cooperation. The organization sincerely hopes that the concerns raised will be addressed through transparent investigations and effective action, ensuring the protection and welfare of animals in accordance with national legislation and internationally recognized standards.
