CHOOSING ALBANIA: YOUNG LEADERS IN CONVERSATION WITH US SENATORS - Join the Atlantic Council’s Europe Center for a conversation with US Senators Jeanne Shaheen and Richard Durbin on Albania’s future, its EU path, and the role of young leaders in building this future.

Direct youth engagement is an essential ingredient in the Western Balkans’ path to Europe and a stronger transatlantic relationship. Shaheen has championed the Young Balkan Leaders Initiative (BOLD), which she credits in helping shape the young leaders she has met across the region. From Tirana, Shaheen will discuss her vision for a Western Balkans firmly anchored in the Euro-Atlantic community and the role of the next generation in driving the region’s democratic consolidation and European integration. The conversation will also hand the microphone to young Balkan leaders themselves, who will give their perspective on what a European future looks like from Tirana.

This event is part of the Europe Center’s #BalkansForward Initiative, which promotes the region’s political and economic advancement through Euro-Atlantic integration.

ORIGINAL AIRDATE - 10/9/2026