WMU-Cooley Law School student Laura Ivezaj was selected by the Albanian Embassy in the United States to take part in “An Albanian Day in Washington D.C.,” a program which introduces graduate students to government organizations, institutions and representatives who contribute to and influence relations between Albania and the U.S.
The program began with a reception at the Albanian Embassy on Nov. 27, and was followed by various meetings on Nov. 28 (Albania’s Independence Day) with different U.S. representatives and institutions. Its purpose was to open the doors for future leaders of the Albanian American community to discuss how to further strengthen foreign policy and international diplomatic relations between the countries.
Ivezaj, a third year law student at the WMU-Cooley’s Auburn Hills campus, along with nine other graduate and law students from other educational institutions and career backgrounds, met with Michigan Sen. Gary Peters, who is on the Albanian Caucus in the U.S. Senate, and Alabama Rep. Robert Aderholt, a member of the Albanian Caucus in the U.S. House.
The group, which included students studying law, international relations, foreign affairs, economics and political science, also met with members of the U.S. Department of State, and the Atlantic Council, an American think tank in the field of international affairs that works with NATO to discuss strategy between NATO countries.
“The United States and Albania share strong diplomatic relations, and both countries stay actively involved in maintaining this friendship,” said Ivezaj. “Because of Albania’s geographical location, and history with surrounding countries, the United States has an interest in making sure Albania continues its progress as a stable democracy. Because of the United States involvement and continued mentoring of Albania, Albania is committed to remaining a strong ally of the United States.”
Throughout the program, topics such as America’s involvement in Albania’s judicial reform, Albania’s involvement with the U.S. in fighting the war against terror and Albania’s efforts to become a member of the European Union were discussed.
During the meeting with the U.S. Department of State, Ivezaj said the fact that Albania must have a full judicial reform in order to become a member of the European Union was emphasized. Potential economic and political impacts of a total reformation of Albania’s judicial system, which includes vetting of judges and prosecutors, were deliberated.
“It was important for me as a law student to see the effect our profession can have on a country, and how the legal system in the United States is a model for other countries. Albania needs an independent and ethical judicial system to proceed as a democracy. I understood this concept and was able to contribute to discussion because WMU-Cooley has embedded legal ethics in its curriculum,” said Ivezaj. “The legal field’s strong impact on democracy reaffirms my decision to go to law school. A fair and independent judicial system is necessary to have a complete democracy.”
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