Albanian society may be characterized as one implanting democratic institutions and moving towards a free market system which requires and rewards. At the same time, an active civic society which supports individual freedom within limits is developing. Its inner structure is at present undergoing a highly dynamic process of transformation. The creation and consolidation of a civic society in Albania, with the respective legislation, institutions and culture, will no doubt demand a rather long transition period. Of the many new laws, the most important is the Bill of Human Rights, which guarantees human rights and the fundamental freedoms in keeping with European standards.
Efforts continue to replace inconsistencies and to complete the establishment of the rule of law.
The former Constitution of 1976 has been abolished and a new one is under preparation. At present the Albanian individual truly enjoys fundamental rights and freedoms. The hitherto unknown freedoms of the press, of speech, of association, and of religion are now an organic part of the life of the Albanian individual and of the society in general. The number of private and legally recognized associations has increased dramatically. More than 300 NGOs have been registered, Unheard of during the communist regime, except as instruments of the state, all these organizations have made it possible for people to participate in the affairs of their society at a level heretofore unimagined.