Kuvend

Kuvend is the Albanian word for a parliament or legislative assembly. It is used both as a generic term for legislative bodies in Albanian-speaking communities and as the proper name for specific institutions, such as national parliaments. In Albanian-language contexts, kuvend denotes a body that drafts and adopts laws, exercises oversight of the executive, and represents the electorate.

In Albania, the Kuvendi i Shqipërisë refers to the unicameral national parliament. It is the primary legislative authority in the country, responsible for passing laws, approving the budget, and supervising the government. Members of the Kuvend are elected through regional and national elections, and the body also plays a key role in appointing or confirming senior state offices and ratifying international treaties.

In Kosovo, the Kuvendi i Kosovës is the unicameral Assembly of the Republic of Kosovo. It consists of deputies elected to represent the population, with responsibilities including legislation, government oversight, and the appointment of officials. The assembly operates within the framework of Kosovo’s multi-party system and constitutional order.

Historically, the term kuvend has also appeared in Albania during the communist era, when the legislative body was known as Kuvendi Popullor (People’s Assembly). The terminology reflects Albania’s political and constitutional changes over time, from socialist structures to contemporary parliamentary democracy.

Outside national contexts, kuvend can be used to refer to regional or municipal assemblies in Albanian-speaking areas, each serving a legislative or deliberative function within its jurisdiction. See also: Parliament, Legislative assembly.