In this interview, Ilir Gjoni describes his experience as a member of the Albanian government in the aftermath of extensive internal upheaval in the country. Describing the buildup of civic unrest and the revolts following the 1997 collapse of pyramid schemes, he elaborates on the challenges faced by a government administration seeking reform. Gjoni further outlines the steps taken by Prime Minister Meta upon his succession, praising Meta’s efforts in appointing individuals with differing political affiliations and backgrounds. Gjoni goes on to describe his own exertions as minister of defense, talking of the measures he took to counteract the rampant human, arms and drug trafficking in the country. His efforts included arms reduction initiatives. He also details the steps he took as minister of public order in reducing organized crime, improving personnel appointment and training policies and collaborating with other European nations to address trafficking problems. Recognizing the corrupting nature of power, however, Gjoni describes how power tussles and pressures from different party factions created infighting and tensions within the Meta administration. Gjoni concludes by providing advice to those seeking to institute reform in similar circumstances.