The heavy legacy of communism and economic weaknesses
Communism under Enver Hoxha had a profound economic and social impact on Albania. After the collapse of the regime in 1991, the transition to a capitalist market economy took time and was hampered by economic crises, political instability and corruption. The country continues to struggle with high unemployment, a weak economy and a large informal sector that hampers growth.
The 2019 earthquake and the COVID-19 pandemic have aggravated the situation, weighing heavily on the Albanian economy. The war in Ukraine is also having an impact on the country: rising energy and food prices are worsening food security for many families. Nevertheless, in 2024, Albania recorded slight signs of economic recovery, thanks in particular to targeted reforms and new infrastructure projects that have attracted foreign investment.
Long-standing inequalities worsen
Albania remains marked by regional and social inequalities. Rural areas lag behind economically, while ethnic minorities such as the Roma are often excluded from education, infrastructure and social services. Low incomes and uneven economic growth accentuate these disparities.
Under the long-standing dictatorship, patriarchal structures rooted in culture were further reinforced. These still mark social life today, and have a particular impact on women and girls.
Progress in women's rights
Albania has improved its legal and institutional framework for combating gender-based violence. The equality strategy (2021–2030) introduced in 2021 is more closely aligned with international standards. Important legislative changes have led to a more comprehensive definition of violence: instead of referring solely to «domestic violence», the law now uses the term «violence against women and girls» to better reflect the different dimensions of gender-based violence.
In addition, the legal basis for free legal aid has been improved to facilitate access to legal assistance for victims of violence. These reforms are important steps towards strengthening the rights of women and girls.
Lack of support for those affected remains a problem
Despite this progress, much remains to be done: access to state support for women victims of violence remains inadequate. Civil society organizations that could provide specialized services receive virtually no financial support from the state. Lack of confidence in the justice system, social taboos and often difficult access to legal assistance prevent many women from reporting violence.
EU integration, a beacon of hope
On the political front, the official launch of EU accession negotiations in 2022 offers Albania the chance to push ahead with important reforms. In 2024, the country is working more closely on intra-regional cooperation in the Western Balkans to pave the way for EU membership. The international community welcomes Albania's recent steps, but stresses the need for further reforms in the areas of anti-corruption, the judiciary and social equality.
Key figures
Area: 28,748 km2
Capital: Tirana / 901,000 inhabitants
Population: 3.1 million
Population growth: 0.19% per year
Urban population: 64 %
Infant mortality: 10.5 per 1000 live births
Maternal mortality: 8 per 100,000 births
Births per woman: 1.5 births per woman
Life expectancy: 79 years
Youth unemployment (up to 24): 27.8 %
Source: CIA World Factbook (2025)
