Albania is facing a significant increase of immigration, especially of the young generation. This phenomenon is a consequence of economic, social and political factors that have influenced the mass departure of young people. Recent discussions among experts in the UNFPA Albania series "Depopulation" highlight some of the main reasons that drive young people to seek new opportunities abroad.
Why do young people leave?
The Demographer, Prof. Assoc. Arjan Gjonça explains that the key factors for the immigration of young people are mainly education and employment opportunities, summed up in the concept of "a better life." For young people who wish to study in foreign universities, it has become more feasible to pursue these aspirations due to the recognition of degrees in the host countries, especially in countries like Germany. Employment abroad offers higher conditions and wages, which are not comparable to those in Albania.
The challenges of the Albanian market and the lack of opportunities
Economic expert Selami Xhepa considers the immigration of the new generation as evidence of the failure of the economic and political transition, which has not created enough opportunities for employment. He notes that this failure does also relate to the inadequate education system and public services, which do not respond to the needs of young people for a stable career after graduation.
Long-term effects of youth dropout
Sociologist Arjana Muçaj adds that the departure of young people, who are the bigger contributing age group to insurance and pension systems, creates a significant gap in the labor market. This situation requires special policies that support the development of vocational education and that provide competitive conditions for young people in the labor market.
Cost of living and purchasing power
The difference in the cost of living and purchasing capability between Albania and European countries is another major factor. According to the analysis in the documentary, Enriko Ceko, who refers to Eurostat, explains that the purchasing capability of Albanian youth is lower than that of their European peers. For example, an average Albanian spends about 42% of his income on food, while in Europe this figure is 13-14%. This shows the high economic pressure for young Albanians who face a difficult financial reality.
Personal experiences of Albanian immigrants
Interviews with expats like Adela Hysenllari in Lisbon and Kosta Bracja in London bring a new perspective on the cost of living and the reasons that led to their decision to leave. According to them, some expenses such as food and entertainment in the countries where they live are more profitable, despite the high salaries. But some other items, such as the rent are significantly higher and, at the end of the month, it is almost impossible for them to save anything. Meanwhile, some young people, like Visar Mataj, who has returned to Kukës to contribute to his community, show that family support and the desire to give something to the country are factors that keep them in Albania.
Policies and strategies to stop immigration
Albert Gajo and Arjana Muçaj emphasized the need for decentralized policies that can develop the economy and public services outside Tirana. According to them, countries like the Netherlands have built development models to recover poor regions, moving government structures and providing public services to rural areas. This can serve as an example for Albania as well, which should focus on creating opportunities for young people in the country, both through the support of the private sector and through the development of new industries, such as technology and tourism. Gjonça emphasized the diversification of the economy based on a regional development policy.
Young people leaving Albania is a problem that requires immediate intervention and long-term strategies. According to experts, without sustainable policies that help improve the labor market and increase the quality of life, depopulation will continue. Albania must invest in the development of the regions and offer attractive conditions that give young people a reason to stay.
UNFPA: Migration important factor for development
For UNFPA, migration is recognized as an important factor for development. Also, migration is a natural consequence when a country faces a lack of resources and opportunities. For this reason, UNFPA strives to analyze and promote understanding of the development potential that migration brings in relation to human, economic and social capital, as well as to encourage the inclusion of young people in the discussions. Education and employment, or the lack of employment opportunities, are some of the reasons often cited. Among other things, UNFPA emphasizes the importance of a debate and an inherent analysis between education and the needs of the labor market in order to better coordinate the profiles that higher education institutions offer, to meet the needs of the market in Albania, as well as the need to improve the quality of education content at all levels. Special attention should be given to vocational professional education also related to the needs of the labor market. The development of Albania is opening the possibility to explore these needs and it is necessary that professional education be reformed to respond to the needs of Albania and the sectors.
