Albania
BRICKS & MORTAR: Renovation of apartment buildings has biggest potential for energy saving in Western Balkans
The potential for energy savings in the buildings sector — characterised by ageing, poorly maintained apartment blocks — is estimated at more than 50% of consumption, Energy Community report shows.
Emerging Europe strong on women’s economic opportunities but dragged down by low pensions
Different retirement ages for men and women lead to lower pensions for women despite reforms in 2019-2020, says World Bank report.
VIENNEAST COMPASS: All in? Kosovo, Albania and the prospects of unification
Citizens and ruling elites of both countries are prepared to pay lip service to a shared dream but pause when confronted with the practical reality of its realisation.
Albania’s exports continue to outstrip pre-pandemic values
The profile of exports has changed since the pandemic: Albania exports more construction materials and metals, while textiles and footwear exports have fallen.
Albania’s budget deficit at 25-year high in 2020
Economy shrank during the strict spring 2020 lockdown, while the government had to hike spending to support the economy and rebuild after the 2019 earthquake.
BALKAN BLOG: No “Navalnying” in the Balkans is the uncompromising message from Russia
Moscow delivered a stern rebuke over Bulgaria's PM's criticism of opposition politician Navalny's arrest, and has taken a tough tone on several issues in the Western Balkans in recent days.
Albania and Montenegro impose curfews as coronavirus cases rise sharply
Recent rise in infections raises fears of a new wave of the virus.
BEYOND THE BOSPORUS: Soft power in the Balkans, hard power in the Caucasus
A mid-sized power, Turkey wields considerable clout in its near neighbourhood.
Albania has Europe’s lowest minimum wage
Minimum wages were considerably lower in the four Western Balkan states that have set minimum wages than in most EU member states.
Pyramid built to honour Albanian dictator to be turned into digital centre
Work starts on project to turn iconic Tirana building into the region's biggest digital education and innovation centre.
Plans to develop Albania’s air transport run into controversy
NGOs have appealed to the Albanian government to scrap plans to build the new Vlora airport in a protected area, while the opposition has slammed the proposed extension of the concession for Tirana International Airport.