Albania emerges as a fresh tourist attraction
In Albania, the surge in tourism has led to the creation of new job opportunities. Despite this, numerous young individuals continue to envision their professional careers outside of the country, with Germany being a popular destination. What does this trend imply for Albania?
For several decades, Albania was considered one of the world's most secluded nations. Yet, the past is merely a memory now. This Balkan country has opened its doors to the world like never before, drawing tourists to its Riviera and Albanian Alps. Nevertheless, this isn't enough to deter emigration.
Albania shares a similar size with Brandenburg and currently houses approximately 2.4 million residents. According to Anja Quiring, an expert on Albania at the Ost-Ausschuss der deutschen Wirtschaft, the country has suffered a population decline of 14% over the past 12 years. This figure, as Quiring emphasizes, is rather significant.
Caregivers, specifically trained for the German market, are being produced in Albania. While this move helps address the skilled labor shortage in Germany, it poses challenges for Albania itself. According to Quiring, caregivers are needed in Albania too, particularly since numerous Albanians who have spent a significant period working abroad are now looking to retire at home.
Skilled Workers Departing
To what extent is Albania impacted by the loss of skilled labor through emigration? And what can be expected in the future? Stefan Wings, a business consultant, strives to attract foreign investments to Albania, thereby creating job opportunities. As per Wings, this becomes an appealing proposition given the high cost of living in Germany, provided the employers are willing to pay a mid-range salary.
New opportunities are emerging where, and how far along is Albania in its journey to the European Union? Furthermore, what is Albania's stance on Russia? These, along with many other questions, are explored by host Andrea Sellmann with Anja Quiring and Stefan Wings in the latest podcast episode.
Anja Quiring has her focus set on Albania as the Regional Director Southeast Europe at the Ost-Ausschuss der deutschen Wirtschaft. Stefan Wings, on the other hand, serves as the representative for Albania and Kosovo at the Bundesverband mittelständische Wirtschaft, Unternehmerverband Deutschlands e. V. (BVMW). In his Tirana office, Wings plays a crucial role in facilitating opportunities for German SMEs in Albania and fostering relationships between businesses from both countries.
The Commission has acknowledged the significant impact of skilled worker emigration on Albania, highlighting the need for attractive salary offers to entice them to stay. Furthermore, The Commission has expressed concerns about the resulting labor shortage in Albania, particularly in the caregiving sector.
