Albania continues to face a significant decline in population, recording the highest negative rates in the region. According to the latest data from Eurostat, the country ranks among the states with the largest demographic contraction, as a result of high emigration and declining birth rates.

The data show that population change in Albania is mainly driven by a negative migration balance, while natural increase (births minus deaths) remains very low. This distinguishes Albania from several other Western Balkan countries which, although facing population aging, are experiencing more moderate rates of decline.

Eurostat notes that this trend is long-term and is linked to the departure of young people to EU countries, the lack of return of emigrants, and the year-on-year decrease in the number of births. According to these data, Albania is losing population faster than the regional average and faster than some Eastern European countries.

These developments are expected to have a direct impact on the labor market, the pension system, and economic development, making this a major challenge for public policies in the coming years.