Territorial "inequality" between Tirana and other cities - Hasalla: The solution, opening businesses away from the capital
Albania is experiencing a major demographic shift, which is directly affecting not only the social life of cities, but also the country's economy. The concentration of population and businesses in large urban centers, especially in Tirana, is leaving behind smaller cities and rural areas, which are becoming increasingly empty year after year.
"The increase in population in large urban centers, especially in Tirana, has led to the concentration of jobs, businesses and consumer power. Meanwhile, smaller cities and rural areas are facing continuous depopulation, which is severely affecting the economic and social life of these areas. Many young people, after completing their studies, have difficulty finding work in their hometown, so they choose to stay in Tirana. In this way, the concentration of population and businesses increases, creating a clear inequality in the country's economic development ," says Gertjana Hasalla, Employment Expert.
Experts say that this phenomenon is leading to the emptying of cities, the difficulty of providing services, and the general decline of economic activity in entire areas of Albania. The solution, according to them, must come from businesses themselves and regional development policies.
“If companies open their branches in small towns and rural areas, jobs are created and internal migration is encouraged, not leaving the country. Opening factories, businesses and investments in these areas brings back services such as education, health and security, which are today difficult to access in remote areas. The more communities and the more jobs there are in these areas, the better the economy is distributed, the greater the security and stability of life for all citizens.”
As Albania faces the challenge of depopulation and economic inequality, it remains clear that the development of rural areas and small towns is key to a balanced economy and a more sustainable future for the country.
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