Albania’s parliament has approved the 2025 budget, setting spending at 822.7 billion leks. The ruling Socialist Party rejected opposition proposals to raise pensions, prompting heated criticism.
The budget, passed with 75 votes in favor and 24 against, focuses on economic growth, debt reduction, and investments in key sectors like healthcare, education, and agriculture. Public projects, including tourism and infrastructure improvements, will see 162 billion leks in funding, or 6.2% of GDP.
Opposition backlash
The Democratic Party (DP) proposed 34 changes to the budget, including pension hikes and bonuses, but all were voted down by the majority.
“Albanians deserve what was promised to them, not excuses,” said DP leader Gazment Bardhi. “By rejecting these amendments, the government shows it prioritizes itself over the people.”
Finance Minister Petrit Malaj defended the decision, calling the proposals unrealistic. He said they would push public debt above 73.7% of GDP and inflate the budget deficit to 20%.
“These changes would create a second budget,” Malaj said. “The opposition only provides funding for 6% of what they are asking for. This government focuses on sustainable growth, not reckless promises.”
What’s included?
The 2025 budget aims to lower public debt to 55.8% of GDP, slightly down from 56.3% expected by the end of this year. Funds are set aside for pension bonuses and indexing, but no increases were approved.
Other priorities include boosting tourism, digital services, and agriculture while maintaining fiscal discipline to benefit future generations.
The takeaway
The 2025 budget moves forward without major pension changes, leaving opposition calls for greater social support unanswered. The divide between government and opposition remains sharp as debates over public spending continue.
