Albania’s political parties are intensifying their campaigns ahead of the May 11 parliamentary elections, where voters will elect 140 lawmakers for a four-year term amid growing calls for real change.
A total of 53 parties and three electoral coalitions are registered for the vote, with 3.7 million Albanians eligible to cast ballots — including over 114,000 first-time voters.
Voters, particularly young Albanians, are calling for concrete improvements in employment, healthcare, education, economic opportunities, and faster European Union integration.
“I want to live and work here, not leave,” said Artemisa Geca, 22, a manager in a private company. She urged for policies that empower youth and curb emigration.
Lorenc Zaka, 47, a construction worker, said he will vote for the first time in decades, hoping for “more jobs, better living standards, and faster EU membership.”
Similarly, Deborah Muçolli, 28, who works in an NGO, stressed that the elections are critical for Albania’s future economic prosperity and alignment with the EU.
Mechanic Kasem Agia, 56, emphasized the need for reforms in education, healthcare, and employment to retain young people in the country.
Meanwhile, Lalush Ago, a 71-year-old pensioner, called for stronger support for retirees and said Albania’s EU membership is “essential.”
Despite significant progress, public frustration over slow reforms and emigration remains high, with many voters seeing May 11 as a pivotal moment for Albania’s trajectory.
