Albania Country Report

Albania is politically stable, although it suffers from occasional periods of anti-government political unrest. Despite ongoing modernisation efforts, Albania remains one of the poorest countries in Europe, impeded with inadequate infrastructure and a large informal sector that hinders economic growth. The country is open to foreign investment, although investors frequently face problems such as political and institutional corruption, heavy bureaucracy, and frequent changes in the country's legal framework. Organized crime also contributes to a poor security and regulatory environment. The primary threat to travelers is from petty theft. Violent crime is widespread, but incidents tend to involve competing organized criminal groups and foreign travelers are rarely affected. Poor transport infrastructure, particularly in rural areas outside of major cities, dangerous local driving habits and landmines in northern regions can make travel throughout the country hazardous. Large-scale anti-government protests can also occur at short notice.

Albania does not face a threat of conflict at this time. Islamic terrorists are suspected of operating in the country, although no attacks have been carried out. Theft, including pick-pocketing and bag-snatching, is a significant concern for travelers. There is a high rate of violent crime, although this is mainly linked to organized crime.

There are no specific concerns around air travel in the country.

Roads may be poor in rural and mountainous areas. Road traffic fatality rates are amongst the highest in Europe.

The Port of Durrës is an efficient seaport in Albania.

Albania is almost entirely dependent on hydropower for its electricity supply while most of the water utilities in Albania continue to perform poorly. Street lighting in urban areas is subject to power cuts.

There is a threat of cyber attacks, particularly from Iran.

Albania is located in a seismically active region and experiences occasional earthquakes. The rainy season, typically between December and February, can bring extensive flooding, especially in the north of the country. Landmines and unexploded ordnance (UXO) pose a significant danger near the border with Kosovo. These areas are identified in Albanian as danger zones and most are clearly marked.

Medical care in Albania remains significantly below international standards, and medical facilities outside Tirana have limited capabilities. The quality control of pharmaceuticals is poor, and some prescription drugs may not be available. Vaccines before travel are required, for example, yellow fever. Tap water is not considered safe for drinking unless otherwise directed.

Albania is a unitary multi-party parliamentary republic. The Prime Minister is the head of government, and the President is the head of state. The President, the Prime Minister, and the Cabinet form the government and exercise executive power. Presidential elections take place once every five years. The unicameral Parliament exercises legislative power. Parliamentary elections take place once every four years. The judiciary is nominally independent of the executive and the legislature but is widely regarded as corrupt and vulnerable to external pressures.

Coalitions featuring a cross-section of political parties are rarely required to form the government. Government collapses are uncommon. State institutions are moderately effective and provide reliable services across most of the country. Rural areas may have limited services.