Economy concerns dominate in NDI survey

TIRANA, March 20 – The poor economy, low incomes, and unemployment are the most pressing concerns for most Albanians, according to a survey by the National Democratic Institute (NDI) carried out last December six months of the general elections and three months after a new government took place.
“A majority of participants perceive the economy as poor, prices generally high, and unemployment as an acute problem, especially for young people. They claim their family incomes are insufficient to cover basic monthly necessities, including utility bills, groceries and medications,” showed the survey conducted in the regions of Tirana, Elbasan, Fier, Kor衠and Shkodra.
Participants expect the government to deliver on promises related to creating new jobs and attracting investment, viewing the government as responsible for providing solutions to citizens’ pressing concerns regarding unemployment, high prices and low salaries. Very few participants view the private sector and business community as capable and/or responsible for providing such solutions.
“Focus group participants view corruption as ever-present in their daily lives. The majority of participants consider pervasive corruption as the main factor contributing to poor public service standards, bad governance, impunity before the law, and arbitrariness of law enforcement. Participants see healthcare, followed by the judiciary system and education, as the most corrupt and inefficient sectors. A number of participants view corruption as necessary to get things done and admit that citizens themselves perpetuate corrupt practices.”