Jorida Tabaku, an MP from the Democratic Party, has introduced a new law aimed at increasing miners’ pensions. Supported by opposition colleagues, the proposal seeks to address long-standing dissatisfaction with the current pension scheme, which many argue has failed to meet miners’ needs.

Why is this important: For decades, miners have felt abandoned by consecutive governments, that have promised pension reforms but failed to deliver meaningful changes especially as it pertains to miners. The current pensions—starting at 40,000 lek or 400 euros—are too low to meet basic living costs, especially with rising inflation. Many miners say they can no longer afford essentials, and this proposal aims to provide the financial relief they need while restoring fairness to the pension system.

What was said: Tabaku accused the government of offering only symbolic pension adjustments. “Miners were promised significant increases, but those promises turned out to be empty words,” she said. “They deserve more than token increases handed out for electoral gain.”

Proposal: The proposed law also challenges the government’s spending priorities, with the opposition criticizing the misuse of state funds. According to Tabaku, billions of lek have been allocated to PPPs and concession projects while miners continue to receive inadequate pensions.

Currently, over 1,000 miners receive pensions, and more than 13,000 hold official miner status. Inflation and rising living costs have further strained these pensioners, leaving many unable to make ends meet. The opposition argues that the new legislation would establish a fairer pension scheme that reflects the real value of miners’ contributions.

Lawmakers stress the importance of passing the bill without delay. “Miners cannot wait any longer,” Tabaku said. “They deserve fair pensions that match the realities of today’s economy and honor their years of hard work.”