Democrats propose consumer card and social welfare reforms
As part of their economic program, Albania’s Democratic Party leader, Sali Berisha, has introduced a new initiative called the Consumer Card. The proposal includes a mechanism for the full reimbursement of VAT on essential basket goods. According to Berisha, this financial relief measure will benefit not only pensioners but also all vulnerable categories in need.
Why is this important: The Democrats have been in opposition for 12 years, during which they have presented various proposals targeting vulnerable groups. However, the Socialist Party, aiming for a fourth consecutive term in government, has dismissed such measures as unrealistic and unfeasible, claiming they lack financial accountability.
Context: Berisha also reiterated a promise to set pensions at a minimum of €200, a proposal that was rejected by the Socialists during discussions on next year’s budget. Additionally, the Democratic Party has pledged to raise the minimum wage to €500 when in power.
According to Berisha, Democratic Party economic experts are working on including a new scheme in their program that would ensure proportional pricing for electricity and water for vulnerable groups.
Berisha also expressed concern over the soaring prices of rental and housing markets, which have become unaffordable in recent years. Analysts attribute this phenomenon to various factors, including the growing number of tourists and foreign nationals—mainly Italians—purchasing apartments in Albania. The opposition, however, argues that the real issue lies in the laundering of informal money through real estate investments, a claim echoed by financial experts and supported by Berisha’s statements.
What’s next: The Democratic Party is expected to continue elaborating its economic program in the lead-up to future elections, focusing on proposals aimed at tackling economic inequality and addressing the rising cost of living. Whether these measures gain traction or face resistance from the Socialist-led government remains to be seen.
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