INSTAT: Births down 7% in first six months as Albania’s population ages

Albania’s population continues to age and shrink. INSTAT reports 9,644 births in the first six months of 2025, down 7% from 10,325 a year earlier. From April to June there were 4,982 births, a 7.4% annual drop—among the lowest quarterly tallies since 2008. The figures confirm a steady aging trend in Albania’s population.

Why is this important: Fewer births mean fewer young people entering the workforce and a faster rise in the share of elderly citizens. Over time, that pressures schools, pensions and health services, and intensifies the need for policies that support families and improve childcare and housing.

Context: Nearly every county recorded fewer births than a year ago. Tirana, the most populous county, logged 1,982 births, while Gjirokastra had the fewest with 74. Nationally, natural increase was barely positive—just 48 more births than deaths. Tirana posted the strongest balance (+691), while Korçë recorded the weakest (–226), with deaths outnumbering births.

Officials say the sustained fall in births is producing an older population and fewer youth for the labor market. In response, the government is discussing stronger support for young couples and adjustments to the baby bonus to ease costs and encourage family formation.