Why is this important: Agriculture remains a key pillar of Albania’s economy. Sustained growth in production, particularly in vegetables and olives, shows clear potential for exports and rural development. However, the sector’s balance is under pressure, as livestock numbers and dairy output decline, revealing structural weaknesses.

Why is this important: The need for electoral reform has been reiterated by international observers. Both the OSCE’s preliminary report and EU commentary on the May 11 elections underline the failure to implement prior recommendations issued after the 2021 and 2023 elections. Political parties across the spectrum are also calling for deeper reforms, including a potential overhaul of the electoral system itself.

Why is this important: Bar-cafés have become an economic and social institution across Albania, serving not just as places for coffee and conversation but also as informal offices, meeting venues, and hiring hubs. In the past three years alone, more than 4,600 new café businesses have opened, and in 2024, 1,751 people registered as self-employed through café ventures.

Why is this important: The parade has evolved into one of the most symbolic and unifying events for Albanians living in the U.S., celebrating culture, heritage, and national identity in the heart of one of the world’s most diverse cities.

Why is this important: The breach raises renewed concerns about Albania’s cybersecurity vulnerabilities, particularly in the wake of a series of high-profile attacks in 2022 by the same group, that is allegedly sponsored by the Iranian Ministry of Intelligence and Security, that led the Albanian government to cut diplomatic ties with Iran in retaliation. Homeland Justice says it has gained control over the city’s digital infrastructure, extracted data, and wiped servers.