Albania In Transition Book in PDF, ePub and Kindle version is available to download in english. Read online anytime anywhere directly from your device. Click on the download button below to get a free pdf file of Albania In Transition book. This book definitely worth reading, it is an incredibly well-written.
This book focuses on the trials and tribulations of Albania's efforts to create a democratic political order. It assesses the degree and significance of changes since the early 1990s, providing a detailed account of the transition from Communist Party rule to multiparty competition.
In early 1997, Albania's transition to democracy suffered a serious setback when pyramid schemes sparked violent unrest, plunging the country into its worst political and economic crisis since the downfall of communism. The uprisings and subsequent elections, in which the Socialist Party won a landslide victory, have made front-page news in the int
Catapulted from totalitarianism to free market capitalism in 1991, Albania emerged from half a century of isolation to find itself an anomaly in Europe: a third world country economically and infra-structurally, first world in terms of education, literature and the arts. This portrait of Albania's 'transition' is based on the experiences of a diverse range of families highland villagers, urban elite, shanty dwellers - whose lives the anthropologist author has followed closely since 1992. Village life is conveyed in vivid detail. The villagers deal with the grinding poverty of village life with humour, charm and reslience. Rural life, despite concerted attempts by the communist regime to eradicate 'backwardness', is still pervaded by the archaic world of customary law, a system whose influence spans dispute settlement, forest rights, marriage arrangement and blood-feuds. In the capital, Tirana, members of the former communist elite are courted by innumerable missionary groups and
In the early 1990s, Albania, arguably Europe’s most closed and repressive state, began a startling transition out of forty years of self-imposed Communist isolation. Albanians who were not allowed to practice religion, travel abroad, wear jeans, or read “decadent” Western literature began to devour the outside world. They opened cafés, companies, and newspapers. Previously banned rock music blared in the streets. Modern Albania offers a vivid history of the Albanian Communist regime’s fall and the trials and tribulations that led the country to become the state it is today. The book provides an in-depth look at the Communists' last Politburo meetings and the first student revolts, the fall of the Stalinist regime, the outflows of refugees, the crash of the massive pyramid-loan schemes, the war in neighboring Kosovo, and Albania’s relationship with the United States. Fred Abrahams weaves together personal experience from more than twenty years of work in Albania, interviews with key Albanians and foreigners who played a role in the country’s politics since 1990—including former Politburo members, opposition leaders, intelligence agents, diplomats, and founders of the Kosovo Liberation Army—and a close examination of hundreds of previously secret government records from Albania and the United States. A rich, narratively-driven account, Modern Albania gives readers a front-row seat to the dramatic events of the last battle of Cold War Europe.
Albania's Economy in Transition and Turmoil 1990-97 by Anthony Clunies-Ross,Petar Sudar Pdf
First published in 1998, the contents of this book is the result of a series of studies by several Albanian scholars, in cooperation with contributors of differing nationalities, on various aspects of the Albanian economy during its ‘transition to market’. This study’s multiple aim is to provide an accessible body of information for outsiders interested in Albania ; to provide locally based teaching material for Albanian economics students; and to also clarify policy issues.
Free: A Child and a Country at the End of History by Lea Ypi Pdf
Shortlisted for the 2021 Baillie Gifford Prize for Non-Fiction Shortlisted for the 2021 Costa Biography Award The Sunday Times Best Book of the Year in Biography and Memoir A Financial Times Best Book of 2021 (Critics' Picks) The New Yorker, Best Books We Read in 2021 Times Literary Supplement Book of the Year 2021 A Guardian Best Book of the Year A reflection on "freedom" in a dramatic, beautifully written memoir of the end of Communism in the Balkans. For precocious 11-year-old Lea Ypi, Albania’s Soviet-style socialism held the promise of a preordained future, a guarantee of security among enthusiastic comrades. That is, until she found herself clinging to a stone statue of Joseph Stalin, newly beheaded by student protests. Communism had failed to deliver the promised utopia. One’s “biography”—class status and other associations long in the past—put strict boundaries around one’s individual future. When Lea’s parents spoke of relatives going to “university” or “graduating,” they were speaking of grave secrets Lea struggled to unveil. And when the early ’90s saw Albania and other Balkan countries exuberantly begin a transition to the “free market,” Western ideals of freedom delivered chaos: a dystopia of pyramid schemes, organized crime, and sex trafficking. With her elegant, intellectual, French-speaking grandmother; her radical-chic father; and her staunchly anti-socialist, Thatcherite mother to guide her through these disorienting times, Lea had a political education of the most colorful sort—here recounted with outstanding literary talent. Now one of the world’s most dynamic young political thinkers and a prominent leftist voice in the United Kingdom, Lea offers a fresh and invigorating perspective on the relation between the personal and the political, between values and identity, posing urgent questions about the cost of freedom.
This book is a contribution by a diverse group of authors from the academic, business and policy advice communities to our understanding of recent social and economic developments in Albania. The motivation for this book is that there are lessons of wider importance to be learnt from the fascinating story of recent Albanian developments. Michael Kaser opens the book with a recounting of the country's history and political economy before and during transition. He brings to the job nearly six decades of professional experience as a diplomat and academic and an intimate knowledge of Albania. This chapter provides a detailed political history during transition up to late 2004. Dirk Bezemer contributes an analysis of the collapse in early 1997 of the economy and society brought about by Ponzi schemes. He links the lack of productivity growth and the growth of a 'virtual' financial sector to policy practice focusing on macro stability and state abstinence from interfering in sectoral issues - policies which are still common in many transition and developing economies. Albania has implemented tight monetary policy, stabilised the exchange rate, implemented prudent fiscal polices, and achieved a significant reduction in domestic borrowing, all contributing to the decline of the overall deficit. Based on his expertise as an IMF analyst, Treichel discusses Albania's macroeconomic prospects. Nevila Konica documents the large Albanian emigration flows during transition, leading to an estimated ten percent of the population working outside Albanian territory. Based on her large primary survey data set, she explores personal attributes that characterise emigrants, as well as the extent of the 'brain drain'. She finds that remittances from emigration have been vitally important to Albania's economy by contributing to household incomes and reducing domestic unemployment. Klarita Gerxhani delves deeper into the nature of the informal economy and presents key insights from her original academic research based on fieldwork in Tirana. In her study of the street vending sector she traces its emergence to clear 'push' and 'pull' factors. emigration issue in the broader context of labour market developments. They analyse the large regional differences in unemployment rate, the large share of long-term unemployment and the persistently higher-than-average unemployment rate and falling participation rate for women. They also conclude that emigration reduced the pressure of unemployment in the labour market and on the government's budget, and contributed to financing imports, consumption and investments through remittances. Gloria La Cava uses her research experience as World Bank Senior Social Scientist specialising in the region to address, jointly with co-author Rafaella Nanetti, the changing socio-economic conditions that Albanians face. They focus on the nature of people's vulnerability resulting from a loss of social support during the transformation years, and on social programs addressing new needs. World Bank analyst Malcolm Childress discusses the 'unfinished business of land and property reform' in Albania. emergence of a dynamic land market and the sustained supply response which was expected. Urban property privatisation has fostered a construction boom in Tirana and along the coast and the creation of large areas of informal settlement on the outskirts of Tirana and Durres. Childress provides an insightful discussion of possible consequences. In the final chapter on agriculture, Pasquale Pazienza highlight key problems of land fragmentation and under-investment (particularly in the irrigation system), illuminating the current situation with the post-war history of agricultural and land reforms. He explores the determinants of productivity in a production function framework taking a long-term view, and draws out implication for what is still the largest sector in Albania's economy.
The End of Communist Rule in Albania by Shinasi A. Rama Pdf
This book provides a comprehensive examination of the Albanian Student Movement of 1990–1991. To date, there are no thorough studies of the first year of the post-Communist transition in Albania, which constitutes the most critical period of transition. The lessons to be learned are vast and of great importance to the debates on social movements, mobilization, and transition. Renowned scholars of modern Albanian history, led by the former leader of the Albanian Student Movement, Shinasi A. Rama, provide a study of the critical role played by this movement in the political transformation of Albania from a totalitarian cult-state to a multiparty political system during 1990–1991. Their informed analyses combined with first-hand knowledge of the events during a key period of Albanian history shed light on the Student Movement, its ideology, values, contributions, and its relationship to the system and to the ruling caste. The authors come to the core conclusion that the Student Movement remained an independent player that achieved change in the political system at a crucial juncture. The End of Communist Rule in Albania is a much-needed contribution in the fields of social movements, democratization studies, Communist and Post-Communist politics, and Albanian Studies.
Embark on a transformative journey with "Relocating to Albania," your indispensable companion for a seamless transition to this enchanting Balkan nation. Whether you're drawn to Albania's rich history, stunning landscapes, or vibrant culture, this comprehensive guide is designed to make your relocation experience smooth, rewarding, and filled with unforgettable moments. In this expertly crafted guide, you'll find a treasure trove of insights, practical tips, and cultural wisdom to guide you through every step of the relocation process. From understanding visa requirements and finding the perfect accommodation to immersing yourself in the local culture and building a fulfilling social circle, each chapter is a roadmap for a successful and enriching life in Albania. Key Features: Cultural Odyssey: Uncover the nuances of Albanian culture, from traditional customs to modern lifestyles. Learn essential phrases and etiquette to effortlessly navigate daily interactions. Practical Planning: Navigate the bureaucratic landscape with ease, understanding visa processes, legal requirements, and essential documentation. This guide provides a roadmap to streamline your move and ensure a hassle-free transition. Housing Haven: Discover the perfect place to call home. Explore diverse neighborhoods, learn about rental markets, and find accommodation options that suit your lifestyle and preferences. Language and Connection: Break down language barriers and connect with locals. Dive into language learning strategies and immerse yourself in the vibrant social fabric of Albania, building connections that go beyond borders. Education and Employment: Whether you're pursuing educational opportunities or seeking employment, this guide provides insights into Albania's education system and job market, ensuring a successful professional and personal life. Adventures Await: Explore the breathtaking landscapes, cultural gems, and outdoor wonders that Albania has to offer. From the historic streets of Tirana to the pristine beaches of the Albanian Riviera, every corner invites you on an unforgettable journey. Community and Support: Forge meaningful connections with fellow expatriates and locals. Navigate the intricacies of social dynamics and discover support systems that make you feel at home. "Relocating to Albania" is more than a guide; it's a companion for those seeking to embrace the allure of this hidden gem in the heart of the Balkans. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or embarking on your first international move, this book is your passport to a seamless transition, cultural enrichment, and the promise of a fulfilling life in Albania. Let the adventure begin!
Albanian Transition. The Contrast between Eastern Mentality and European Identity by Afrim Krasniqi Pdf
Essay from the year 2014 in the subject Politics - International Politics - Region: Other States, grade: A, University of Tirana (Albanian Institute of Political Studies), language: English, abstract: During the last two decades leading Albanian political actors have developed political activity based on two parallel indicator: western formal models and marketing electoral programs, as well as eastern oriental model in the way they have designed and developed policy, elections, internal democracy and public discourse. Being correct to western formal models came as foreign imposition, as needed impersonation in terms of lack of experience and practical knowledge, as well as the response of major civic expectations. The conclusion of this material is that we are dealing with continuous coexistence between Western model in programs and eastern model in practical implementation of these programs. Practical application of a parallel political system, in values, methods and political discourse was due to domestic consumption needs, fragility in the formation of political culture, local recognition of the dominant methods in politics and the pursuit of short-term political goals. This thesis paper aims to analyze the formal western presentation of the two main political parties and their leaders during the transition, and to make this analysis in comparative relation to feeds and real features in daily political activity. Part of the study are the programs and the most important political positions, international relations associated with the level of democracy and the role of political parties in shaping a democratic, professional studies in the field of political behavior and political discourse.
Albania is one of the youngest European states and the last country to emerge from the collapse of Ottoman Turkish power at the beginning of the 20th century. Underlying Albania's often-turbulent history is an extraordinary archaeological heritage of international significance, the evidence of which is to be found everywhere in the cities and countryside, hills and mountains. Each year, thousands of tourists visit Albania, drawn primarily to the vast archaeological site at Butrint - now almost forgotten, but viewed by historians as the Marseilles of its time as late as the Middle Ages - but also experiencing a number of the other archaeological and heritage sites which Albania has to offer, including Shkodra, Apollonia, and Berat. In addition to these sites, there are a number of lesser-known, but nonetheless exquisite sites and monuments which visitors are often unaware of. This guide provides a unique introduction to 50 of Albania's archaeological sites, enabling visitors to enjoy the best-known sites, but also to venture out to the more remote monuments, many in stunning locations. This book will lead the visitor in the footsteps of Odysseus, Caesar and Lord Byron, through Illyrian valleys and over breathtaking mountain passes to explore the beautiful country of Albania and its archaeological heritage.
