Well-known Albanian nutritionist Altin Joka has publicly criticized Albania's disability pension system, sharing the story of his sister to highlight what he describes as the difficult reality faced by people with severe disabilities.
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According to Joka, his sister suffered a serious medical complication following childbirth that caused permanent brain damage and dramatically changed her life. Since then, she has been unable to work or live independently and continues to face significant health challenges.
Despite her condition, Joka says she currently receives a disability pension of only 115,000 old lek per month. He noted that the amount had previously increased to 130,000 old lek before later being reduced to 115,000, a decision he questioned given her permanent disability and ongoing needs.
In his public statement, Joka also criticized the repeated reassessment procedures required for disability beneficiaries. He argued that individuals with irreversible medical conditions are forced to repeatedly undergo medical examinations, collect documents, and appear before review commissions to prove that their condition has not changed.
He described the process as an unnecessary burden on vulnerable citizens already struggling with daily health challenges. According to Joka, the bureaucracy surrounding disability pensions often becomes an additional source of stress for patients and their families.
The case has reignited debate over social protection policies in Albania, particularly regarding disability benefits, pension levels, and the treatment of citizens living with long-term or permanent medical conditions.
Joka's comments have attracted significant attention on social media, with many users expressing concern about the adequacy of disability support and calling for reforms to simplify procedures for individuals with severe and lifelong disabilities.