“We Are Studying Without Knowing What Will Happen to Us”: Young Woman Delivers Emotional Speech at Anti-Government Protest in Albania

 On the 74th consecutive day of protests against Prime Minister Edi Rama and his government, young people took center stage in front of the Prime Minister’s Office in Tirana, delivering strong messages about emigration, unemployment and the lack of opportunities for Albania’s younger generation.

 

Speaking on the occasion of Youth Day, a young woman addressed the crowd and criticized what she described as government policies that are forcing Albanian young people to leave the country in search of a future.

“Albania is losing its youth because of the policies created by this government. We are losing the girls and boys who should have been building this country — students, professionals, entrepreneurs and the dreams of an entire generation.”

She highlighted the uncertainty faced by young people who invest years in their education but see few opportunities waiting for them after graduation.

“We are studying without knowing what will happen to us! Only patronage-network supporters have a secure future in Albania! We are struggling to survive in Albania, let alone build a future here. We see our future only abroad because we are not being given a future in Albania.”

The protester also criticized what she described as the concentration of opportunities and public services in Tirana, arguing that young people outside the capital face even greater difficulties.

“Another problem I want to address is that Albania is not only Tirana! Albania also means small towns and villages. Has the government ever thought about them? There are no services, no universities, and social services do not function for young people. When we have a problem, have you ever thought about where we are supposed to turn?”

Her speech reflects one of the most persistent concerns among Albania’s younger generation: whether education and professional qualifications can translate into a stable future inside the country, or whether emigration remains the most realistic option.

The remarks about “patronage-network supporters” represent the speaker’s political allegation and opinion, rather than an independently established fact. Nevertheless, her comments underline the growing frustration expressed by young protesters over employment opportunities, public services and the future of young people outside Tirana.

The protest in front of the Prime Minister’s Office has now continued for 74 consecutive days, with demonstrators maintaining their opposition to Edi Rama’s government.