Prime Minister Edi Rama has revealed the reason why Albania is depopulating during a recent interview with Ukrainian influencer Max Klymenko, where he described Albanian society itself as the biggest challenge and threat to the country’s future. The statement has sparked a strong wave of reactions, while critics see it as an indicator of hatred and failure to hold accountable after 13 years in power.
Instead of acknowledging the failures of his policies that have led to the mass exodus of citizens, the head of government has chosen to point the finger at his own people. This approach has raised serious questions about how 13 years of governance have been insufficient to bring the country into the light and stop emigration.
Meanwhile, waves of protests at home and abroad testify to a growing revolt among Albanians against this official narrative. Despite the obvious dissatisfaction, Rama’s message again asks for time for the Socialist Party to improve the country, challenging the patience of citizens. His latest discourse has further deepened the gap between the executive’s priorities and the difficult reality that Albanian families face every day.
For many political observers, blaming society itself is a clear attempt to cover up the real economic and social causes of the country’s depopulation. This incident is expected to remain at the center of public debate as pressure on the government for accountability reaches its peak.
Excerpt from the interview:
Max Klymenko: The Prime Minister of Albania should be in this room. The Prime Minister of Albania should be in this room. There’s no one here. Albania has one of the most beautiful flags in existence. Oh, hello.
Edi Rama: Hello.
Max Klymenko: How are you doing?
Edi Rama: Okay.
Max Klymenko: I just want to ask you a few questions, if that’s okay.
Edi Rama: Of course.
Max Klymenko: What would you say is the most difficult part of your job?
Edi Rama: Don’t go crazy.
Max Klymenko: And what is your favorite part of the job?
Edi Rama: Things that are good for people.
Max Klymenko: How is Albania helping Ukraine?
Edi Rama: Listen, we have tried to do our best. We are not a big country. We are not even a rich country. But we have been by her side with everything we could.
Max Klymenko: In your opinion, what is the biggest threat to Albania?
Edi Rama: The biggest threat to Albania is the Albanians, in the sense that we must be aware that we have a lot of work to do and we must continue on the path towards the European Union. And once we are within the European Union, we will be safe from ourselves.
Max Klymenko: Your job is the second most sleep-deprived job in the world. Only doctors sleep less than politicians. How much sleep do you usually get?
Edi Rama: On average, five hours, it could be even less.
Max Klymenko: Which world leader would you say you have the best relationship with? And which would you say you have the most challenging relationship with?
Edi Rama: I have good relations with everyone. Perhaps the best relationship is with Georgia. We also have a special relationship between Albania and Italy. I had a very challenging relationship with Mark Rutte when he was prime minister of the Netherlands. But then we became very good friends and we have a special friendship. And he is, without a doubt, the man who knows how to manage Donald Trump better.
Max Klymenko: How many professions have you had in your life? If you could list some of the things you’ve done.
Edi Rama: I was a full-time artist and then I became… Did I become a politician? I hope not. But, otherwise, I did a lot of things. I played basketball, I made it to the national team, not because I was very good, but because I was tall.
Max Klymenko: Are you happy for the Knicks?
Edi Rama: I no longer watch basketball with the black jerseys off the court. It’s not the same sport anymore.
Max Klymenko: And finally, I see we have to go. Finally, my question to you is: what advice would you give to a young person today?
Edi Rama: Listen, when I was a kid, I was always very, very embarrassed when I had to get advice. And when I became a young man, I promised myself that once I became an adult, I would never give advice to young people. It’s not a good idea.