19.07.2021 – 08:06
Albania and Montenegro were the two countries most affected by the pandemic in 2020 due to high dependence on the tourism sector.
In the Balkan Barometer conducted by the Regional Cooperation Council, it turned out that the two countries had the highest percentage of the population that does not meet the basic monthly needs for food and clothing during 2020.
The survey results showed that 15% of households in Montenegro and 14% of households in Albania had difficulty in providing basic food items and clothing. On the other hand, Kosovo had the lowest percentage of households that did not meet their basic monthly needs at only 4 percent and Bosnia at only 7%. In Serbia 10 percent of households stated that they do not meet basic needs and in Macedonia 11% of households.
All countries in the region, including Albania, have improved their ability to afford monthly utility bills, such as rent, electricity and water. According to the survey results, 83% of all survey participants do not find it difficult to pay rent and other bills, compared to 17% who do not find themselves in the same situation.
In Albania, 39 percent of families reported not being able to afford one week of vacation per year, compared to 60% who considered it affordable. In the Region 59% of respondents are able to afford a week of vacation in the Region, compared to 36% of others who consider it a luxury.
77% of participants in the regional survey can afford a loan installment, while 14% express otherwise. While the majority of citizens (88%) are able to afford food and clothes, but 10% of citizens in the Region are forced to meet basic monthly needs.
The volume of remittances has shrunk by 5% at the regional level. About 19 percent of households in the Region reported receiving assistance from abroad in 2020 from 24% in 2020.
Perceived levels of nepotism in employment remain a major concern throughout the Region. Confidence in employers both in the state and in private is very low throughout the Region, and this concern should be addressed, suggested the Regional Cooperation Council.
On the other hand, employers consider inadequate education and lack of work experience as obstacles to employment./B.Hoxha/Monitor
