The current economic crisis is the biggest concern for Balkan citizens right now, especially Albanians, according to the 2022 Balkan Barometer survey.

Fifty-nine percent of respondents in Albania ranked the economic situation as their biggest problem, compared to 41% of Bosnians, 40% of Kosovo citizens, 57% of Macedonians, 41% of Montenegrins and 46% of Serbs.

However, Kosovo and Montenegro see unemployment as the biggest problem, but the general state of the economy is a concern even for those who are employed.

The countries of the region, and in particular Albania, suffer from a lack of productivity, resulting in low payments.

After the economic situation and unemployment, Albanians see immigration and brain drain as the third most important problem.

Twenty-nine percent of Albanians think immigration is a concern for the country’s economic prospects, while in other countries in the region the percentage is lower.

In Kosovo and North Macedonia, 20% of citizens see the healthcare system as an important economic issue.

Belief in the socio-economic benefits of EU membership is prevalent in the region, with 60% approving of membership.