Albania: Country Background Report (CRS Report for Congress)
| Release Date |
June 29, 2000 |
| Report Number |
98-974 |
| Source Agency |
Congressional Research Service |
Summary:
Albania has avoided direct involvement in neighboring Balkan wars, but continues to seek
political
stability and economic recovery. In 1998 and 1999, Albania was on the front line of the Kosovo
crisis that culminated in the NATO air campaign against Yugoslavia. Over 400,000 Kosovar
Albanian refugees flooded across the border into Albania, though most have since returned to
Kosovo under an international protectorate. Albania strongly supported the NATO operation and
seeks closer integration with the alliance and with the European Union. In early 1997, Albania went
through a major financial and social crisis that brought down the Democratic Party-led government.
Elections held in June 1997 brought the Socialist Party to power. In 1999, fierce rivals Fatos Nano
of the Socialist Party and Sali Berisha of the Democratic Party resumed chairmanships of their
respective parties. After one year in office, Prime Minister Pandeli Majko resigned on October 26,
1999, and was replaced by another Socialist Party member, Ilir Meta. Some observers expect that
early elections may be held before their June 2001 scheduled date. This report discusses the
background and status of these and other issues concerning Albania. It may be updated as events
warrant.
