What is Albania?
Albania is a small yet culturally rich country located in Southeastern Europe, on the Balkan Peninsula. Known for its beautiful coastline along the Adriatic and Ionian seas, Albania is a nation of ancient history, with influences from the Illyrians, Romans, and Ottoman Empire. Its capital, Tirana, is the largest city and the political and cultural heart of the country.
Provinces and Territories
Albania is divided into 12 counties, which are further subdivided into municipalities. These counties include:
- Berat
- Shkodër
- Durrës
- Vlorë
- Fier
- Elbasan
- Tiranë
- Korçë
- Kukës
- Lezhë
- Gjirokastër
- Mat
Currency Details
- Currency Name: Albanian lek (ALL)
- Symbol: L
- Subunit: Qindarkë (1 lek = 100 qindarkë)
- Central Bank: Bank of Albania
Type of Government
Albania is a parliamentary republic. The political system is based on a multi-party system, where the President serves as the head of state, while the Prime Minister is the head of government. The Parliament is responsible for making laws.
Detailed Hierarchy of Government Roles
Executive Branch Hierarchy
| Position | Role Description | Power & Responsibilities |
|---|---|---|
| President | Head of State | Elected by the Parliament for a 5-year term. Represents the nation in foreign affairs. |
| Prime Minister | Head of Government | Appointed by the President, leads the government and implements policies. |
| Cabinet Ministers | Senior Government Officials | Manage key ministries such as Finance, Education, and Defense. |
| Public Servants | Civil Servants | Carry out the government’s policies and daily administration. |
Legislative Branch Hierarchy
| Position | Role Description | Power & Responsibilities |
|---|---|---|
| Parliament (Kuvendi) | Unicameral Legislature | Consists of 140 members, who are elected for 4-year terms. Responsible for making laws. |
| Speaker of Parliament | Presides over Parliamentary sessions | Maintains order and ensures smooth functioning of legislative procedures. |
| Deputies | Members of Parliament | Debate and vote on proposed laws, allocate the national budget, and scrutinize government actions. |
Judicial Branch Hierarchy
| Position | Role Description | Power & Responsibilities |
|---|---|---|
| Supreme Court | Highest Judicial Authority | Responsible for interpreting the law and overseeing the functioning of the lower courts. |
| Constitutional Court | Reviews the constitutionality of laws | Ensures that laws align with Albania’s Constitution. |
| District Courts | Lower level courts | Handle civil, criminal, and administrative cases. |
| Judges | Judicial officers | Appointed to preside over cases in the courts. |
International Memberships
- United Nations (UN)
- NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization)
- World Trade Organization (WTO)
- Council of Europe
- European Union (EU) candidate
Military Structure
Albania has a small but modernized military force. The branches of the military include:
- Army
- Navy
- Air Force
The country also participates in international peacekeeping missions and collaborates with NATO forces.
Secret Agencies
- Shërbimi Informativ Shtetëror (SHISH): National Intelligence Service
- Policia e Shtetit: National Police
Stock Markets
Albania does not have a major stock market. However, the Albanian Stock Exchange is in development as part of the country’s economic reforms to integrate more fully into the EU.
Emergency Numbers
- General Emergency: 112
- Police: 129
- Fire Department: 128
- Ambulance: 127
SWOT Analysis of Albania
Strengths
- Rich cultural heritage
- Strategic location in the Balkans
- Growing tourism sector
Weaknesses
- Limited infrastructure development
- High unemployment rate
- Corruption challenges
Opportunities
- EU integration and economic growth
- Expanding energy and infrastructure sectors
- Eco-tourism and environmental preservation
Threats
- Political instability in the region
- Natural disasters (earthquakes, floods)
- Migration pressures
Additional Information
- Official Language: Albanian
- Time Zone: Central European Time (CET, UTC +1)
- National Anthem: “Himni i flamurit” (Anthem of the Flag)