Who are the people?
The Republic of Albania, as it is officially known, began making the transition to democracy in 1991. Previously, the nation had been ruled by the most repressive and isolated communist regime in Europe.

The government is officially an “emerging democracy,” but maintaining infrastructure is extremely difficult, especially in rural areas.

There are currently 3.1 million people living in Albania. Most are ethnic Albanians who call themselves Shqipetars, “Sons of the Eagle,” and speak Albanian.

In 1967, the communist government created the world’s first officially atheistic country when it outlawed all religions. Many churches and mosques reopened when the ban was lifted in 1990. Today, Albanians enjoy full religious freedom.

The effects of communism have deeply impacted Albania’s social development. Those who previously relied on the government to provide for them are suffering even greater hardships than before because the state no longer has resources to care for them.

More than a quarter of the population lives below the poverty level, making Albania one of the poorest countries in Europe. Many families are leaving their rural hometowns for urban areas in hopes of finding better jobs and more opportunities. Some parents work abroad in countries like Greece or Italy, sending money home to help support their families.
The Republic of Albania, as it is officially known, began making the transition to democracy in 199

Country Comparison	Albania	United States
Population	3.1 million	295.4 million
Land Mass	11,100 sq. miles	3,537,439 sq. miles
Life Expectancy	74 years	78 years
Infant Mortality Rate (per 1,000)	17	7
Literacy Rate	99%	97%
Primary School Enrollment	95%	92%
Access to Safe Water	97%	100%
Average Annual Income (GNI per capita)	$2,080	$41,400

Religion

What is it like to live there?
Albania is a very mountainous country, with more than 70 percent of the land rising higher than 1,000 feet in elevation. The most rugged mountains are located in the north, while the western coastal region consists primarily of hills and valleys. Farming is often a very difficult task as drainage and water supply problems frequently threaten crops.

In most areas of Albania, the climate consists of hot summers and rainy winters. Freezing temperatures and snow are common in the mountains, while heavy thunderstorms often ravage lowland communities.

Albania was entirely cut off from the outside world throughout most of the 20th century. In 1991, it became the last country to emerge from a communist regime, and has struggled through years of political instability and economic collapse.

An outbreak of civil disorder erupted in 1997, followed by an influx of 460,000 Kosovar refugees in 1998. This increased the burden on the already deteriorating political, economic, and social infrastructures.

World Vision is working to tackle the unnecessary causes of poverty in Albania and improve the quality of life for your sponsored child. Families and communities benefit from improved educational, health care, and development opportunities, thanks to sponsors like you!
Albania is a very mountainous country, with more than 70 percent of the land rising higher than 1,0
Albania Projects
With the support of generous donors like you, World Vision is partnering with families throughout Albania to build brighter futures filled with hope for their children.

Many activities are under way to help meet immediate needs and promote lasting changes that will strengthen communities and move families toward self-reliance.

Overall program goals include:

• Teaching farmers soil preservation and other agricultural techniques to help them grow more nutritious foods for their families.
• Improving health care facilities where sponsored children can receive quality medical care and immunizations.
• Bringing clean drinking water into the homes of more sponsored children and reducing the risk of waterborne disease.
• Ensuring that a quality education is available to all school-age sponsored children.
• Enhancing the learning environment by supplying school furniture and equipment.
• Partnering with local churches to share God’s love with children and families in the community.
• Training community leaders in project management and development skills.

• Pray that your sponsored child might respond to God’s love and grace.
• Ask God to guide your sponsored child as he or she learns, grows, and moves toward a future full of hope and possibilities.
• Pray for God to protect the health of your sponsored child and his or her family.

Unfortunately, at this time, online picture folders are not available from Albania.

You may still be able to sponsor a child from Albania by clicking here and submitting a special request.