The persistence of poverty in Albania: Exploring the role of cultural norms and institutional shortcomings

Abstract

Despite sustained economic growth and structural reforms since the fall of communism, Albania continues to face widespread and persistent poverty, particularly in rural and peri-urban areas. This thesis explores the enduring nature of poverty in Albania by focusing on two often overlooked dimensions: the role of intergenerational cultural belief systems and the inefficiencies of institutional structures. Drawing on the theoretical framework of the cultural belief system theory, the study investigates how values, habits, and social attitudes passed down through generations shape citizens’ perceptions of work, education, and future planning — and how these cultural norms contribute to the normalization of poverty. To examine these dynamics, the research adopts a descriptive quantitative methodology through a structured survey distributed across three geographically and socioeconomically diverse regions of Albania: Burrel (north), Shijak (center), and Librazhd (south). A total of 200 respondents participated, providing insights into their economic conditions, ducational backgrounds, access to public services, and intergenerational value systems. Preliminary findings suggest strong links between poverty persistence and limited political efficacy, diminished future orientation, and dependence on informal support structures. Moreover, the results reveal important regional differences in access to opportunity and attitudes toward mobility and state engagement. While several studies have addressed the economic dimensions of poverty in Albania, this thesis contributes uniquely by highlighting the cultural and political implications of poverty persistence. The study argues that addressing poverty requires more than financial or social programs — it requires confronting the deep-seated cultural norms and institutional weaknesses that allow poverty to reproduce across generations. The findings carry important implications for public policy, particularly in designing long-term, culturally sensitive interventions that promote inclusion, agency, and systemic reform.