Albania has been ranked first in the world for the number of lost births caused by emigration, according to the latest population projection report from the United Nations. The findings paint a grim picture for the country’s demographic future, with the population expected to shrink and age rapidly in the coming decades.
Experts predict that by 2054, the number of births in Albania will be cut in half compared to 2024. The country saw approximately 22,000 newborns in 2024, a number expected to drop to just 10,000–11,000 by 2050. The primary reason, researchers conclude, is the mass emigration of Albanians—especially women of reproductive age.
Sociologist Entela Binjaku expressed deep concern over the trend, warning of multiple long-term consequences.
“This will first be reflected in the shrinking of the population of the Republic of Albania, secondly in the decline of marriages, and thirdly in the aging of the population,” Binjaku stated.
The report indicates that all countries in the Western Balkans are experiencing similar downward trends in birth rates due to the outflow of young people, especially women. The impact is most severe in countries with low fertility rates, where couples are no longer replacing themselves demographically.
Exceptions to the trend include Italy and Greece, where immigrant populations are still contributing to modest increases in birth rates, offering a temporary demographic buffer.
