In a recent episode of his podcast “Flasim,” Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama emphasized Albania’s safety, asserting that the country is actually safer than major European cities like London, Berlin, Milan, and Paris. Rama pointed out that many Albanians are drawn to emigrate based on the idealized, often photoshopped images they see on social media, leading them to believe that life abroad is better than at home.
Rama shared his perspective on the widespread allure of foreign countries, particularly in the context of emigration. “Albanians believe in themselves, but they’re often swayed by what they see on their phones—pictures of the UK, Germany, and other countries—that paint an unrealistic picture of life abroad,” he stated. He stressed that the reality is often very different, with these idealized images masking the true challenges of living in foreign cities.
Highlighting Albania’s safety, Rama noted that many foreigners who visit Albania are impressed by its secure environment, which contrasts with the situation in other European cities. “When I tell people about the safety here, they often respond, ‘What are you talking about? How can Albania be safer than London, Berlin, or Paris?’ But it is. Foreign visitors tell me that they feel safer walking in Albania at night than in these large cities.”
Rama also referred to the popular trend of emigrants sharing their experiences on social media, which often showcase a glossy version of life in foreign cities. However, he insisted that this “Photoshop” perception doesn’t reflect the day-to-day reality faced by migrants who move abroad, as many end up confronting difficulties that they hadn’t anticipated.
The Albanian Prime Minister’s comments aim to challenge the prevailing narrative that life abroad is inherently better, urging citizens to rethink emigration based on social media-driven images. Instead, he called for a focus on the safety and opportunities that Albania can offer.
In conclusion, Rama’s remarks invite a critical examination of the factors influencing emigration decisions, with a focus on the importance of safety and real-life expectations.
