Albania

Overview

In 1992, Albania elected its first non-communist president since before World War II. Emerging as a democratic state after years of communist rule, Albania has had to deal with many challenges, including high unemployment and an aging infrastructure. While still considered the poorest of the Eastern European states, it is currently one of the most rapidly developing countries in the region, with tourism one of its fastest growing industries.

While Albanian citizens have one of the world’s longest life expectancies (almost 78 years), the country has a median age of 29; this combination makes strengthening the economy and providing social services especially important.

Need

Albania was never home to a large Jewish population, and most Jews immigrated to Israel after the fall of the Soviet Union. The few Jews who still remain in Albania are in need of both social service support and help in exploring their Jewish heritage and strengthening their Jewish identity following decades of strict communist repression.

Response

JDC provides welfare services to Holocaust survivors, including cash assistance and medical care. It also works to support spiritual well-being through Jewish educational materials and holiday celebrations.

Impact

While this community numbers less than 40, JDC remains committed to its survival and to ensuring a Jewish future for its members. Every year, JDC helps three families with cash assistance; it sends in books about Judaism and Jewish magazines; and it supplies the community with matzah for Pesach and religious supplies.

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