Since the dissolution of the former Yugoslavia and the subsequent independence of the new states in the early 1990s, the relationship between the EU and the Western Balkan has been intricate. The region's path toward establishing new statehoods through self-determination was fraught with challenges. The initial decade of transition was characterized by conflict resolution efforts and the international community endeavors to ensure peace. A new perspective arises in the second decade by bringing these countries toward a common destination to European Union. The third decade unfolds among many hopes and expectations, new challenges and struggles for both the EU and Western Balkan countries. Although the EU has served as a guiding compass, for Western Balkan states, internal obstacles and structural deficiencies have decelerated, and in some cases, diverted the path toward a swifter integration into the union for many of these countries.
Even though Albania has earlier established relations with the EU compared to other Western Balkan countries, it has faced its own multifaceted challenges along the way. The country has experienced a declining population due to emigration, which has occurred in various waves throughout the transition decades, marked recently by a severe brain drain. Unfortunately, the EU’s promises have not yielded significant results, causing a shift in perceptions among Albanian youth, particularly in the past 8–10 years. This change in perception can be attributed to a series of internal crises the EU has faced, the prolonged hesitation to initiate accession talks with Albania and North Macedonia from 2018–2020, and the sluggishness of the political class in implementing necessary reforms.
This study aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the diverse views and perceptions surrounding the presence and role of the EU, as well as the EU integration path of Albania. The primary objective is to gain insightful perspectives into the underlying factors that contribute to discontent and pessimism among the youth population, often leading them towards a predisposition to leave the country. To achieve this, a qualitative approach will be adopted, employing two focus groups interviews with students to assess if any prevalence of (Euro)scepticism among younger generations unfolds. By examining perceptions, opinions, and identifying sources of insecurity and resentment, the research endeavours to shed light on the impact of these sources of discontent on the expectations of young individuals regarding the ongoing integration process. Lastly, the conclusion and recommendations will propose strategies to sustain the current level of hope and encourage young people to contribute actively to their country’s development and the EU perspective.
