As part of the Jean Monnet Module “Promoting Knowledge on EU Policy in Fiscal Administration, Climate, and Energy – PRO-Facts”, on April 15, 2025, an impactful open lecture was held by Egis Zaimaj, PhD Candidate and advisor to the Prime Minister’s Cabinet, titled:
🧭 “Middle Income Trap? Policy Pillars for a Smooth, Effective, and Sustainable Transition to High-Income Status”
Held before a diverse academic audience of bachelor and master students, the lecture explored Albania’s current development stage, recent achievements, and future policy pathways to avoid stagnation in the so-called “middle-income trap.”
🔍 Key Highlights from the Lecture:
- Recent National Milestones:
Albania reached upper-middle-income status in 2024, completed the EU screening process, opened the “Fundamentals” cluster, and joined SEPA. - Core Development Challenges:
Persistent youth unemployment, low labor productivity, educational mobility, and private sector lending remain structural concerns. - Three Strategic Pillars for Transition:
- Enterprises – Emphasis on innovation, market sophistication, financial literacy, and a thriving startup ecosystem.
- Talent and Social Mobility – Investments in education quality, inclusion, vocational learning, and skill development.
- Energy – Continued diversification in renewables, policy incentives for green innovation, and decoupling growth from emissions.
- Global Context:
Albania must navigate external pressures such as aging populations, geopolitical risks, and green transition demands while leveraging opportunities for EU integration and foreign investment.
The session concluded by reinforcing the need for stronger financial markets, institutional accountability, and R&D investments as Albania continues its journey toward full EU membership and high-income status. This lecture marked a highlight in the final phase of the PRO-Facts Jean Monnet Module, reflecting its mission to bridge academic knowledge and policymaking in EU-related domains.
