On the occasion of the meeting of the Socialist International Bureau Council in Patras Some time ago, a group of our children had set off from Tirana for Greece, invited to a holiday camp. They were happy at the thought that they would be welcomed and accompanied with warm and generous feelings. But the reason was entirely unexpected. Among other things, they were seen as “babies of communism.” No one knew them as such, neither in their own country nor abroad. Yet anti-Albanian propaganda, both yesterday and today, has so often been like this that it has still not lost the force of the past. Meanwhile our young people, like every other age group, are feeling acutely the weight of the transition. Economic hardship and social insecurity follow them everywhere. Nevertheless, they are not giving up their aspiration for Europe and civil freedom. This was also evident in the recent meetings with sister organizations of European socialist youth. In Patras, where the Council of the Bureau of the Socialist International met, representatives of our youth found understanding and support. The discussion focused on the need for integration, exchange of experience, and moral support for democratic processes in Albania. Those present praised the efforts to overcome the legacy of isolation and authoritarianism. This meeting also served as an opportunity to challenge the prejudices that still circulate about our country. Some are old, others fed by the rapid developments of recent years. But the truth is that Albanian youth wants to build its future through work, knowledge, and solidarity. Our representatives stressed that young people need education, work, and real opportunities to take part in public life. They also called for more bridges of communication with youth organizations in the region and beyond. The support received in Patras was described as encouraging and valuable for the next steps. In a period when the transition also brings disappointments, preserving faith in democracy is of special importance. This requires not only statements, but also concrete help and ongoing cooperation. It was precisely this spirit that the Patras meeting conveyed. (To be continued on page 3)

Comment on an unprecedented package in parliament The hardest moment these days is confronting a harsh economic reality. The disordered market, shortages, falling production, and uncertainty over wages and pensions make it seem as if there is nothing ahead of us except a series of sacrifices. But sacrifices too require fairness and equal distribution. In the latest parliamentary sessions, saving measures affecting entire groups of people have been mentioned. Some call them necessary; others see them as hasty and lacking social support. What stands out is the lack of a clear vision for getting out of the crisis. One cannot ask only for belt-tightening when a large part of the population can barely secure daily bread. Savings must begin with the administration, with luxury spending, with unjust privileges, and not with the citizen’s most basic needs. If a “savings project” is presented, then it must explain who is being asked to save and why. Without this clarification, any package of measures will be viewed with distrust. All the more so when public trust in institutions remains shaky. Albania needs a reform that gives hope, not just a list of restrictions. Otherwise we risk poverty being declared policy and people’s patience being tested every day. (To be continued on page 3)

Interview with Mr. Vojisllav Koshutica, Vice President of the Socialist Party of Serbia Kosovo is at the center of attention, and Kosovo’s Albanian political leadership has declared a boycott or non-recognition of the referendum. How do you assess this development? — Our party thinks that the Albanian political leadership in Kosovo made a serious mistake by disregarding the referendum. Participation in political processes is the best way to express the will of citizens. — Do you think Albanian-Serbian relations can improve? — That requires dialogue, not closing oneself into frozen positions. There must be more contacts, fewer prejudices, and joint efforts to avoid conflict. — What is the role of socialist parties? — Socialist parties must defend peace, social justice, and coexistence. In the Balkans these values are of particular importance. (ATSH)

Former Austrian chancellor Bruno Kreisky, a well-known figure of European social democracy, has stated that the transformations in Eastern Europe cannot rely on a single individual or leader alone. According to him, strong institutions, a culture of dialogue, and political solidarity are needed. (To be continued on page 3)

From the announcement Yesterday in parliament On the basis of the projects presented recently, the government announced a series of opportunities for improving the economic and social situation. The discussions focused on production, foreign trade, and the need to support the most affected groups. Opposition representatives called for stronger guarantees for the implementation of the measures and transparency in the management of funds. On the other hand, deputies of the majority said that the country has no time for further delays. It was emphasized that recovery requires coordination of fiscal policies with the stimulation of domestic production. Only in this way can more serious social consequences be avoided. (To be continued on page 3)

TOWARDS NEW STANDARDS In resolving the acute problems that are accompanying our country in this period, a special place is occupied by the relationship with foreigners who come and go in Albania. Hospitality, civic behavior, respect for the law, and the ability to communicate with culture are important signs of a democratic society. If we want to be part of Europe, we must learn not only to ask for understanding, but also to give it. It is not enough to complain about the prejudices against us; we must provide proof through behavior, work, and civic responsibility. Often material shortages and everyday turmoil create nervousness and dissatisfaction. But it is precisely in these conditions that civility is measured. A country is judged not only by political programs, but also by the way it treats a guest, a foreigner, an occasional traveler. Hospitality is not a protocol decoration. It is linked to culture, order, service, the language of communication, and the sense of security that is created for the other person. If these are lacking, the country’s image is damaged as well. Today Albania needs new standards. These come not only from laws, but from their implementation and from social education. Hospitality is, in the end, a concrete expression of the level of democracy. (To be continued on page 5)

Drejt drew himself up in the half-dark cushion of the room, because he was once again hearing the dissident complaining about the debt left by his merchant uncle and the political course from Paris, the economist about the land issue, the “deputy minister” of pensions and the head of the division of lawful wages in a neighborhood, the elderly teacher retired from work, the theatre artist with a bitter sense of humor, the exiled specialist and others. At their table, words such as “the winners” and “the losers” are written, but in the present situation no one has gained anything. Only a new awakening is needed.

3,000 couples “saved” the week in Italy The number of divorces and marriages in Italy is moving at new rates. According to the Italian press, around 3,000 couples “were saved” in the last week, giving up on separation after interventions by social and counseling services. (To be continued on page 3)