Albania plans to help 10,000 young people find jobs in 2027 through its Youth Guarantee Programme. To support this goal, the government has allocated nearly €60 million, Economy and Innovation Minister Delina Ibrahimaj said.

Speaking to Euronews Albania, Ibrahimaj explained that the government developed the programme in cooperation with the European Union. It will offer employment and vocational training to young people aged up to 29.

The government piloted the programme in 2026. Now, it plans to expand it nationwide in 2027. According to Ibrahimaj, the initiative builds on similar schemes that have proved successful in EU member states and candidate countries.

“We need to sit down with young people and develop programmes that meet their needs,” she said. She added that the government had included the funding in its 2027 budget. Moreover, the programme aims to equip young people with the skills employers need.

Ibrahimaj also invited students to discuss the government’s existing initiatives. She acknowledged that misinformation may have fuelled some concerns. Therefore, she said, direct talks could clarify the programmes and address students’ questions.

However, she noted that the demands raised during recent protests remain broad. By contrast, students in 2018 presented specific proposals to address problems affecting their daily lives.

Government plans 7,000 affordable housing units

Meanwhile, Ibrahimaj announced new housing measures after the Council of Ministers approved amendments to the housing law. The changes would extend support beyond social housing programmes. They would also help middle-income households, students, young professionals and young families access affordable homes.

Subject to parliamentary approval, the government plans to make 7,000 housing units available from late November or early December.

Under the proposed package, 3,000 apartments would receive a 50% rent subsidy. In addition, the government would offer 2,000 apartments through zero-interest loans. Another 2,000 units would be available through loans with a subsidised 3% interest rate.

Together, these measures aim to help young people and families secure their first homes. At the same time, they would reduce rental costs and make home financing more affordable. The state would cover the subsidised interest costs under the proposed scheme.

Finally, Ibrahimaj said the housing package forms part of the government’s broader efforts to ease living costs for young couples, professionals and families.