Children are at risk
Life in Albania has improved for many, but the vulnerable population continue to be overlooked. Unemployment, poverty and violence is amplified for those in difficult situations. Without sufficient social support, these problems can be hard to escape. Children and young people who grow up in these circumstances need special support so that they can go to school and grow up in a healthy and safe environment. Young people need targeted assistance so that they can find a way of making a living and become independent.
1 in 3
Children in Albania are at risk of poverty
Poverty
Poverty in Albania has decreased in the recent past, but many families at risk continue to live in hardship. 30% of children in the country are at risk of poverty.
Unemployment continues to affect many families, with many parents unable to afford suitable housing or daily necessities for themselves and their children.
The difficulties of life in poverty can often be too hard for families to cope with, and these families need extra support so that they can stay together.
48%
Of children have been treated aggressively
Violence
Violence and abuse of children is still an issue in some parts of Albanian society. Children are exposed to violence at home, at school and in the community.
Not only is there a risk to children’s safety, but there are serious long-term effects on their physical and emotional development.
Efforts have been made to raise awareness and stop violence, but 1 in 2 children have still been subjected to psychological or physical aggression.
1 in 4
Young people in Albania are unable to find work
Youth unemployment
Unemployment is a widespread issue in Albania, but young people are at a particular disadvantage: 26% of young people who are actively looking for a job are unable to find one.
Young people do not have many opportunities for further vocational education or training. For young people from disadvantaged backgrounds, these opportunities are even more limited.
Without the right education, young people in Albania are unable to reach their full potential.
Together we can make a difference for children in Albania
Are supported in the community
13
Young people and adults
Can attend trainings
50
Children and young people
Grow up in our care
Are supported on their way to independence
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In Albania, we provide support and assistance to families. The support varies according to the needs of each family, and we draw up a joint plan with them. The aim is to ensure that the family becomes a stable and caring environment where children and young people can grow up (photo: Bo Holmberg).
Working together for sustainable development
In 2015, leaders from 193 countries committed to the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. This 15 year plan aims to improve the lives of people by ending poverty, fighting inequality and protecting the planet.
GOAL 1: End poverty
SOS Children’s Villages supports families and communities to keep families together and to help them break out of the cycle of poverty.
GOAL 4: Ensure quality education for all
Every child and young person SOS Children’s Villages supports has access to education, from kindergarten right up to vocational training or university.
GOAL 8: Equal job opportunities for all
SOS Children’s Villages supports young people in developing the skills and self-confidence they need to find decent work and trains parents so that they can have a stable income.
GOAL 10: Reduce inequalities
SOS Children’s Villages works to keep children safe by promoting peaceful and inclusive communities. We provide training on children’s rights and positive parenting.
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GOAL 16: Promote peaceful and inclusive societies
We advocate laws and practices that ensure social inclusion and protection for children and young people without parental care or from marginalized households.
Let’s keep on protecting children and young people!
Many children have been able to find a safe and secure home. With your help, we can continue to change their lives