Why is “maintenance” such a difficult concept for many Albanians?
The second law of thermodynamics states that things are in a constant state of decay, thus anything and everything in this world is in a constant state of consumption and entropy. Man-made materials are especially prone to this law. Thus, objects and subjects alike require a certain level of maintenance for them to operate at [...]
Happy 100 Years of Independence Albania!
It started out as a cloudy and windy day, but it is did not feel so to the many thousands of people gathering around the center of Tirana and in all the other cities in the country for the 100 year anniversary of Albania’s independence. Albanians everywhere celebrate this centenary anniversary of our mother country’s [...]
People are being reduced to begging!
On weekends I try to stay away from my computer and cell phone. Most weeks, it’s the only time that I can switch things off and try to focus on relaxing and spending time with my family. This past weekend was no different, except for an insistent caller on Sunday evening. I’ve ignored calls in [...]
Corruption: 1 in 3 pays a bribe for public services
Albania is currently considered as the most corrupt country in Europe. Though this does not make the news much – a recent study produced by INSTAT (The National Institute of Statistics) with the support of the EU, based on individual interviews of some 5.700 citizens from all over the country, reported that 1 in 3 [...]
A response to the current political tsunami affecting us all
In the past several weeks I’ve been intentionally staying away from TV, and have done less reading of newspapers. Though this has been partly imposed due to work load and school work, the intention has been fueled also by the inundation of news coverage about the impending local elections in Albania.
An Alternative Civil Voice for Albania
(The Civil Alternative) is a website that I have worked on as designer and webmaster. Though I’m not responsible in any way for its content and purpose, however, for me it one of those voices that I think has a greater civil value for all Albanians. The website is about engaging people in dialogue and [...]
Reflections on the Violent Protest in Tirana
Though I personally try to bring forth a different perspective of this Albanian reality and life, I obviously do not tend to focus on the worst aspects nor do I want to exalt the evils of our society. But obviously there are harsh realities and issues that still affect us in ways that bring about [...]
What will happen economically with Albania in 2013?
This past weekend I meet with a close friend of mine to talk about stuff. It started out as a casual chat over a cool beer, but it got serious once we started considering how the country would fare economically this upcoming elections year. He was reasonably concerned over the economic stability of the country [...]