The Risks of Purposive Transitions in Albania: Navigating the Just Green Transition in Light of Post-Socialist Legacies

Abstract

This paper explores the risks and opportunities of Albania’s Just Green Transition (JGT) in the context of its post-socialist transformation. Drawing up an updated transition theory that accounts for the complexities of purposive change and multi-dimensional justice, the Albania’s post-1990 reforms with the current push for climate neutrality under the JGT are compared. The analysis reveals common transition challenges and specific risks tied to JGT’s environmental focus and urgency. By mapping the lessons from Albania’s post-socialist era—such as the need for participatory governance, particularly in a context of “transitions fatigue”—the paper outlines strategies to address JGT-specific risks—such as governance gaps, social inequities, and economic disruptions—drawing on developments through 2025.

This paper, through a comparative lens, underscores the importance of inclusive policymaking, balancing socio-economic and spatial justice, and leveraging international support for a successful JGT.