Mapping and profiling of Albanian diaspora: an economic and social survey in five Italian regions: an overview of the situation in France and Belgium

The aim of the book is to better understand the characteristics of the Albanian diaspora in the three countries, investigating plans and expectations of migrating Albanian citizens with particular interest to a possible direct or indirect contribution and investment. Diaspora and diaspora networks are indeed considered key possible actors to economic and financial contribution to the country of origin, besides the help they grant through family remittances. More particularly, they are recognized for their more trusted and lasting relationships with domestic actors, being able to merge self-economic and solidarity motivation to invest in the country of origin and also be able to mobilize larger networks and forms for capitals and resources. Based on these assumptions, the research had been designed to verify and analyse the extent and the conditions in which could the Albania diaspora abroad be a relevant economic player benefiting the development and investment policies in Albania. The goal is not to make a comparison between Albanian Diaspora communities in Italy, France, and Belgium, but rather to provide an analysis on the driving factor, which has stimulated the migration in these countries. Meanwhile considering that the Albanian Diaspora in Italy is amongst the largest Diaspora abroad, the research is mainly focused on the different patterns of communities in the main five regions of Italy. Moreover, it provides a profiling of Albanian citizens residing in Italy, who have declared an interest in investing in Albania, in order to offer an instrument aimed at strengthening the role of the diaspora for the development of Albania.