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Introduction:

Between 1990 and 1992 Albania ended 46 years of xenophobic Communist rule and established a multiparty democracy. The transition has proven difficult as corrupt governments have tried to deal with high unemployment, a dilapidated infrastructure, widespread gangsterism, and disruptive political opponents. International observers judged legislative elections in 2001 to be acceptable and a step toward democratic development, but identified serious deficiencies that should be addressed through reforms in the Albanian electoral code.

Official name: Republic of Albania Capital: Tirana Government type: emerging democracy Population: 3,582,205 (July 2003 est.) Languages: Albanian (Tosk is the official dialect), Greek Official Currency: lek (ALL) Currency code: ALL Area: total: 28,748 sq km water: 1,350 sq km land: 27,398 sq km Climate: mild temperate; cool, cloudy, wet winters; hot, clear, dry summers; interior is cooler and wetter

Map of Albania