A Snapshot of the Growth Lab's Research Engagement in Albania

The Growth Lab has been engaged in an applied research project with the country of Albania since 2013. In this time, we have conducted research on numerous, diverse workstreams related to stimulating economic growth in the country. In this podcast episode, we kick off a larger outreach campaign, which showcases our engagement in Albania, by gathering members of our research team to discuss their work. Hosted by research assistant Jessie Lu, this podcast features Ermal Frasheri, Tim O’Brien, Shreyas Gadgin Matha, Spencer Bateman, Ricardo Villasmil, and Daniela Muhaj, researchers at the Growth Lab who have been involved with various aspects of this project. The team paints a picture of our work in Albania, delving into the current situation in the country as it relates to COVID-19 and it’s macroeconomic consequences, our support in strengthening government capacities using tools like the Albanian Investment Corporation; the country’s current infrastructure landscape and plans for improvement and expansion; the importance of studying the Albanian diaspora; and Albania’s plans for accession to the EU.