Kadriaj: Population exodus trend from Kosovo, economic reasons not decisive

Mustafa Kadriaj, an economic expert from Pristina, stated that the results of the census in Kosovo have predictably shown a trend of population exodus to the West and that this is not solely a consequence of economic factors.

"The results announced by the Kosovo Statistical Agency were expected because the exodus of the population to the West was not only due to the economic situation," Kadriaj told Kosovo Online.

Natural increase is not linked to economic reasons, Kadriaj says, explaining that the causes of population growth can vary.

"Lower natural increase is generally associated with emancipated segments of society, or the educated class," this expert explains.

He emphasizes that, according to census results, the Ashkali as a minority community have recorded growth. However, he warns that they are facing a serious challenge in Kosovo.

"Unfortunately, this population does not have healthcare," Kadraj points out.

He highlights this issue as crucial for Kosovo.

"The goal is quality health for the population, not just its growth regardless of whether it's about the Albanian majority or for minorities, including the Serbian one. There must be health insurance and optimal healthcare service so that citizens can live healthily. Population growth should not suffer due to a lack of health services," Kadriaj concludes.