PERTINENT USE OF DIASPORA REMMITANCE –VITIA CASE

Abstract

Albanian Diaspora is present throughout the world and is large in numbers. A substantial emigration from Kosovo has been taken place in various phases during the second half of the 20th century as Albanians in Kosovo, Macedonia and Albania as well. Albanians generally know the burden of migration. Albanian families have at least one of their close family member or a relative living and working outside Kosovo. For many decades main financial resources from our compatriots have been uncontested and a living source for Kosovo families! In addition, diaspora marks dynamics and drive of money as in construction and trade, and its peak is during the winter and summer holidays. Therefore, we were interested in the most inclusive way and locally to focus on remittances of our compatriots who are from the city of Vitia and surroundings. Interest to investigate this development realized since the municipality of Vitia this year (2016) continually supported the migrants to invest and aid them to channel their humanitarian resources through official and transparent channels by organizing different events and joint cultural gatherings. Maybe, a little bit to alleviate poverty in this city and to deepen cooperation further. The municipality of Vitia is located in south-eastern Kosovo. It covers an area of approximately 276 km² and includes Vitia town and 38 villages. The total population is approximately 47,000 (46,987 according to the Kosovo Population and Housing Census 2011).170 It's interesting that Vitia’s diaspora is very powerful and active always ready to help its people whenever it’s needed. Approximately more than 35% of Vitia’s inhabitants work and live in Switzerland and Germany. Approximately every second village has its respective association in the city where they live, in Switzerland or Germany.