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Between 1990 and 1992 Albania ended 46 years of xenophobic Communist rule and established a multiparty democracy. The transition has proven difficult as successive governments have tried to deal with high unemployment, widespread corruption, a dilapidated infrastructure, powerful organized crime networks with links to high government officials, and disruptive political opponents. International observers judged parliamentary elections in 2001 to be acceptable and a step toward democratic development, but identified serious deficiencies. Some of these were addressed through reforms in the Albanian electoral code prior to the nationwide municipal elections in 2003.
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Country
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Surface Area: 28,748 square km
Population: 3,544,808 (July 2004 est.)
Located in: Southeastern Europe (Balkans)
Capital City: Tirana
Head of State: Alfred MOISIU
Prime Minister: Fatos NANO
Independent since: 28 November 1912 (from Ottoman Empire)
Currency: Lek (ALL)
Flag (image): 
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