A new study reveals that Albanians are the most fearful of the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) in the Western Balkans. Concerns about job loss, privacy, and inequality dominate their anxieties about this rapidly evolving technology.

Artificial intelligence (AI) is advancing rapidly across the globe, reshaping everything from economics to education. However, in Albania, a recent study reveals a deep sense of fear surrounding the technology's potential effects. According to a survey conducted by the Balkan Barometer, a project of the Regional Cooperation Council, nearly half of Albanians—46%—express significant concerns about the influence of AI. This makes Albania the country with the highest level of fear in the Western Balkans.

Albania Leads the Region in AI Fears


The study, which spanned multiple Western Balkan countries, identified Albania as the leader in apprehension about AI, closely followed by Bosnia and Herzegovina and Montenegro. These findings shed light on how deeply AI is perceived as a threat in the region, even as its influence expands across various sectors.

For many Albanians, their fear stems from a lack of understanding about the technology. The study found that this uncertainty, combined with concerns over job loss and economic displacement, has fueled widespread anxiety. With AI poised to automate numerous tasks, there is growing unease that it could diminish the need for human labor, particularly in industries reliant on a large workforce.

Economic Concerns: Job Loss and Rising Inequality


One of the primary fears surrounding AI in Albania is the potential for massive job losses. AI’s ability to automate tasks previously done by humans is seen as a direct threat to job security, especially for those in sectors that require manual labor or routine tasks. Albanians fear that as more processes are automated, the demand for human workers will drastically decrease, leading to a shrinking job market.

Moreover, there is concern that AI could exacerbate inequality. Large companies with the financial means to invest in cutting-edge AI technologies could dominate markets, leaving small businesses at a disadvantage. This could widen the economic divide, making it harder for small businesses, which are the backbone of the Albanian economy, to compete. The fear is that the power imbalance between large corporations and smaller enterprises will deepen, potentially stifling innovation and competition.

Privacy and Control: The Growing Threat to Personal Freedoms


Another significant concern is the potential impact of AI on personal privacy. As AI systems become more integrated into everyday life, questions arise about the level of control that big tech companies could exert over individuals. The rise of surveillance technologies and data collection practices raises alarms about the erosion of personal freedoms. Many Albanians worry that the unchecked growth of AI could lead to a future where their actions, preferences, and even thoughts are monitored and manipulated by powerful corporations.

Potential Benefits: AI in Public Services


Despite these fears, there are also opportunities for AI to positively impact Albania. The study suggests that AI could be a powerful tool in public sectors such as healthcare and education. By automating bureaucratic processes and streamlining administrative tasks, AI has the potential to reduce inefficiencies, improve service delivery, and cut down on waiting times. These applications could lead to more effective governance and a higher quality of life for citizens.

Raising Awareness to Combat Fear


To address the widespread fear of AI, experts stress the importance of increasing awareness about the technology’s potential benefits and risks. Educating the public about AI could help alleviate some of the anxiety surrounding its impact. With a clearer understanding, Albanians may be better prepared to adapt to the evolving technological landscape. As AI continues to transform industries and societies worldwide, fostering a balanced perspective will be crucial in mitigating the fear and ensuring that its integration benefits all sectors of society.

The study underscores the need for dialogue, policy-making, and strategic planning to ensure that the impact of AI is beneficial, equitable, and mindful of the concerns expressed by the people of Albania.