The economic situation in Albania is disastrous. There is high unemployment. And I had experienced that I was without money a few times in the middle of the month and didn’t know how to get along until the end of the month. I’m talking about the necessities, about food. Because of my daughter’s concern, I decided to leave Albania and find a place where my child could be safe. And I chose Germany.
My husband is seriously ill. He’s got a bad back. And he is unable to work hard physically. This has had an impact on our financial situation. Even the small jobs we could have gotten, he couldn’t do because of his illness. It’s very difficult for me to talk about. It is difficult to admit that I had no perspectives in my own country. It’s also hard to tell the whole thing here in front of you, but unfortunately it is the way it is. And now I am here, hoping for a right to stay here in Germany, for a better life for my child. What else can I tell you? You’ve seen this before. These are the stories from Albania. It’s just my financial need that brings me here.
I’ve been in Germany for 2 1/2 years. I’m happy with my place. I am especially pleased that I am not far away from Albania geographically. I just hope it ends well. Because the mere thought that I have to go back to Albania with two children is a hell of an idea.
This is my destiny now. The hard part is that we’ve been living in constant fear for two and a half years. It’s delayed, you’re not sure what’s going to happen to you. Fear and hope merge. It’s nice to have you here, but you’re just here to hear a story.
Storyteller’s name: Selvie Lleka
Interviewer’s name: Sarah Dudek and Violeta Peshku
Country of origin: Albania
Sex: f
Age: 31