Tirana - Post Report Question and Answers
Is this a good city for LGBT expatriates? Why or why not?
Yes. While the LGBT community is not completely accepted, there is a vibrant NGO scene with LGBT activists that are working to build a safe and open community. - Aug 2016
My guess would be no. Homosexuality is still very taboo in Albania, with many LGBT youths beaten and exiled. - Aug 2015
Albanians do not in general accept homosexuality, but I have not been aware of any incidences of violence. There is an active LGBT group that holds events unmolested. I'd say it is a good post for LGBT community members. - Aug 2014
The LGBT social scene is small but very active and very young. Older couples or individuals (i.e., over age 35) may have trouble finding other similarly-aged couples or individuals to socialize with. Most of the active LGBT crowd are in their late teens and early twenties, with a few exceptions. Many of them are still students. The government is very tolerant and goes out of its way to protect the LGBT community, so couples have nothing to worry about with respect to official harassment. Socially, though, Albania is still very conservative, and couples that engage in public displays of affection may attract unwanted comments or attention. As a foreigner, it is extremely unlikely that you would have to worry about physical attacks. If you are a little discreet, you can enjoy the city without any concerns. There are a handful of LGBT expats currently in Tirana, and all of them seem to be enjoying their time here. - May 2013
There has been a big push in the LGBT community, but that is about all I know. I don't have a feel for what it is like for that community. - Dec 2012
- Oct 2011
Maybe - Albanian men are typically macho. - Mar 2008
