Imperialist intervention is also taking place to stem the tide of social revolt in Albania. Southern Albania has thrown off the rule of Berisha and has established the power of the people's committees. The immediate background to the popular rebellion is the collapse of the pyramid investment schemes which have robbed the working class of some 3 million dollars. The basic cause of the insurrection is the restoration of capitalism which has led to deindustrialisation and the entry of US and Italian capital. The achievements of half a century of socialism have been undermined by the closure of factories, hospitals and cultural organisations.
Today there is massive unemployment and the flight of six lakh economic refugees from the country.
A political crisis was engendered by the rigging of the General Elections of May, 1996. For half a century Albania was a beacon of socialism in the world for the working class and democratic movement. Today the Albanian working class is struggling against imperialism and the local bourgeoisie. Lal Singh, General Secretary.