A new debate on development and environmental protection has returned to the spotlight following reports of encroachment on the Pishë Poro–Nartë protected area, part of the Vjosa–Nartë Protected Landscape, one of the most important ecosystems in Albania.

Environmental organizations and nature protection activists protested this week in front of the Ministry of Tourism and Environment, demanding a halt to works that, according to them, are changing the natural character of the area and affecting protected habitats.

Photo: PPNEA

Why is Vjosa-Narta considered important?

Vjosa-Narta is home to more than 200 bird species and dozens of endangered species, while for biodiversity experts it represents one of the most valuable natural spaces in the region.

Its importance became even more apparent after the declaration of the Wild Vjosa River National Park in 2023, a development that was widely praised by European environmental organizations.

At this stage, interventions are being carried out in Vjosa-Narta that have raised concerns among Albanian and European environmental organizations.

What do environmental organizations declare?

The Organization for the Conservation and Protection of the Natural Environment in Albania (PPNEA), EcoAlbania, EuroNatur and other organizations have raised concerns about interventions that, according to them, are being carried out within the protected area.

According to statements and materials published by them, heavy machinery, the opening of new roads, interventions in sand dunes, and changes in areas considered of particular importance for biodiversity have been documented in the field.

PPNEA organized a protest on May 26 in front of the Ministry of Tourism and Environment, where citizens and activists demanded the immediate cessation of works, the publication of relevant documentation, and more transparency from institutions.

EcoAlbania has stated that interventions are taking place in one of the most important ecosystems in the country. The international organization EuroNatur has also reacted publicly, stating that works are being carried out in the area without full transparency on procedures, environmental assessments and public consultation. According to EuroNatur, the interventions are related to a luxury tourist project that foresees the development of high-end structures near one of the most important coastal ecosystems in Albania.

However, so far there has been no full public presentation by institutions or investors on the project, its dimension, and the impact it may have on the environment.

What have the institutions said?

According to previous statements by the authorities, the activities in the area have been described as interventions related to geological studies and preliminary technical procedures. However, environmental organizations argue that what is happening on the ground goes beyond a study phase and are demanding more transparency about the project.

Photo: PPNEA

So far there has been no detailed public response to all the claims raised by environmental organizations.

While the bulldozers are already on the ground and the debates are moving from the halls to the field, the question is no longer whether an intervention is taking place in Vjosa-Narta. The question is whether citizens will ever receive a full explanation of what is being built, why it is being built, and what environmental cost this intervention may have for an area that is a national asset.

Photos from the situation on the ground:

Photo: PPNEA

Photo: PPNEA

Photo: PPNEA

Photo: PPNEA

Photo: PPNEA