Vjosa–Narta: Protests, petitions, and debate over interventions in a protected area
The debate over interventions in the Vjosa–Narta area has expanded beyond local protests, extending into online petitions, referendum initiatives, awareness campaigns on social media, and calls for attention from European institutions.
Citizens, activists, and environmental organizations have raised concerns about ongoing works in the Vjosa–Narta area, which holds the status of a “Protected Landscape” (IUCN Category V). This designation allows sustainable activities such as agriculture, forestry, and ecotourism, aiming to maintain a balance between development and the protection of landscape and biodiversity. In this context, the discussion increasingly revolves around how this balance is interpreted in practice, particularly in cases involving high-impact projects in environmentally sensitive areas of significant ecological value.
Current situation
Since late April, residents and activists have reported the presence of heavy machinery, fencing, and restricted access in parts of the area, mainly in Pishë Poro. These developments have triggered protests and public reactions, with further mobilizations announced in the coming days.
On the other hand, Prime Minister Edi Rama has stated that this is not the construction of a resort, but rather preliminary biodiversity studies and preparatory procedures. According to him, the project holds a development permit, while a construction permit has not yet been issued. He has also referred to the involvement of internationally renowned architecture studios in the project’s concept, including Emre Arolat Architecture, K-Studio, BIG, Kengo Kuma & Associates, and Ateliers Jean Nouvel. However, criticism has focused less on the architects involved and more on the potential impact of interventions in a protected area.
Legal framework, protection status, and ecological significance
Vjosa–Narta was designated a “Water/Land Protected Landscape” by Council of Ministers Decision No. 680, dated 22.10.2004, due to its ecological value and biodiversity. This framework was further strengthened by Law No. 81/2017 “On Protected Areas,” aimed at safeguarding habitats and landscapes of national importance.
Amendments adopted in 2024 (Law No. 21/2024) have been interpreted by parts of public opinion as opening broader opportunities for tourism development in protected areas, sparking debate and concern among environmental organizations and biodiversity experts. One of the most discussed cases in this context is Vjosa–Narta itself.
Although not formally part of the Vjosa River National Park, Vjosa–Narta is considered part of the same natural system, where the lagoon, sand dunes, Pishë Poro forest, and surrounding habitats are closely connected to the Vjosa delta. Activists argue that any intervention in this area could have long-term and irreversible consequences for biodiversity and protected species, including migratory birds and flamingos.
Online petition for the protection of Vjosa–Narta
Alongside protests, an online petition titled “Protect Vjosa–Narta: Stop Construction in Protected Natural Areas” has been launched, addressed to the Government of Albania, the European Commission, the European Parliament, and international environmental organizations.
It calls for:
• suspension of construction activities in environmentally sensitive areas
• full transparency regarding permits and projects
• publication of environmental studies
• independent international assessments
• protection of habitats and biodiversity
• public consultation with local communities and experts
The initiative has spread widely on social media and gathered thousands of signatures.
Civic response and public initiatives
Alongside developments on the ground, an initiative is underway to collect 50,000 signatures for a referendum aimed at repealing the law on strategic investments and the so-called “Mountains Package.” According to organizers, signatures are being collected physically near the Clock Tower in Tirana due to legal restrictions that do not allow online signing. They describe the process as a democratic tool to oppose policies perceived as harmful to the public interest.
Meanwhile, a social media campaign is also encouraging citizens to contact international organizations and institutions regarding the situation in Vjosa–Narta, with a focus on monitoring environmental and democratic standards in the country.
Some civic initiatives further suggest expanding communication beyond environmental organizations to include political and diplomatic institutions, such as Albanian state institutions, the EU Delegation, and the European Commission.
At its core, Vjosa–Narta is not fighting for a project — it is fighting not to become a memory.
Vjosa–Narta: Protests, petitions, and debate over interventions in a protected area
