Albania’s unique Vjosa Delta is under immense pressure. Recent developments show that, despite its protected status, infrastructure projects are currently being pushed through on a massive scale, which could irreversibly destroy one of Europe’s most valuable coastal ecosystems. This also contravenes the conditions for Albania’s accession to the EU.
EuroNatur is monitoring the current situation in the Vjosa Delta with great concern. Whilst the construction of Vlora Airport has been encroaching on the protected area and destroying valuable natural habitats for years, a second phase of large-scale environmental destruction is now beginning in the Vjosa Delta: bulldozers are clearing coastal forests, levelling dunes and opening up previously untouched habitats. And all this for luxury resorts. These are now to be built on the Zvërnec peninsula.
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Together with our Albanian partner organisation PPNEA (Protection and Preservation of Natural Environment in Albania) and Riverwatch, we have been working tirelessly for many years to protect the Vjosa Delta. Our joint efforts have helped to raise public awareness of the ecological importance of this region and to monitor political processes critically.
Our work in the Vjosa Delta is characterised by close collaboration with local stakeholders, scientific expertise and international networking. Together with PPNEA, we document the impacts of construction projects, advocate for effective protection status and contribute our expertise to national and European decision-making processes, because one thing is clear: What is currently happening in the Narta Lagoon is unlawful, as the construction work is taking place without permits and without an environmental impact assessment. In this regard, we also expect the European Union to take a clear stance. So far, only a few members of parliament have commented on the current developments in Albania.
Agreements made with the EU are being trampled underfoot by the Albanian government. The EU must now urgently increase pressure on the government in Tirana to ensure that the destruction of nature in one of Europe’s most important natural areas is stopped immediately.
Gabriel Schwaderer, EuroNatur Executive Director
A clear stance: non-violence and dialogue
In light of the escalating situation on the ground, we are receiving reports of growing tensions. EuroNatur’s position is clear: we call on all those involved to engage in non-violent resistance and to act with restraint. At the same time, we condemn all forms of violence – regardless of which side it may come from.
Sustainable nature conservation and environmental protection can only succeed through dialogue and on the basis of the rule of law. Intimidation, escalation and violence endanger not only people, but also the chances of finding constructive solutions.
Act now: ensure the protection of the Narta Lagoon
On 16 May, demonstrators in the Vjosa Delta chanted: ‘Hands off Vjosa-Narta’
Current developments make it clear that the protection of the Narta Lagoon must be urgently strengthened. We demand:
an immediate halt to all construction projects threatening nature in and around the lagoon
consistent compliance with national and international conservation obligations
transparent decision-making processes involving civil society
long-term strategies for the conservation of the entire Vjosa Delta
EuroNatur, together with PPNEA, will continue to do everything in its power to protect this unique natural area.
You too can take action:
Please share our posts on social media and spread the word about the sacrilege against nature in Albania.
Follow us and our partners to stay up to date on this issue.
Please sign the petition against the current construction projects and share it with your family and friends.
A major international protest has been announced for Saturday, 20 June in the Vjosa Delta. If you happen to be in the region at that time, please join in and show your solidarity with the local people who are standing up against the devastating plans.
In this way, you can help preserve this unique natural area for future generations.
