European Parliament Calls for Moratorium on Albania's Protected Areas

The European Parliament has adopted a report expressing serious concerns over legislative changes in Albania that may threaten protected areas of ecological significance. The report highlights the potential risks posed by the Strategic Investments Law and amendments to the Law on Protected Areas, particularly focusing on developments within the Vjosa-Narta Protected Area.

In response to these concerns, the European Parliament has called on Albanian authorities to immediately impose a moratorium on all new permitting procedures, construction works, and development interventions within protected areas. This moratorium is to remain in effect until the incompatible provisions of the amended Law on Protected Areas are repealed and full compliance with EU nature protection standards is ensured.

The Parliament emphasizes that any projects within these areas should undergo comprehensive Environmental Impact Assessments in line with EU standards. This process should include transparent public participation, involving local communities, scientists, and civil society organizations.

This development follows large-scale peaceful protests in Albania, where citizens have expressed opposition to projects that could harm the country's natural heritage. The European Parliament's stance underscores the importance of aligning national legislation with EU environmental standards, especially as Albania continues its path toward European integration.

For more details, refer to the original article: Euronews Albania