Despite some criticism UNESCO approves World Heritage Sites in Albania, but delays decision on Ohrid Lake and demands clarifications on Butrint
During its latest session in New Delhi, the UNESCO World Heritage Committee approved decisions regarding Albania’s World Heritage Sites, including Butrint, Berat, and Gjirokastër. However, the decision on the cross-border Ohrid Lake area shared by Albania and North Macedonia has been postponed until next year.
Context
Regarding Butrint, the committee supported nearly 90% of the points in the decisions made by the Albanian government concerning the establishment of a foundation to manage this UNESCO World Heritage Site. Nonetheless, UNESCO has requested that Albanian authorities submit a map of the Butrint property boundaries, which were altered two years ago by the Albanian government without UNESCO’s knowledge or approval.
UNESCO also demands that Albania’s Ministry of Economy, Culture, and Innovation submit to the World Heritage Property clarifications on current protective regulations and designated uses for all National Park areas related to the protection of World Heritage Property and the role of its buffer zone, as well as on how different management regimes will be harmonized to prevent fragmentation.
Albania is required to provide the World Heritage Center with an updated report on the property’s preservation status and the implementation of decisions, including a detailed action plan with a timeline for addressing recommendations from the 2022 mission, by February 1, 2025.
For Berat and Gjirokastër, UNESCO expressed regret that Albania has not fully implemented the management plan project, which was to be developed in cooperation with the government and civil sector, and funded by the World Heritage Fund. UNESCO noted that a bypass road was constructed in Gjirokastër without meeting UNESCO’s requirements. Consequently, Albania is urged to conduct an urgent and comprehensive independent impact assessment of the project’s effects on Gjirokastër’s heritage.
Go deeper
Kosovo PM Albin Kurti clashes with Prosecution over refusal to testify
Published on December 30, 2024
Why is this important: Kurti’s refusal to cooperate with the prosecution marks a significant shift in his approach to governance. It comes at a time when his government, which rose to power on a nationalist, anti-corruption platform, has faced a series of corruption scandals that have eroded its reputation. By rejecting the prosecution’s authority, Kurti escalates tensions with the justice system, positioning himself among a list of Balkan leaders who have clashed with judicial systems when investigations move close to their inner circles or political interests. The development raises concerns about the rule of law and democratic accountability in Kosovo, as it underscores the challenges faced by the judiciary when pursuing high-profile cases.
Albanian Prime Minister reflects on key issues in marathon end-of-year press conference
Published on December 30, 2024
Why is this important: While Prime Minister Edi Rama refrained from directly criticizing SPAK—consistent with his longstanding pledge never to interfere with the justice system—his defense of Mayor Erion Veliaj conveyed clear frustration with how the case is unfolding. Rama’s remarks underscored his dissatisfaction with the perception that the investigation into Veliaj has strayed into political and media-driven territory, raising broader questions about the justice process and its implications.
SPAK’s twisting investigation into Tirana Mayor stirs debate over motives and methods
Published on December 27, 2024
Why is this important: Erion Veliaj is one of the most prominent figures in Albania’s ruling Socialist Party (SP). As Mayor of Tirana, his leadership has brought him significant recognition but also considerable adversaries, including within his own party. With parliamentary elections less than five months away, the ongoing allegations and investigations against Veliaj could have a significant impact on the SP, especially given Veliaj’s key role in the Tirana campaign.