Why is this important: The Vjosa River is a unique ecological treasure, flowing freely across 272 kilometers from Greece to Albania’s Adriatic coast. Spanning 12,727 hectares, the park encompasses the river’s water surface, shoreline, and adjoining areas, as well as tributaries like the Drino, Bënçë, and Shushica rivers. It is Europe’s first wild river national park, home to over 1,100 species of fish, birds, and plants, including the critically endangered Balkan lynx, otters, and Egyptian vultures. This designation elevates Albania’s profile as a destination for eco-tourism while safeguarding a vital natural habitat against urbanization and other threats.

Why is this important: Lake Ohrid has become a focal point for international concern due to increasing environmental and urban pressures. The site’s degradation threatens its outstanding universal value, recognized globally. UNESCO has stressed the need for Albania and North Macedonia to deepen their dialogue and jointly implement measures to prevent irreversible damage. The issue has also become a test of the two countries’ commitment to environmental preservation and the enforcement of legal frameworks.

Why is this important: The sharp rise in tourist numbers over the past five years has highlighted a pressing need for skilled workers in Albania’s hospitality and tourism sectors. While demand for high-quality services remains unmet, business owners in accommodations, bars, and restaurants face labor shortages. To address this, the government has been promoting vocational education as a career path for youth, encouraging them to join professional schools to fill this gap.

Why is this important: While many international airports experienced a decline in passenger numbers following the COVID-19 pandemic, Rinas has bucked the trend, consistently showing year-on-year growth. The airport continues to lead regional rankings in passenger increases, reflecting Albania’s rising profile as a travel and business destination. It is also playing a significant role in Albania’s tourism boom.

Why is this important: CNN’s coverage brings international attention to Albania’s remarkable journey from a repressive communist regime, once labeled the “North Korea of Europe,” to its vibrant transformation into a cultural and tourist hotspot. This renewed interest not only highlights Albania’s resilience but also showcases how the country is creatively repurposing remnants of its past. It enhances Albania’s image and promotes it as an appealing destination, offering visibility that would have been unimaginable just a few years ago.