One of Europe’s most important coastal ecosystems is under threat.
The protected Pishë Poro–Narta area, part of the Vjosa–Narta Protected Landscape and the Vjosa River Delta in Albania, is facing an unprecedented environmental crisis. A unique natural ecosystem of international importance for biodiversity is at risk of being transformed into a luxury tourism resort.
The area is home to more than 70 threatened species and over 200 bird species. It is also a crucial stop along the Adriatic migratory flyway, crossed each year by millions of birds travelling between Africa and Europe. At the same time, it provides refuge for rare and protected Mediterranean species.
Since late April, heavy machinery has been operating along the coastline and within sensitive habitats, raising serious concerns about irreversible damage to the ecosystem. Environmental organisations and concerned citizens are calling for an immediate halt to all works until independent environmental assessments have been completed and all relevant studies and permits have been made publicly available.
Vjosa–Narta was designated a Protected Landscape in 2004, and its protection status was further strengthened through legislation adopted in 2017. However, amendments to the law in 2024 opened the door to tourism development in certain categories of protected areas, triggering strong reactions from scientists, environmental organisations and citizens across Europe.
In response, a broad citizens’ movement has emerged in Albania. Thousands of people, local communities, scientists, artists and environmental groups have mobilised to defend the Narta Lagoon and the right of communities to participate in decisions affecting their natural environment. Recent mass demonstrations show that the Vjosa–Narta case has become a symbol of the struggle for nature conservation, transparency and the public interest.
We express our support and solidarity with our sister environmental organisation PPNEA, as well as with all citizens and organisations fighting to protect Vjosa–Narta. Their struggle is a struggle for biodiversity, wetlands and the right of future generations to inherit thriving and healthy ecosystems.
Sign here the joint call to protect Vjosa–Narta and demand the immediate suspension of all destructive activities.
Photo credits: PPNEA
