Tirana’s Towers, Albania’s New Pyramids?
How a criminal political economy built on concrete, dirty money and construction may put the Albanian state at risk. Tirana Times, June 22, 2026 – Tirana’s skyline has become the most visible expression of Albania’s new political economy. Over the past six or seven years, dozens of high-rise towers have …
Albania’s Missing Generation: A Country Losing Its Future Before 2050
Tirana Times, June 22, 2026 – Albania is no longer facing a normal demographic decline. It is facing the possible disappearance of the very generation on which its economic, social and political future depends. New United Nations population projections cited in the latest analysis show that Albania is expected to …
Monday Briefing from the Balkans: June 22, 2026
Catch up on the weekend’s most important developments with Balkan Insight’s digest of news from countries across the region. Original post Here
White Villages of the Blue Riviera: From Dhërmi to Vuno
The journey starts in the old village of Dhërmi along the main road. It leads through one of the most scenic hiking trails of the Albanian Riviera. First, the village of Dhërmi stands out with its white stone houses and blue sea views. Moreover, its narrow paths and natural spring …
“Rrënjët” Guesthouse Opens in Ersekë, Blending History and Comfort
Prime Minister Edi Rama announced the opening of a new guesthouse called “Rrënjët” in the center of Rilindja Square in Ersekë. The project adds new accommodation capacity to the Kolonjë region. It also strengthens the local tourism offer. Moreover, Rama shared images of the guesthouse on social media. He described …
Spanish Media: From Riviera to Alps, Albania Emerges as Europe’s Most Sought-After Destination
Albania is attracting strong international attention as one of Europe’s most popular travel destinations for 2026. The Spanish media outlet Noticias del Vino describes the country as “the last affordable paradise” in Europe. Moreover, the article highlights that Albania trends heavily on social media, especially TikTok. It shows how low-cost …
Ksamil Transforms from Small Resort Town into International Tourism Trend
The coastal town of Ksamil has transformed from a small holiday destination into one of the most popular tourist hotspots in Albania and beyond. Moreover, the town attracts visitors with its crystal-clear waters, small islands, and proximity to Butrint National Park. It also benefits from its strategic location near Sarandë …
Public Beach at “Taulantia” Promenade in Durrës Equipped with Sunbeds and Umbrellas
The public beach along the “Taulantia” promenade in Durrës has been equipped with umbrellas and sunbeds. As a result, it now offers more comfort, relaxation, and free access to the coastline for both residents and tourists. Moreover, Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sports Blendi Gonxhja shared images of the upgraded …
UEFA Report: Albanian National Team Unites Fans and Enjoys the Most Positive Image
The Albanian national football team remains the strongest symbol of identity and pride for fans across the country. This conclusion comes from the “UEFA Grow Market Research” report, conducted by UEFA in cooperation with Nielsen. The report shows that interest in the national “A” team has increased over the past …
Historic Center of Pogradec Undergoes Major Urban Transformation
Prime Minister Edi Rama shared images of the ongoing urban rehabilitation of the historic center of Pogradec, highlighting the visible transformation after restoration and infrastructure works. The project improves key urban areas, especially Naim Frashëri Street. Previously, the area showed damaged pavement and degradation. Now, it displays a renewed and …
Like the weather, the political temperature across the region is rising, as our selection of Balkan Insight Premium stories this week highlights. Original post Here
TIRANA, June 26 – Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Ferit Hoxha met Cypriot Foreign Minister Constantinos Kombos during an official visit to Cyprus. The ministers discussed stronger bilateral relations and cooperation in areas of common interest. Meanwhile, Hoxha thanked Cyprus for its continued support for Albania’s European Union integration. …
TIRANA, June 26 – Acting Tirana Mayor Anuela Ristani said the extension of the application deadline for subsidized housing loans has increased the number of beneficiary families. She presented the update during Thursday’s municipal council meeting. Meanwhile, Ristani said authorities received 4,409 applications in the first phase. She added that …
Edi Rama said that Vlora continues to transform through major investments in public spaces and tourism infrastructure. He stated that the coastal area of Radhimë is undergoing visible changes. As a result, the “Lungomare 4” project is now taking shape. Rama said the project is part of a broader vision …
TIRANA, June 26 – The Ministry of Finance has opened a draft law on immovable property tax for public consultation. Finance Minister Petrit Malaj said the reform protects Albanian families and preserves one of the region’s lowest property tax rates. Meanwhile, Malaj said the proposal would not increase the tax …
TIRANA, June 26 – Ksamil is welcoming visitors this summer with more public beach areas and improved services. Local authorities have introduced measures to provide functional public spaces, stronger safety and better conditions along the coastline. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Edi Rama shared images of Ksamil’s public beaches. He said the …
TIRANA, June 26 – The “Drawing with Light” creative workshop at the Marubi Museum in Shkodër introduced young participants to experimental photography. The museum’s education team organized the activity. Meanwhile, the workshop drew inspiration from the work of photographer Gjon Mili. Participants created light drawings by using light sources and …
TIRANA, June 26 – Albania and Kosova signed two cooperation agreements on agriculture and rural development during Kosova Agriculture Minister Armend Muja’s visit to Tirana. Meanwhile, Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development Andis Salla said the agreements reflected the strong relations between the two countries. He also stressed their shared …
TIRANA, June 26 – Prime Minister Edi Rama awarded former French President François Hollande the Gold Medal of Public Gratitude in Tirana on Thursday. The ceremony took place at the Prime Minister’s Office. Rama praised Hollande’s contribution to strengthening relations between Albania and France. He also highlighted his support for …
TIRANA, June 26 – Bektashi believers marked the Day of Ashura on Thursday. The observance follows ten days of mourning in the Bektashi calendar. It commemorates Imam Hussein and 72 martyrs killed in the Battle of Karbala. Meanwhile, a ceremony took place at the World Bektashi Headquarters in Tirana. Haxhi …