Albania’s Civic Revolt Demands the Government’s Resignation
What began as a protest over Zvernec and Sazan has become a nationwide civic movement demanding the resignation of the government and challenging corruption, oligarchic power and a political system many Albanians say has exhausted the country. Tirana Times, June 15, 2026 – A protest movement that began with anger over …
Monday Briefing from the Balkans: June 15, 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
Italian Tourists Dance to Albanian Rhythms in Karaburun
Italian tourists were seen dancing aboard a tourist boat along the stunning coast of Karaburun, according to a video shared on social media by Socialist Party parliamentary leader Taulant Balla. The footage captures visitors enjoying the crystal-clear waters and vibrant summer atmosphere in one of southern Albania’s most popular coastal …
French magazine Quartz: Albanian Riviera and Alps among world’s rising destinations
TIRANA, June 15 – French magazine Quartz has listed Albania among the world’s most promising travel destinations and recommends visiting the country before mass tourism expands further. According to Quartz, Albania has attracted growing international attention thanks to its Adriatic and Ionian coastline, mountain landscapes and lower travel costs compared with …
Clear weather across Albania on Monday
TIRANA, June 15 – The Military Meteorological Service forecasts stable weather conditions across Albania on Monday. The service expects clear skies throughout the country. However, a few temporary clouds may appear over high mountainous areas from midday into the afternoon. Meanwhile, winds will blow from the west at an average …
Agriculture, Interior ministers announce new investments for food safety and border trade
TIRANA, June 15 – Agriculture and Rural Development Minister Andis Salla and Interior Minister Besfort Lamallari visited the Qafë-Thana border point to North Macedonia. Representatives from the State Police, Customs and the National Food Authority joined the visit. The officials discussed stronger food safety controls and closer institutional coordination at …
Albania’s Medieval Icons Go on Display in France
The exhibition “Icons of Albania – Treasures of the National Museum of Medieval Art of Korçë” has opened in the French city of Chambéry, marking one of the most significant events of Albanian cultural diplomacy on the international stage. Announcing the event, Culture Minister Blendi Gonxhja said that French audiences …
PM Rama: Sazan not for sale, no approved construction project in Zvërnec
TIRANA, June 15 – Prime Minister Edi Rama said Sazan Island remains state property and is not for sale. He made the statement in a social media post addressing public debate over planned investments in Sazan and Zvërnec. Rama said the state plans to participate in the Sazan tourism project …
Travelers must declare amounts exceeding 10,000 euros at border crossing points
TIRANA, June 15 – Travelers entering or leaving Albania must declare cash, negotiable instruments, precious metals, precious stones, valuables or antiques worth more than 10,000 euros or the equivalent in other currencies. The measure aims to ensure transparency and prevent money laundering and the illegal transport of high-value items. Travelers …
June Brings High Tourist Influx to Shkodër
The city of Shkodër experiences a strong influx of foreign tourists during June, becoming one of the most popular destinations in northern Albania. Tourists walk through the city’s historic center and fill its characteristic streets. They visit the pedestrian area, museums, the castle, and the lakeside promenade as the city …
TIRANA, August 28 – Interior Minister Besfort Lamallari and State Police Director General Skënder Hita met with local police and Border Police officials to discuss service standards and public trust. Lamallari called for professional, ethical and lawful service at every level. The minister said citizens build their trust in the …
TIRANA, August 28 – Klevis Qose, head of Albania’s Police Oversight Agency, met Karma M. Smith, the FBI adviser on organised crime at Albania’s Special Prosecution Office. Smith has recently taken up her post in Albania. The meeting focused on continuing existing work and coordinating the next steps. Qose said …
TIRANA, August 28 – Albania’s Foreign Minister Ferit Hoxha has rejected suggestions that Albanian officials took part in coordinated hybrid activities in Montenegro. He stressed that no formal accusation has been made against Albania. FM Hoxha responded after Montenegrin Prime Minister Milojko Spajic referred to the alleged involvement of officials …
Kosovo judoka Fatjona Kasapi has won the bronze medal at the “Taranto 2026” Mediterranean Games. Kasapi received a bye in the first round. However, she lost to France’s Pauline Cuq by Ippon in the quarterfinals. She continued the competition through the repechage. After another bye in her first repechage bout, …
A wildfire broke out this afternoon in an area between the villages of Tërbaç and Vranisht, in the Municipality of Himarë. Firefighters and aerial units are working to contain and extinguish the flames. Himarë Mayor Vangjel Tavo said local firefighting teams are on the ground with specialized vehicles. They are …
Albanian Football Federation (FSHF) President Armando Duka has hailed Egnatia’s participation in the UEFA Conference League, calling it a major achievement for Albanian football. Duka said he followed the UEFA Conference League draw with “special pride” and highlighted the historic significance of Egnatia’s participation. “For the first time in history, …
Kosovo judoka Erza Muminoviq is one win away from securing a bronze medal at the “Taranto 2026” Mediterranean Games. Muminoviq advanced through the second repechage bout after defeating Algeria’s Rahma Ghalima by Ippon. The victory secured her a place in the bronze-medal contest, where she will face Spain’s Mireia Rodriguez …
Economist Linda Rama has discussed the Western Balkans’ economic transformation, challenges and future opportunities in an interview with “Fortune Greece”. Rama said the region has experienced major political, social and economic changes since the 1990s. She highlighted progress in macroeconomic management, public finances, digital services and infrastructure. However, she said …
Egnatia has learned its six opponents for the 2026-27 Conference League league phase, marking the historic debut of the Albanian champions at this stage of the competition. The draw, held in Monaco on Friday, determined the European journey of the Rrogozhina-based club. Egnatia will play three matches at home and …
Iceland’s referendum on restarting European Union membership talks could change the current EU enlargement landscape. It could also create new momentum for countries seeking to join the bloc. Icelanders will vote on August 29. They will decide whether their country should resume accession negotiations with the EU. However, the referendum …