Balkan Countries Push for Record Tourism Year, Despite Growth Concerns
As beaches, historic sites and natural beauties in Croatia, Montenegro, Albania, Greece and Turkey draw increasing numbers of tourists, governments eye bumper profits – though experts warn that relentless growth in the sector comes with costs. Original post Here
Albania’s Former PM Berisha Loses Appeal Against UK Ban
UK court dismisses appeal by opposition leader Sali Berisha to lift sanctions against him for alleged corruption, ruling that the ban was based on sufficient information. Original post Here
No Children, No Schools: Emigration Empties Northern Albania
In Albania’s northern Kukes and Shkodra regions, dozens of schools have shut their doors over the past several years as a result of staggering rates of emigration. Original post Here
Turkish-Albanian YouTuber Wanted in Turkey Denies Insulting Islam
YouTuber Diamant Tema, who faces an arrest warrant in Turkey for alleged insults to Islam and Muhammad, has denied the accusations, saying he is being ‘judged without a court hearing’. Original post Here
Growing Diaspora Vote Becomes Game-Changer in Balkan Elections
Balkan diaspora communities are expanding in size, becoming more interested in electoral battles back home – and are increasingly aware of their key role in shaping outcomes in an important year for elections across the region. Original post Here
Anti-Corruption Fight in Balkans Sees Progress, But Also Regression: Report
A new report on the Western Balkans and Turkey by watchdog organisation Transparency International says the progress against corruption made by a number of countries is counter-balanced by backsliding in others. Original post Here
Euro 2024 Becomes Arena for Balkan Nationalist Score-Settling
Matches at Euro 2024 involving Albania, Croatia and Serbia have been marred by nationalist chants and banners that are not uncommon in the Balkans, but were given a bigger stage by the showpiece football tournament. Original post Here
27,000 euros through fraud at the workplace, one arrested
A 34-year-old man was arrested by the Tirana police for the criminal offenses of “Fraud”, “Forgery of documents” and “Forgery of seals, stamps or forms”. Rizar Alibali from Shkodra is accused of embezzling 27,000 euros through fraud and presenting suspected falsified documents (mandates) at his workplace. The 34-year-old, being employed …
The extradition of Durim Bami from Dubai/ Balla: We have all the instruments to bring him before Albanian justice
A few days ago, the Special Prosecutor’s Office (SPAK) submitted the request to the Ministry of Justice for the extradition of Durim Bami. In this regard, Interior Minister Taulant Balla has declared that the authorities have all the tools to bring Bami and all cases like him to justice. “This …
“Berisha cannot be the political offer that Albanians deserve”, Alibeaj leaves the Democratic Party group
Enkelejd Alibeaj will no longer be part of the Parliamentary Group of the Democratic Party. Through a long post on social networks, Alibeaj said that his election comes as a sign of respect for the court’s decision, which gave Sali Berisha the seal of the Democratic Party. According to Alibeaj, …
TIRANA, April 23 – Travel and Tour World has highlighted Albania as an emerging European travel destination for 2026, citing growing international interest in its coastal landscapes, mountain regions and cultural heritage sites. The publication described Albania as gaining increased visibility among international travellers. In Tirana, the capital features as …
The European Film Academy has included the Kinostudio “Shqipëria e Re” building in the list of Treasures of European Film Culture. The Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport announced the decision and highlighted its importance for Albania. It said the recognition places Albania among Europe’s key film heritage destinations. It …
TIRANA, April 23 – The Military Meteorological Service said Albania will face relatively unstable atmospheric conditions on Thursday. The day is expected to bring alternating clear skies and light to moderate cloud cover during midday and afternoon hours. Southern mountainous areas are expected to see localised light rainfall with low …
TIRANA, April 23 – The Council of Ministers approved zoning and a management plan for Orikum Archaeological Park. The site received designation last week as an immovable cultural asset. The decision sets rules for protection, preservation and administration. Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sports Blendi Gonxhja said the measure strengthens …
TIRANA, April 23 – Business activity in Albania increased significantly in March 2026, reflecting positive economic dynamics in the country. The National Business Centre reported 1,780 new business registrations during the month. Compared with March 2025, when 1,565 businesses were registered, the figure rose by 13.7 percent. Tirana accounted for …
Nufi met Zoran Milanović during an official visit to Zagreb. They discussed strengthening defence cooperation within NATO. Nufi said Albania and Croatia share a strong commitment to peace and stability in Southeast Europe. He described this as a key strategic priority for both countries. Moreover, both sides agreed to deepen …
TIRANA, April 23 – Albania’s public broadcaster, Radio Televizioni Shqiptar (RTSH), has formally launched an institutional reform process following unanimous approval by its Steering Council. The decision marks the start of implementing a transformation plan supported by the European Broadcasting Union (EBU). RTSH Director General Eni Vasili said the reform …
Bank of Albania, in cooperation with the European Investment Bank, held a technical and inter-institutional workshop in Tirana on the development of Albania’s “Green Taxonomy”. This system classifies which economic activities can be considered environmentally sustainable. The Bank said the initiative is part of a broader technical assistance program to …
TIRANA, April 23 – The National Theatre of Opera and Ballet hosted the concert “Three Spanish tenors” in Tirana, bringing three internationally recognised opera voices to the Albanian capital. The event featured repertoire from classical and operatic music. Tenors Ignacio Encinas, Oscar Encinas and Albert Deprius performed under the direction …
Blendi Gonxhja announced that the Monastery of the Archangels in Derviçan has been declared a Category I “Monument of Culture”. He said authorities will soon begin work to restore it and make it livable again. The Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sport said the decision was made in cooperation with …