Albanian PM’s Private Jet Trip to Israel Raises Transparency Questions
During last week’s visit to Israel, Albania’s Prime Minister used a private jet once owned by Sam Bankman Fried, now-jailed owner of crypto exchange FTX – but it’s unclear who footed the bill. Original post Here
Albania Arrests 20 for Toxic Waste-Trafficking to Thailand
The suspects are among 33 people accused of involvement in shipping a cargo of dangerous industrial waste from Albania to Thailand. Original post Here
As Trump’s Family Eyes Pristine Albanian Coast, Villagers Cry Foul
The US president’s son-in-law wants to build a tourism development in southern Albania, but residents of the unspoilt strip around Zvernec say a dispute over ownership of the land is being ignored. Original post Here
Local roads, national standards: Tropojë case tests Albania’s procurement and oversight
Tropojë Mayor Indicted for Illegal Roadworks Tirana Times, 02 February 2026 – In a case related to alleged abuse of office, Albania’s Special Court has sent Tropojë’s mayor Rexhë Byberi and his deputy Abedin Kërrnaja to trial on charges of “abuse of office” related to local infrastructure projects. The officials are …
Hamid’s Story: A Tale of Death and Europe’s Drift Towards Offshore Detention
The Italy-Albania asylum ‘offshoring’ scheme is being studied by other Western European governments wanting to look tough on migration. But the case of Hamid Badoui, who took his own life after being held at an Albanian migrant detention camp, highlights the human cost. Original post Here
We Were Always Here: The Balkans Should Honour Its LGBTQ+ Pioneers
Balkan LGBTQ+ people, both in the region and in the diaspora, are often told that their identities are incompatible. It’s time to hear a different story – and learn more about the region’s pioneers. Original post Here
Ivanka Trump Visit Reignites Property Dispute in Zvërnec
Plans by relatives of U.S. President Donald Trump to build a luxury resort in the scenic coastal area of Zvërnec have sidelined local residents and their property claims, while intersecting with a long-running court battle involving controversial real estate businessman Artur Shehu. By Vladimir Karaj Tirana Times, 02 February 2026 …
Monday Briefing from the Balkans: February 2, 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
Tunnel Revelation Raises Awkward Questions for Albanian Government
The Murrizi Tunnel was opened to much fanfare in March last year, not long before a parliamentary election. Now the Albanian Road Authority says it has yet been certified for use. Original post Here
Albania and the Balkans in the Epstein Files
Tirana Times, 01 February 2026 – The release of more than three million pages of documents linked to the Jeffrey Epstein case by the United States Department of Justice has expanded the scope of one of the most disturbing scandals of the past decade far beyond the United States. The …
TIRANA, June 3 – Albania has been elected President of Forest Europe for the 2026–2030 period. Forty-five member countries voted unanimously. The country will take over the role from Sweden. Prime Minister Edi Rama announced the decision. He said the outcome represents an important diplomatic milestone for Albania. He added …
The National Theatre of Opera and Ballet of Albania has published its artistic calendar for June, featuring a rich program of concerts, educational activities, international tours and a world ballet premiere. The institution described the summer season as a period filled with emotions, inspiration and memorable cultural experiences for audiences …
TIRANA, June 3 – The State Police has presented a detailed plan of measures to ensure public order and safety before, during, and after the friendly football match between Albania and Israel. The match will take place at 20:00 at “Air Albania” stadium in Tirana. Meanwhile, police said the plan …
TIRANA, June 3 – Albania’s economy continues to show resilience and positive development prospects. Growth is supported by higher economic activity, an improving labour market, and favourable financial conditions. The assessment comes from an International Monetary Fund mission led by Diego Cerdeiro, during a visit to Albania from 28 May …
TIRANA, June 3 – Weather forecaster Lajda Porja has warned that Albania will face very high temperatures during the weekend and next week. Speaking on the RTSH’s “Mirëmëngjes Shqipëri” [Good Morning Albania] show, she said a heatwave will affect much of Europe and bring significantly warmer conditions across the country. …
Blendi Gonxhja invited Italian fans to attend rapper Ye’s concert in Tirana on July 11. Italian media reported that organizers canceled the Reggio Emilia concert due to security concerns. The event also involved Travis Scott. Furthermore, Gonxhja said the Albanian government guarantees all tickets. He encouraged fans to choose Tirana …
TIRANA, June 3 – Deputy Economy and Innovation Minister Olta Manjani said Albania is continuing preparations under Chapter 2, “Freedom of Movement for Workers.” The chapter forms part of the country’s European Union accession negotiations. Speaking before the Parliamentary Committee on European Affairs and Foreign Affairs, she outlined progress in …
The Wom presents Albania as one of Europe’s last hidden summer destinations, praising its coastline for crystal-clear waters, natural beauty, and affordable travel options. The magazine describes Albania as an emerging Mediterranean hotspot. It compares its beaches to the “Caribbean of Europe” because of their turquoise waters and untouched landscapes. …
TIRANA, June 3 – British media outlet GB News reports that Himara is strengthening its position as one of the Mediterranean’s emerging tourism gems. Interest from UK travellers in the Albanian Riviera is rising significantly. Journalist Sarra Gray cites Airbnb data showing a shift among British holidaymakers toward less crowded …
TIRANA, June 3 – More than 29,000 domestic and foreign visitors toured Rozafa Castle during May, according to the Regional Directorate of Cultural Heritage in Shkodër. Meanwhile, the institution reported that 62,748 people visited the historic site between January 1 and May 31. The castle remains one of northern Albania’s …