U.S. Embassy: State Department Cancels Visas of Foreign Nationals Who Threaten National Security
The U.S. Department of State is cancelling the visas of foreign nationals who commit crimes, encourage violence against Americans or threaten U.S. national security, the U.S. Embassy in Albania said on Thursday. The embassy said the policy follows the Trump administration’s approach of taking action against foreign nationals who pose …
Bahri Beci: The Albanian Linguist Who Shaped Dialectology and Phonetics
The Academy of Sciences of Albania has commemorated academician Bahri Beci on the anniversary of his death. Beci died on August 20, 2023. Born in Shkodër in 1936, he began his scientific career in 1958 at the Institute of Linguistics and Literature. Soon after, he became involved in major research …
Albania’s Flamingo Movement Said ‘No’, Now It Needs the Courage to Say ‘Yes’
The protesters marching daily through the streets of Tirana know what they’re against. If they’re seeking genuine democratic change, it’s time for them to determine what they’re for. Original post Here
Human Rights Watchdog Urges Italy, Albania to End Offshore Migrant Detention
Amnesty International said in a new report that the Italian-Albanian deal for the offshore detention of asylum seekers and migrants is “jeopardising people’s safety, liberty and human rights”. Original post Here
Kulmak Festival: Thousands of Bektashi pilgrims gather on Mount Tomor
TIRANA, August 20 – Thousands of Bektashi believers and visitors from Albania and other countries are gathering on Mount Tomorr this week for the traditional Kulmak Festival. Prime Minister Edi Rama shared images of the celebrations on social media, describing the event as one of the area’s most important spiritual …
Kosova: Bone remains of at least 23 individuals identified in Zubin Potok
TIRANA, August 20 – Kosova’s Special Prosecution Office, in cooperation with the Kosova Police and the Institute of Forensic Medicine, identified bone remains believed to belong to at least 23 individuals during excavation work in suspected locations in Zubin Potok. The Institute of Forensic Medicine carried out preliminary examinations at …
Cybersecurity during summer holidays: Tips for safer travel
TIRANA, August 20 – Smartphones play a central role during summer travel. People use them for bookings, tickets, documents, photos, maps, payments and personal or work accounts. The National Cyber Security Authority recommends several measures to protect devices, accounts and data. Before departure, travellers should update operating systems and applications. …
Referendum request on protected areas law: Election Commission approves signature form
TIRANA, August 20 – Albania’s Central Election Commission reviewed a request today for a standard form to collect signatures for a nationwide referendum. The proposed referendum seeks to repeal changes made in 2024 to the law on protected areas. The commission approved the standard form for collecting voters’ signatures. The …
Forbes: Albania presented as a hidden Balkan treasure of history, nature and hospitality
TIRANA, August 20 – “Forbes” has highlighted Albania as a destination rich in history, culture, nature and hospitality. Travel journalist Jeanine Barone describes the country as a once-forgotten “jewelry box” that now attracts international visitors. The article highlights Albania’s UNESCO World Heritage sites, historic towns and diverse landscapes. Visitors can …
Deputy Prime Minister Koçiu: Support for farmers and businesses to expand processing capacity
TIRANA, August 20 – Deputy Prime Minister Albana Koçiu highlighted the growth of Albanian agricultural businesses in international markets. She cited Zdrava Group, an Albanian agro-processing company, as an example of a business that has grown alongside farmers and invested in technology. The company has operated in agro-processing for more …
Catch up on the weekend’s most important developments with Balkan Insight’s digest of news from countries across the region. Original post Here
Nature tourism continues to grow in Albania as more visitors choose national parks and protected areas to explore the country’s natural heritage. In a video message shared on social media, Environment Minister Sofjan Jaupaj highlighted several natural destinations that visitors can explore at the weekend, including Divjakë-Karavasta National Park, Llogara …
International media continue to highlight Albania as an emerging tourism destination. Recent articles focus on the country’s natural landscapes, coastline, cultural heritage, and lesser-known travel experiences. The Agency for Media and Information has shared several international articles published this week. Indonesian outlet “IDN Times” highlights the traditional streets and houses …
Ura e Vashës has become one of the most attractive tourist destinations in the Klos area. The historic bridge is attracting a growing number of Albanian and international visitors this summer. Prime Minister Edi Rama shared images of the bridge on social media. He highlighted it as a popular destination …
TIRANA, August 31 – The wildfire situation has worsened in the Shkopet area as flames spread rapidly through the villages of Trodhen and Lundra e Madhe in Mat and moved toward the Kurbin area. The fire is advancing toward the Skanderbeg mountain range, increasing the risk to homes, farmland and …
TIRANA, August 31 – The archive of the Migjeni Theatre in Shkodër preserves an important part of the institution’s history. Photographs, documents, posters and other materials record its activities over the years and the artists who have performed on its stage. Archivist Astrit Fani said the archive needs better conditions …
Durrës has topped a list of Europe’s best-value beach destinations, according to the US media outlet “Quartz”. The list brings together eight coastal destinations that offer travelers a combination of beaches, history, culture, gastronomy, and affordable prices. “Quartz” highlights destinations stretching from the Baltic Sea to the Mediterranean and from …
Minister for Europe and Foreign Affairs Ferit Hoxha shared images of Tamara, Lepushë, and Vermosh on X. He highlighted the beauty of the Albanian Alps and their growing potential for mountain tourism. “Here, nature knows no limits, beauty becomes wealth, hospitality becomes law, and tradition becomes identity,” Hoxha wrote. He …
TIRANA, August 31 – Bakeries have been part of life in Korça for hundreds of years. Around 1850, the city had several bakeries in Varosh, Kasaba and the former Çarshia. They prepared bread as well as meat dishes, beans, tripe and other traditional foods. Historical documents show that Korça bakers …
Traditional Labëria music is reaching a new generation. For the third year in a row, musician Vendim Kapaj will offer a free fyell course in Vlora. The course will run from September 2026 to July 2027. It will teach the fyell and other traditional instruments. Young people from across southern …