‘Administrative Silence’: FOI Requests Go Unanswered in Balkans, BIRN Report Says
Public institutions in the six Western Balkan countries routinely refuse to respond to freedom of information requests, and it’s getting worse, a new report from the Balkan Investigative Reporting Network warns. Original post Here
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 …
Albanian Alps attract thousands of domestic and international visitors as mountain tourism continues to grow during the summer season. In early July, visitors explore the National Park of the Albanian Alps, drawn by its spectacular landscapes, hiking routes, and unique natural attractions. Moreover, foreign tourists choose the region for outdoor …
TIRANA, July 7 – Tirana will host an international music event on Saturday, July 11, as Kanye West, also known as Ye, performs in the capital. Prime Minister Edi Rama shared images of the stadium under construction in Kashar, on the outskirts of Tirana. Organisers are preparing the venue specifically …
TIRANA, July 7 – Albania is expected to join 9 NATO allies in signing an agreement to establish the Defence Bank during the Alliance’s summit in Ankara. The new financial mechanism will support investments in the defence industry, military technologies, and the strengthening of member states’ defence capabilities. From Ankara, …
TIRANA, July 7 – Around 300 students from different countries have joined the 25th edition of the International Summer University of Prishtina. The University of Prishtina “Hasan Prishtina” opened the programme near the Rectorate. Institutional representatives, international guests, professors, and students attended the opening event. This year’s edition includes cultural …
AF Elbasani starts Albania’s journey in the 2026–2027 European football competitions as the club faces BATE Borisov in the first qualifying round of the UEFA Conference League. The team will host the first leg today at “Elbasan Arena” at 20:00, marking an important moment for the club and its supporters. …
TIRANA, July 7 – No fires have been reported so far in the protected areas of Shkodër region, despite high temperatures and a significant increase in visitors during the summer season. The Administration of Protected Areas (AdZM) Shkodër said cooperation with municipalities and fire services has strengthened prevention measures. The …
TIRANA, July 7 – Prime Minister Edi Rama presented a project for a new European-standard excellence hospital in Tirana. The San Donato Group will build the facility as part of efforts to transform healthcare services in Albania and the Western Balkans. Rama said the hospital will create new opportunities for …
The Albanian Football Federation continues major improvements at the “Air Albania” Stadium as the country prepares to host matches of the UEFA European Under-21 Championship 2027. Workers have completed the removal of the old grass surface and carried out upgrades to the field’s foundation. They have now started installing the …
German magazine “CHIP” lists Albania among the top recommended destinations for 2026, highlighting the country as an ideal choice for travelers seeking authentic experiences away from mass tourism. Travel bloggers from “Reisekröten” include Albania among five peaceful holiday destinations and describe it as a “hidden gem” for visitors who want …
The Albanian women’s national football team starts a historic journey in the play-off stage of the FIFA Women’s World Cup Brazil 2027 after UEFA’s draw placed Wales as its first-round opponent. The red-and-black team will open the campaign in front of Albanian supporters on October 9, when it hosts Wales …