‘Lifeless’: Pollution Threatens the Drin and its Tributaries in Three Balkan States
Without concerted action, pollution threatens to leave the Drin River and its main tributaries “lifeless”, environmentalists in Albania, Kosovo and North Macedonia warn. Original post Here
Albania’s Marginalised Small Parties Spy Opportunity in 2025 Elections
In a system that favours the two big players, their smaller rivals have traditionally stood no chance – but might things be different in the looming May 2025 elections? Original post Here
Albanian Politician’s Arrest Lays Bare Organised Crime’s Electoral Influence
Corruption charges against a former MP of the ruling Socialist Party represent a case study in the transactional relationship between organised crime and politics in Albania, a relationship with the power to tip the electoral scales, experts say. Original post Here
Albanian Cannabis Gangs Exploit Poverty to Hire Female Day Labourers
Women from impoverished parts of Albania are being lured into work as day labourers on illegal cannabis plantations; if caught, they face paying a high price for what their lawyers say is effectively ‘modern slavery’. Original post Here
Afghan Refugees in Albania Alarmed as Trump Slams US Doors
New US administration’s freeze on foreign aid and crackdown on immigration has left Afghan refugees in Albania in a state of limbo. Original post Here
2025- Tirana the Mediterranean capital of culture and dialogue
On top of celebrations, the city will serve also as a agora of open debate Tirana, the capital of Albania, has started its year as the Mediterranean Capital of Culture and Dialogue for 2025. This title recognizes the city’s cultural growth and its importance in the Mediterranean region. Tirana and …
Albanian ‘Smart City’ Deal with UAE Firm Flagged as ‘Serious’ Surveillance Risk
Digital rights groups have sounded the alarm over a city ‘smart camera’ deal between Albania and an Abu Dhabi-based company with links to UAE security services and – allegedly – China. Original post Here
Trump’s Suspension of US Foreign Aid Hits Hundreds of Balkan Projects
The three-month pause in foreign aid imposed by the new US administration has left the future of numerous civil society, human rights and independent media projects in the Western Balkans in limbo. Original post Here
SPAK takes measures to implement a dedicated strategy against electoral crime
TIRANA, Jan 29, 2025 – The Special Prosecutor’s Office (SPAK) has outlined its plan to investigate and prevent electoral crimes for the May 11, 2025 elections. Under the direction of Chief Prosecutor Altin Dumani, the plan includes the creation of a Task Force, field monitoring and investigations, and a special platform …
Swiss cultural week provides a highlight for Albanian art and creativity
Unlike typical cultural weeks organized by embassies, this event features the works of Albanian artists Jan 29, 2025 The Swiss Cultural Week 2025 officially began on January 28, kicking off a nine-day program that highlights the artistic talents of Albania’s independent cultural community while promoting dialogue on social issues. The …
Finance Minister Petrit Malaj said economic growth has increased financial support for citizens. He referred to state budget figures for the first 7 months of the year. During this period, the government spent ALL 841 million more than a year earlier on economic assistance, people with disabilities and their caregivers. …
Prime Minister Edi Rama shared images of the transformed Koman road, on social media today. The road connects the Vau i Dejës and Koman hydroelectric power plants. Rama highlights its setting in the spectacular landscape of northern Albania. The reconstruction began in February last year. The project received around ALL …
A small but valuable photo collection has joined the Albanian Telegraphic Agency’s (ATA) archives. The collection brings back images of Tirana in February 1991, during one of the most turbulent periods of Albania’s transition from communist rule. Photographer Petrit Kozeli took the images while working in Tirana. The original photographs …
The Albanian manufacturing sector is seeking tax and financial measures to offset rising costs and encourage investment in technology. During consultations on the 2027 Fiscal Package, the Albanian Manufacturing Association submitted several proposals to the authorities. One calls for aligning the tax-free threshold with the minimum wage. Economic specialist Florian …
The Ethnographic Museum in Gjirokastër used traditional clothing today to present the city’s history and traditions. The activity introduced visitors to clothing elements from the area and their meaning across generations. Tourists praised the clothing and its detailed craftsmanship. They said the garments also offered insights into local culture and …
Interest in swimming remains high among children in Saranda. Around 60 children of different age groups currently train with the city’s swimming team, according to coach Edmond Vasi. Vasi said children’s participation supports physical development, discipline and self-confidence. He said the team includes children aged 14 and under, including 12 …
The National Theatre of Opera, Ballet and Folk Ensemble (TKOBAP) will open its doors to the public on September 15 as part of “Open Opera – A Day at the Theatre.” The event will give visitors a chance to explore the theatre beyond the stage. They will discover the spaces, …
Defence Minister Ermal Nufi met Japan’s Parliamentary Vice-Minister of Defense Yohei Wakabayashi to discuss international and regional security developments. They also discussed opportunities to strengthen bilateral defence and security cooperation. Nufi said Albania considers Japan an important partner. He said the two countries can expand cooperation through expert exchanges, stronger …
Albania, Greece and North Macedonia aim to advance their joint bid to nominate the Lake Prespa region for UNESCO World Heritage status. The region spans all three countries. Tourism, Culture and Sports Minister Blendi Gonxhja discussed the initiative with Greece’s new ambassador to Albania, Lambrini Komini. Albania welcomes the proposal …
Tickets for Albania’s two UEFA Nations League matches at Air Albania Stadium can now also be bought in person. Albania will face Belarus on September 26 and San Marino on October 6. The Albanian Football Federation said fans can buy tickets online through the official ebileta.al platform. They can also …