The Central Election Commission (CEC) has decided to provide the standard form to the initiative group seeking to collect 50,000 signatures for a referendum on repealing Law No. 21/2024 on protected areas. The initiative follows continued opposition from environmental organizations and activists to the law, which they say could facilitate tourism developments within protected areas.
The initiative group argues that Law No. 21/2024 on protected areas undermines the original objective of nature conservation, particularly through the introduction of the concept of “excellence tourism.” According to the group, this provision creates opportunities for the construction of accommodation facilities and tourism infrastructure in areas where such developments were previously subject to management plans and public consultations.
The initiators warn that such an approach could lead to habitat fragmentation, damage to ecological corridors, increased pressure on water resources, and the loss of ecosystem services. They also argue that the amendments could conflict with Albania’s international commitments and the requirements of the European Union integration process, particularly regarding the protection of habitats and areas within the Natura 2000 network.
The proposed question to be put to citizens is: “Should Law No. 21/2024, ‘On Some Additions and Amendments to Law No. 81/2017, “On Protected Areas”,’ be repealed?” In order for the referendum to take place, the group must begin the procedure of collecting 50,000 signatures from registered voters.
The initiative follows protests held in Tirana against the amendments to the law, while the debate over protected areas continues to divide the parties involved. Environmental organizations and activists oppose the possibility of tourism developments in these areas, while the government has defended the amendments, arguing that their aim is to promote high-end tourism without compromising nature conservation.
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