Although presented as a measure to regularise inherited land and support family-run agritourism businesses, the law allows informal landowners to purchase state land for one euro and provides substanial tax incentives. However, our findings show that the legal ramework favours large-scale tourism and energy investments, centralising decision-making power within the National Territorial Council and reducing local authorities' oversight capabilities.
Five priority development zones have already been designated, including areas within the 'Alps of Albania' National Park. Approximately 72% of the planned development area overlaps with the park’s central protection zone. Legal amendments also permit the conversion of forests, pastures and meadows into land that can be developed.
Experts are warning of habitat fragmentation, biodiversity loss, and weakened cross-border environmental cooperation. These issues are raising concerns about compliance with EU environmental standards.
Image by Kristi Bashmili.
