UNESCO criticizes Albania over heritage site management at upcoming meeting

Tirana, July 16, 2024 — Albanian authorities are bracing for strong criticism at the upcoming UNESCO World Heritage Committee meeting in India later this month. The session, which will be the 46th, is expected to address concerns about the management of several Albanian heritage sites, including Butrint, Gjirokastër, and Berat.

UNESCO has released draft decisions pointing out Albania's failure to meet various obligations. The organization has voiced significant concerns regarding unregulated construction, particularly around Lake Ohrid, which affects both Albanian and Macedonian territories.

UNESCO's draft decisions highlight that Albania has not fully implemented the Management Plan for Gjirokastër and Berat, despite previous requests and funding of around $30,000. The plan was intended to be developed in collaboration with both government and civil society. In February, Albania reported that the team responsible for the plan was moved from the Ministry of Culture to another ministry, causing delays.

One of the critical points in UNESCO's draft is the construction of the Gjirokastër bypass road, which was completed without following UNESCO's guidelines. The organization has called for an urgent independent impact assessment of the project.

Additionally, UNESCO has urged Albania to submit detailed development project plans for Gjirokastër and Berat to ensure they do not harm these sites' universal values. The organization also stressed the need for Albania to update urban regulations for these historical centers and to continue efforts to curb illegal construction.

Despite these criticisms, UNESCO acknowledged progress made through the Revival Bonus initiative, aimed at enhancing preservation efforts and improving urban regulations.

Gjirokastër has been on UNESCO's World Heritage list since 2005, and Berat joined as a serial nomination in 2008.

Recently, Albanian cultural and environmental officials met with UNESCO leaders in Paris to agree on a work plan and technical cooperation protocol. Minister of Culture, Economy, and Innovation, Blendi Gonxhja, emphasized the importance of these agreements for facing upcoming challenges.

Environment Minister Mirela Kumbaro highlighted that sustainable tourism development in Albania relies heavily on its natural and cultural heritage.