Vjosa river wins UNESCO biosphere status

TIRANA, Sept 27 (TemA) — The Vjosa River has been added to UNESCO’s Man and the Biosphere network, giving Albania’s last wild river stronger protection.

The move means new international oversight, rules for conservation and research, and a framework for sustainable tourism along the river.

Officials said the listing crowns a four-year campaign and puts Vjosa on the map for donors and scientists.

The new status also means stricter scrutiny of projects near the river, with park managers and local councils tasked to align zoning and permits with UNESCO rules.