Western Balkans Join Forces for Safer, Fairer, and More Regular Labor Migration
October 31, 2025
As part of the NaturEUnite Project, Albania hosted a three-day international study visit, from March 21-23, 2026, bringing together 30 representatives from Nature Parks and environmental organizations across Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Slovenia, and Albania.
The visit aimed to promote knowledge exchange and cross-border cooperation on environmental protection, sustainable tourism, and community engagement in nature conservation.
Participants explored key locations in southern Albania, including Memaliaj, Përmet, and Këlcyrë, as well as the surrounding areas of the Vjosa Wild River National Park, one of Europe’s last free-flowing rivers and a model for sustainable conservation.
During the visit, participants:
- engaged with local municipalities on participatory governance and EU values
- met with local businesses to explore eco-tourism and rural entrepreneurship
- visited cultural and natural heritage sites, including Leusë village and Bënjë Thermal Baths
- exchanged experiences on protecting natural ecosystems while supporting local development
The study visit highlighted Albania’s growing role as a regional example of balancing environmental protection with economic development, particularly through the protection of the Vjosa River.
Participants emphasized the importance of:
- strengthening cooperation between European Nature Parks
- promoting community involvement in environmental protection
- developing sustainable tourism models across the region
The NaturEUnite project will continue to foster collaboration among partner countries, supporting innovative approaches to conservation and sustainable development across Europe.
