PRESS RELEASE
“UNPROTECTED” AREAS OF ALBANIA
PARLIAMENT IGNORES THE PROTESTS OF CIVIL SOCIETY AND APPROVES THE DRAFT LAW ON PROTECTED AREAS
Citizens and Civil Society Express Their Disappointment After the Approval of the Draft Law That Openly Threatens Albania’s Protected Areas
Tirana, Albania – February 22, 2024: Despite the calls outside the Parliament of Albania, citizens, groups of civil society organizations, and experts in the field of nature conservation were disappointed as they witnessed the approval of the draft law “On some additions and changes to Law No. 81/2017 for Protected Areas” today, a mere 7 minutes after the commencement of the plenary session.
The protest, which started at 9:30, was organized to express opposition to the draft law that threatens the integrity of Albania’s Protected Areas. Outside the walls of the Parliament of Albania, a unified voice resonated today, echoing the collective concern for the well-being of future generations and the preservation of our nation’s natural heritage, acknowledged by international networks.
Nevertheless, within the chambers of power, this call was met with indifference. Despite the calls, parliamentary proceedings persisted, resulting in the endorsement of the draft law. The ratified draft law now sets the stage for the degradation of National Parks and signals the demise of the national network of Protected Areas, reclassifying them as “Unprotected Areas”.
This legislation imperils decades of conservation endeavors and investments aimed at protecting our nation’s natural resources. In collaboration with civil society organizations and experts in the field of nature conservation, we have reviewed the changes approved today and opposed their implementation. The disregard for public sentiment exhibited today is deeply disappointing.
The outcome of today’s parliamentary session underscores the imperative for sustained commitment to the protection of Albania’s natural heritage and confronting the challenges that lie ahead. The changes approved in the draft law bring considerable risk to the future of the Albanian environment, threatening the values and natural resources that are deeply important for the identity of our country.
For media inquiries or additional information, please contact:
Lorena Pyze Xhafaj │ Communications and Public Relations Officer
Email: [email protected]
For more information:
https://ppnea.org/farewell-divjaka-national-park-under-the-threat-of-development/?lang=en
