UNESCO has officially recommended the designation of Albania’s Vjosa Valley as a Biosphere Reserve, with final approval expected in September 2025.
The announcement was made by Albanian Minister of Tourism and Environment, Mirela Kumbaro, who celebrated the news as an “extraordinary international recognition” of the untouched nature and continuous efforts to protect Europe’s last wild river.
A Global Model for Sustainable Development
In a public Facebook post, Kumbaro emphasized that Vjosa is no longer just a river, but a symbol of sustainable development and a source of inspiration for environmental preservation.
“It’s more than international recognition – it’s gratitude for the wild beauty of Vjosa, for the people who live in harmony with nature, and for the joint efforts in protecting Europe’s last wild river,” Kumbaro wrote.
This recommendation is the result of years of dedicated work by the Ministry of Tourism and Environment and the National Agency for Protected Areas, following the visit of UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay to Vjosa in February 2023.
What Comes Next?
The UNESCO Biosphere Reserves Council is expected to make a final decision in September 2025. If approved, Vjosa will gain global recognition as a model for ecological protection and sustainable tourism.
Why Vjosa Matters
- Vjosa River is one of the last wild rivers in Europe, flowing freely without dams for over 270 km.
- The region is home to rich biodiversity, including many endangered species.
- The local communities have long advocated for protection against industrial threats such as hydropower projects.
Kumbaro praised the collaborative effort between government agencies, environmental experts, and local residents that made this achievement possible.
