Albania has successfully concluded a series of three National Workshops, marking a significant step towards Shkoder Laker Watershed inclusion in UNESCO!

The participatory process, involving local stakeholders, kicked off in Shkoder from May 29-31, 2024. Over the course of three intensive days, 22 participants collaborated on defining key “Biodiversity, Ecosystem Services, and Human Well-being targets,” resulting in a clear, schematic framework for the conservation of biodiversity, culture, and sustainable development. During the first workshop, the geographic boundaries of the future Biosphere Reserve were introduced, and attendees worked together to articulate a shared vision for Lake Shkodra and its intrinsic values. To further explore water dynamics, benefits, and threats, the workshop concluded with a field visit to Rozafa Castle, where participants engaged in discussions, exchanged ideas, and closely observed the natural landscape and ecological phenomena.

The second national workshop took place from June 19-21, 2024, again in Shkoder, and continued the efforts under the theme of “Situation Analysis, Conceptual Modeling, and Zoning.” 44 participants worked together to identify key threats and contributing factors affecting the cultural and natural values of the Lake Shkodra watershed. Following this, stakeholders shared their recommendations on management, governance structures, and zoning for the future biosphere reserve. The discussion on management frameworks was greatly enriched by insights from Mr. Petr Čupa, a UNESCO expert in Biosphere Reserve Management, who shared successful examples and provided guidance on developing effective management structures for a transboundary biosphere reserve. Complementing the second workshop, the “Green Table – Shkoder Lake, a Transboundary Biosphere Reserve” event was organized by the National Agency for Protected Areas, featuring presentations on the current status of the lake’s watershed and fostering discussions with participants, adding value to the entire participative process. These exchanges led to valuable recommendations regarding challenges and sustainable development for the area.

The third and final workshop was held from July 17-19, 2024, in Shkoder, focusing on “Existing Strategies, Activities, and Planning.” This workshop consolidated efforts to draft strategies and action plans aimed at reducing identified threats while promoting cultural, natural, and economic goals. 27 participants also worked on the theory of change and revisited the proposed results chain from earlier transboundary workshops, reviewing existing strategies and ensuring their alignment with the broader situation analysis.

This comprehensive process, which actively engaged stakeholders operating in Shkoder and Malesi e Madhe, showcased a strong commitment to the sustainable development of the area and inspires confidence that Shkoder Lake watershed is on a promising path towards designation as a future UNESCO MAB Transboundary Biosphere Reserve.

1. First National Workshop