Scenes from Tirana: on activism, journalism and EU dreams

Felicia Linsér was FUF's correspondent in Tirana, Albania, during the spring. During her stay, she met with several activists to discuss the situation in the country. Photos: Felicia Linsér/Utvecklingsmagasinet

Of: Felicia Linsér

An ambitious government is enacting laws aimed at strengthening human rights and bringing Albania closer to the goal of EU membership in 2027. But behind the reforms and legal changes, criticism from journalists and activists is growing. Felicia Linsér, FUF's correspondent, describes snapshots from the spring in Tirana.

July 8, 2026, FUF-correspondents, Think piece

Despite new defamation law, Albanian journalists & activists are not protected

The update of the penal code is one of the Albanian government's adjustments to EU legislation. The country has set its sights on membership in 2030. Image: Lona/Unsplash.

Of: Felicia Linsér

Day 27   a change in the law on defamation was voted on ithrough of it Albanian Parliament. With the change in law, journalistst opportunities for freedom of expression are strengthened to some extent, but the Albanian civil society would have liked to see more far-reaching relief and warns of loopholes that could still make it difficult for journalists and freedom of expression activists. 

March 3, 2026, News

Fight for tourists and birds off the coast of Albania

The mallard is one of the bird species that nests in the national park. According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), the species is "near endangered" globally. Photo: Embassy of Sweden in Tirana, Albania.

Of: Sebastian brandt

In the middle of a national park in Albania, the construction of a huge tourist complex has been proposed. However, the proposal has not been well received by everyone in the country. Several environmental organizations have protested against the enormous impact such a construction would have on the environment, wildlife and local residents.

May 3, 2018, FUF-correspondents