Albania is the newest member country of the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC), a commitment that further advances Albania’s comprehensive vision for the tourism sector.

“We are pleased that the Albania Ministry of Tourism and Environment has joined our global network as a GSTC Member and are committed to promoting sustainable tourism practices. We look forward to working with them to advance sustainable tourism practices in their country,” said Randy Durband, GSTC CEO.

The Ministry of Tourism and Environment of Albania (MOTE) has made significant strides in aligning the country’s tourism industry with sustainability goals. As part of this commitment, Albania joined the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC), underscoring its dedication to preserving the environment while boosting tourism. Albania’s tourism strategy integrates environmental concerns with local community engagement, ensuring that sustainable practices guide the country’s tourism growth.

In October 2024, Albania’s Minister of Tourism and Environment, Mirela Kumbaro, unveiled the National Tourism Strategy 2024-2030. This ambitious plan outlines the country’s approach to sustainable tourism, aiming to enhance tourism’s year-round appeal and elevate Albania as a diversified destination. The strategy is based on six core pillars, including infrastructure investments, fiscal policies, destination management, product development, marketing, and workforce training. By focusing on these areas, Albania seeks to boost tourism revenues and reduce the seasonality of the industry, creating a more stable economic foundation.

Additionally, the strategy divides Albania into six tourism regions to foster tailored tourism development: the Adriatic Coast, the Northern Interior, Tirana, the Ionian Coast, and the Southern Interior. These regions will help refine tourism offerings, from eco-tourism experiences to cultural and historical tours, contributing to a broader and more sustainable tourism landscape.

Albania’s commitment to sustainability is further supported by its partnership with the United Nations. In 2022, the UN and Albania signed a Sustainable Development Cooperation Framework that aligns Albania’s tourism and environmental goals with the broader objectives of the European Union and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The cooperation is aimed at helping Albania’s tourism industry grow in harmony with its environmental and social priorities.

“Albania has a unique approach to tourism that’s even reflected in our policies. We are one of the few countries where tourism and environmental management are governed by the same ministry, creating an internal check-and-balance system. Our goal is to develop tourism as the major sector of our economy, but we’re equally committed to doing it sustainably, caring for our natural surroundings. The UN Tourism Barometer shows Albania leading Europe in the rise of international visitors. Meanwhile, we’ve designated over 21% of our land as protected area, with national and natural parks offering beautiful opportunities for ecotourism such as Vjosa, the last wild river of Europe. I am confident that GSTC will help us even more towards our objectives for a sustainable tourism that respects the environment”, said Mirela Kumbaro, Minister of Tourism and Environment of Albania.

Albania has already become a leader in Europe in attracting international visitors, as highlighted by the UN Tourism Barometer, and the country is poised to continue its momentum in sustainable tourism development.

In a strategic move to further enhance sustainable tourism, Albania’s Ministry of Tourism and Environment has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) and RisiAlbania/Helvetas in August 2024. This agreement aims to foster collaboration between the parties, promoting the adoption of the GSTC Criteria and advancing sustainable tourism practices in the country.

The partnership will help establish a National Framework for Sustainable Tourism, encouraging local businesses to pursue certification through GSTC-Accredited Certification Bodies. This framework is designed to provide clear guidelines and support to Albania’s tourism sector as it works towards achieving internationally recognized sustainability standards.

To build on this collaboration, the Ministry of Tourism and Environment of Albania will host a Sustainable Tourism Conference in Tirana on December 6th, 2024. The event, supported by RisiAlbania and the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC), will bring together key stakeholders from both the public and private sectors. This includes representatives from the GSTC, the UN Tourism sector, and a range of tourism industry leaders, including hotel operators, tour agencies, and eco-tourism advocates.

The conference aims to highlight Albania’s sustainable tourism initiatives and offer a platform for sharing best practices, challenges, and strategies for fostering a more sustainable and resilient tourism sector. The partnership between the Ministry and the GSTC is expected to be a pivotal step in further elevating Albania’s position as a leader in sustainable tourism development.

By embracing sustainability, Albania is not only protecting its natural treasures but also positioning itself as a model for responsible tourism growth in the region. With its stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and forward-thinking tourism policies, Albania is set to become a prime destination for eco-conscious travelers in the years to come.

Albania, a hidden gem on the Balkan Peninsula often dubbed ‘Europe’s last unturned stone,’ is emerging as a captivating tourism destination that seamlessly combines natural beauty with rich cultural heritage. From its pristine beaches to the rugged Albanian Alps, and with numerous UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the country offers a diverse range of attractions that cater to travelers seeking history, adventure, and relaxation.