Case Study: Sustainable Development in Albania

In the video, we hear from Auron Tare. He talks about the previous lack of infrastructure in Butrint and the work that has been done there around generating new life for the area. At the time of recording, Auron was the Head of the National Agency of Coastline in Albania. Afterwards, he took on the role of UNESCO Chair of the Underwater World Scientific and Technical Council.

Auron questions how the protection of a landscape can also generate economic benefit, and the importance of connecting with local people as well as the archaeology of the area. In the next step, you’ll have the chance to discuss how Auron’s work fits into the Sustainable Development goals and contributes towards a sustainable future.

Update on Butrint’s management

Since our filming much has changed for Butrint. The Albanian Government commissioned a management plan from the American-Albanian Development Foundation (AADF), a private organisation registered in Delaware, USA. The result of this is that AADF will take over management of the ancient city. They will invest $7m USD into the site and separate its management from that of the wetlands and woodlands.

This plan has drawn criticism for the lack of engagement with archeologists in the process and because it places practical control of Butrint into the hands of a non-domestic non-public entity. Auron Tare has joined the national debate on the subject, appearing on several news reports challenging the new arrangements.

For more coverage of this see: The Ancient City of Butrint to be Managed by a Non-Public Entity (Exit News) and AADF’s Butrint page.