Lake Ohrid faces threats from urbanization and pollution; UNESCO grants Albania and North Macedonia five years to protect its shared heritage site.
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The Ohrid Lake region, a UNESCO World Heritage site facing threats from urbanization, illegal construction, and pollution, has been granted five years by UNESCO to strengthen its protection status, or risk having it questioned. Despite being recognized for its exceptional biodiversity and historical significance, the shared landscape between Albania and North Macedonia is deteriorating due to uncontrolled development along the Albanian shores, coupled with sewage pollution and infrastructure projects. While some view the decision as a diplomatic success, environmental experts remain skeptical, pointing to years of slow action and poor coordination from both governments. The required actions include demolishing illegal buildings, updating urban plans, conducting environmental impact assessments, and halting new developments until these studies are complete. Critics argue that the five-year deadline is insufficient given decades of accumulated problems, warning that failure to meet obligations could lead to the loss of World Heritage status.
