US report: Environmental protests in Albania turned into revolt against corruption

The protests in Albania against the project to build a tourist resort on the island of Sazan have been included in the Security for Albania report compiled by the Overseas Security Advisory Council (OSAC) , a structure of the US Department of State that assesses security risks to American citizens and businesses abroad.

The report pays particular attention to developments that initially began as environmental protests, but which then, according to the document, expanded into a broader movement against government corruption.

According to OSAC, the police response to the protests was accompanied by clashes and episodes of violence. 

The report also recalls the protests following the 2025 parliamentary elections, which were accompanied by massive marches in Tirana, blockades of the "Martyrs of the Nation" boulevard, and the use of pyrotechnic devices, including Molotov cocktails.

OSAC believes that protests in Albania are a common phenomenon and that, even when they begin peacefully, they can quickly escalate. For this reason, US citizens are advised to avoid areas where demonstrations are taking place.

Crime, one of the main concerns
Beyond political developments, the report identifies crime as one of the main risks for visitors to Albania.

According to the document, crime increased by about 17 percent during 2025. Among the main problems mentioned are criminal offenses related to drug trafficking, fraud, and gun crimes.

OSAC also highlights the presence of organized crime networks involved in drug trafficking, money laundering, human trafficking, extortion, prostitution and corruption.

The report also raises concerns about the circulation of illegal weapons and explosives, noting that some of them circulating in Europe originate from or transit through Albania.

Corruption and lack of transparency
An important part of the report is dedicated to corruption and the business climate.

OSAC highlights corruption in the administration, the justice system and public procurement, while also mentioning the lack of transparency and competition, the informal economy and poor contract enforcement as problems.

The report states that, although Albania has a legal framework for fighting corruption and preventing conflicts of interest, foreign investors continue to consider corruption a serious obstacle to the business environment.

The document also estimates that the creation of SPAK and the increase in investigations against officials have led to more arrests and prosecutions. However, according to OSAC, impunity remains a serious problem, as some officials, politicians, judges and economically influential people still manage to avoid prosecution.