Biodiversity and the community belong to each other

The identity of communities in the Korab-Koritnik Nature Park and Shebenik National Park have been shaped significantly by nature and the ecosystems that surround them. These elements share an organic and enduring symbiosis. This relationship is particularly strong in protected areas, where unique ecosystems and biodiversity profoundly influence the lives of local communities.

With this symbiosis in mind, World Vision Albania, in collaboration with the Agritra-Vizion center in Peshkopi and “Përtej të sotmes” in Librazhdi, organised several meetings with community groups in Diber and Librazhd as part of their project “Community response/ownership development for biodiversity preservation in Korab-Koritnik Nature Park (KKNP) and Shebenik National Park (SHNP).”

Despite the legal mechanisms allowing for community participation in protected areas management, this is not an active and dynamic process.

However so far, the project has contributed to community engagement for the protection of the KKNP and SHNP areas, highlighting and strengthening the sense of belonging and the material, cultural, spiritual, historical, and identity connections built over generations.

It has been evident that communities are deeply sensitive to ecosystems and the diverse values of the parks. A total of 132 community members actively participated in learning about sustainable ways to utilise park resources. Educating them on the vital services ecosystems provide helped reinforce their connection to flora and fauna. They cherish biodiversity as it forms an integral part of their heritage and narrative across generations. The discussions have also allowed for community groups to envision the development of their areas as an integrated process. This process not only involves biodiversity and nature but also cultural and historical traditions, culinary heritage, and other aspects that contribute to the development of tourism in these regions.

Several small initiatives were identified by the community, focused on revitalisation, and required improvements near specific sites. They also recognised the importance of emphasising green initiatives as a means of generating income while contributing to the regeneration of ecosystems and plant areas. Nut trees and medicinal plants are alternatives in which families have shown interest for cultivation and management. Families have shown an interest in the cultivation and management of alternatives such as nut trees and medicinal plants.

They actively and willingly participate in periodic monitoring to identify and manage risks, including vegetation loss, soil degradation, or fire damage. These discussions have fostered an inclusive process, promoting positivity and community engagement to support the regeneration of nature and wildlife. Their dedication not only contributes to their livelihoods but also reflects a profound sense of responsibility for future generations. The suggestions and interests of the families and wider community are now being integrated into intervention plans and local partnerships, which align with the municipal development plans and the management plans of the Korab-Koritnik Natural Park and Shebenik National Park.

Some of these initiatives are part of the project World Vision Albania and other partners are implementing in the parks. Community engagement and response is strong. This will contribute to and ensure the sustainable protection of all local values, with ecosystems being among the most significant.

By: World Vision Albania