Published on
September 13, 2025
EU has launched a funding programme of over five million euros to help tackle climate challenges and boost sustainable tourism in Albania and Kosovo. This initiative is designed to address the growing environmental challenges faced by both countries, such as climate change and biodiversity loss, while promoting tourism practices that respect and preserve their natural and cultural heritage. By supporting collaborative projects, the funding will enable both nations to enhance climate resilience, protect their ecosystems, and develop sustainable tourism, ultimately ensuring that economic growth does not come at the expense of environmental sustainability.
The program encourages proposals that aim to tackle urgent environmental issues and foster long-term sustainable practices, reflecting the EU’s commitment to supporting the region’s green transition. With both Albania and Kosovo facing the growing impact of climate change, biodiversity loss, and environmental degradation, these funds will provide vital resources to implement projects that protect the natural environment while supporting socio-economic development. By prioritizing the sustainability of natural resources and ecosystems, the program aims to create a balance between development and conservation.
Climate change remains one of the most pressing challenges in the Balkans, where both countries are already feeling its effects. Rising temperatures, extreme weather events, and changes in precipitation patterns are putting pressure on local ecosystems and livelihoods. In this context, the call for proposals emphasizes projects that aim to enhance climate resilience, improve disaster preparedness, and safeguard ecosystems against the impacts of climate change. These projects could involve everything from reforestation efforts to sustainable water management practices, all aimed at making both countries more resilient to the effects of global warming.
Sustainable tourism is also a key focus of the programme. Albania and Kosovo both boast diverse landscapes and rich cultural heritage, making them attractive tourist destinations. However, the growth of tourism in the region needs to be managed carefully to avoid over-exploitation of natural and cultural assets. The EU funding program calls for projects that develop sustainable tourism practices, which respect the environment and local communities. Proposals could include eco-tourism initiatives, the restoration and conservation of cultural landmarks, and the creation of tourism infrastructure that promotes environmental awareness among visitors. The goal is to ensure that tourism contributes to local economies while preserving the unique features that make the region so special.
The funding is available to both civil society organizations and public institutions, with a particular emphasis on fostering collaboration between these sectors. Public institutions can partner with local NGOs and other stakeholders to design and implement projects that are well-informed by local knowledge and needs. This collaborative approach is essential for ensuring the success of the projects, as it ensures that they are tailored to the specific challenges faced by communities in both Albania and Kosovo.
Proposals for funding must be submitted by October 24, 2025, providing ample time for interested parties to prepare their applications. The funds will support all stages of project development, from planning to implementation and monitoring. This ensures that projects are not only innovative and sustainable but also achievable within the set time frame. Successful projects will be able to access financial support to cover various aspects, including project management, stakeholder engagement, and operational costs.
The Albania–Kosovo Cross-Border Cooperation Programme is financed through EU pre-accession funds, which aim to assist countries in the Western Balkans in preparing for eventual EU membership. The program’s focus on environmental sustainability and tourism development aligns with the broader EU goal of supporting the region’s transition to a more sustainable and integrated future.
By supporting initiatives that promote environmental protection and sustainable tourism, this programme aims to strengthen the ties between Albania and Kosovo, helping both countries move toward a greener, more sustainable future. As both nations continue to work together to address common challenges, this funding opportunity provides an invaluable resource for creating lasting change. The initiative not only benefits the environment but also offers economic and social opportunities that can improve the quality of life for local communities.
EU has launched a €5 million funding programme to tackle climate challenges and promote sustainable tourism in Albania and Kosovo. This initiative aims to support collaborative projects focused on environmental protection and sustainable development.
In summary, the EU’s €5.28 million funding opportunity presents a significant chance for Albania and Kosovo to work together on pressing environmental and cultural issues. By fostering joint projects focused on climate change, environmental conservation, and sustainable tourism, this initiative has the potential to create long-term benefits for both countries, improving their resilience, protecting their natural resources, and promoting sustainable development for years to come.
