Henna Partanen joins Greens mission to Albania in support of democracy, nature and local communities
From 29 June to 1 July, Henna Partanen, Greens & Progressives political coordinator in the ENVE Commission and member of the City Council of Espoo, took part in a Greens/EFA and European Green Party mission to Albania. The visit focused on environmental protection, democratic governance and the role of local communities in shaping Albania’s European future.
The delegation travelled to Tirana and the Vjosa-Narta area at a crucial moment for Albania’s EU accession process. Alongside Members of the European Parliament and representatives of the European Green Party, Partanen met local activists, environmental defenders and community representatives working to protect Albania’s unique natural heritage and strengthen democratic accountability.
A key part of the mission was engaging with local communities affected by large-scale development projects and listening to concerns about transparency, corruption and public participation in decision-making. Discussions highlighted the importance of involving citizens and local authorities in shaping sustainable development that benefits communities while preserving valuable natural areas.
The delegation also joined a public demonstration in Tirana under the slogan “Albania is not for sale”, expressing solidarity with citizens campaigning to safeguard the Vjosa-Narta protected landscape and calling for stronger protection of nature, democracy and the rule of law. The protest drew attention to concerns over developments threatening one of Albania’s most valuable ecosystems, home to internationally important bird populations including flamingos.
For Henna Partanen, the visit demonstrated the close connection between environmental protection and democratic governance.
“Strong local communities are the foundation of a resilient democracy. People must have a real say in decisions affecting their environment and future. Protecting nature, fighting corruption and strengthening local democracy are all part of building a sustainable European future.”
The mission reinforced a message long championed by the Greens & Progressives in the European Committee of the Regions: local and regional authorities play a crucial role in safeguarding democratic values and ensuring that development respects both people and nature. As Albania continues on its path towards EU membership, the Greens & Progressives support efforts to strengthen the rule of law, transparency and citizen participation while protecting the country’s rich natural heritage for future generations.
