The Albanian Academy of Sciences has voiced its opposition against the plan to hand the management of Butrint to a foundation that includes the Albanian American Development Fund, a foreign entity.
In 2020, the law changed to allow Butrint to be controlled by the Ministry of Culture and a “strategic partner” as a part of the Integrated Management Plan for Butrint National Park.”
The plan to change the law was drafted by a British law firm commissioned by the AADF.
The Ancient City of Butrint to be Managed by a Non-Public Entity
Now, it is confirmed that AADF will be part of the Butrint Management Foundation, which will see the site partially controlled by a private entity for the first time in its history. They will be involved in managing it for a period of ten years in return for a grant of $5 million.
On Monday, the plan was approved by parliament with a majority vote of 75 for, 18 against, and one abstention.
In a conference on Tuesday, Skender Gjinushi said that the Academy of Sciences was not consulted in the process.
“First it was up to the government to consult with the Academy and to consult with the relevant institutes. In scientific management, ie research, restoration, etc., we protect the interests or the role of institutes. Institutes can not remain indifferent or agree to be excluded. Personally, I think that there is a gap here, there is a bypass,” he said.
“We did not think it would pass so quickly,” Gjinushi added.
During the conference, various academics spoke out against the project.
Former director of the park Auron Tare criticised those who supported the project.
“It is not allowed in America for a foreign foundation to change the law, make the management plan, create the board, introduce itself, take Butrint and manage it for itself. This work is not allowed in America, it is not allowed! Why do you allow it? Here you are, professors. Why do you allow it?” Tare said.
Albanian Parliament Approves Draft Law on Management of Butrint National Park
