blocking the road, opposing the highway

The highway could change the natural flow of the Shkumbin river, puts at risk the local wildlife and ecosystems of theShebenik-Jabllanica National Park, a UNESCO site, and cuts right through the village of Hotolisht, putting over 35 families at risk of losing their homes and affecting essential services like schools and healthcare.

Many residents are frustrated by the lack of public consultation about the project, feeling their voices have not been heard. So now, they are calling for alternatives to the current plan that would protect the river and their homes.

The initiative launched by Qendra Mjedisore për Studime dhe Zbatime (QMSZ, translates to Environmental Center for Studies and Applications) is called “United for Our Home: Resisting Harmful Infrastructure,” and aims to bring the community together to fight against the construction of this new highway.

Amplifying voices since 2018

QMSZ began in 2018 with grassroots efforts to clean up the heavily polluted River Shkumbin, addressing issues that local authorities had neglected. This successful project sparked a culture of activism and volunteerism in Librazhd, and allowed for the organization to grow and expand their focus on various community projects related to environmental protection, youth empowerment, rural development, and minority rights. QMSZ’s goal is to empower the Librazhd community to advocate for sustainable development and environmental protection, focusing on preserving the Shkumbin River and its surrounding ecosystems.

Through regular community meetings and workshops, the organization of protests and awareness campaigns, educational programs and a close eye on local and national policies, they try to foster a culture of activism in their community, amplify the voices of local residents and particularly marginalized groups, working towards social justice.

The action

During the summer of 2025, their campaign “United for Our Home: Resisting Harmful Infrastructure” was a big success. With the support of Het Actiefonds, QMSZ raised awareness, and advocated for sustainable alternatives to the highway construction.

Through community meetings and workshops, a media campaign, a petition presented to local officials and partnerships with organizations all over the region of Librazhd, they made sure the community was well informed and represented. The crown on their campaign was a big protest march, which they prepared for by organizing action trainings. They effectively blocked the main road leading through Hotolishti, the village that would be cut in half by the prospected highway.

A few stakeholders of the construction project have taken a step back and officials have invited a group of farmers and activists for roundtable discussions. There is now hope that the harmful infrastructure projects will not proceed, helping to protect local homes, communities, and the natural environment.

The struggle continues

QMSZ will continue to amplify the voices of Librazhd, partake in the roundtable discussion concerning the highway, and maintain pressure on the local governments. They are rooted in the community and will raise awareness around environmental issues in their region. Het Actiefonds will continue to stand in solidarity with GMSZ and all locally active environmental activist.