PROKLETIJE-BJESHKET E NAMUNA

Preparation for implementation of the Area Based Development (ABD) Approach in the Western Balkans

BASELINE STUDY AND STRATEGIC PLAN FOR DEVELOPMENT OF THE CROSS-BORDER REGION “PROKLETIJE- BJESHKËT E NAMUNA” BASELINE STUDY AND STRATEGIC PLAN FOR DEVELOPMENT OF THE CROSS-BORDER REGION “PROKLETIJE- BJESHKËT E NAMUNA”

“This document has been produced with the financial assistance of the European Union. The contents of this document are the sole responsibility of the Regional Rural Development Standing Working Group in South Eastern Europe (SEE) and can under no circumstances be regarded as reflecting the position of the European Union.”

This document is output of the IPA II Multi-country action programme 2014 Project ”Fostering regional cooperation and balanced territorial development of Western Balkan countries in the process towards EU integration – Support to the Regional Rural Development Standing Working Group (SWG) in South-East Europe”

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Published by: Regional Rural Development Standing Working Group in SEE (SWG) Blvd. Goce Delcev 18, MRTV Building, 12th floor, 1000 Skopje, Macedonia

Preparation for implementation of the Area Based Development (ABD) Approach in the Western Balkans Baseline Study and Strategic Plan for development of the cross-border region “Prokletije- Bjeshkët e Namuna”

On behalf of SWG: Boban Ilić Authors: Suzana Djordjević Milošević, Fatmir Guri, Jelena Krivčević, Irena Djimrevska, in cooperation with stakeholders from the region “Prokletije- Bjeshkët e Namuna” Editor: Damjan Surlevski Proofreading: Ana Popova Manasievska Design: Filip Filipović Photos: SWG Head Office/Secretariat and Irena Djimrevska

CIP - Каталогизација во публикација Национална и универзитетска библиотека "Св. Климент Охридски", Скопје

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PREPARATION for implementation of the area based development (ABD) approach in the Western Balkans : Baseline study and strategic plan for development of the cross-border region Prokletije - Bjeshkët e namuna / [authors Suzana Djordjević Milošević ... и др.]. - Skopje : Standing working group for regional rural development (SWG), 2017. - 145 стр. : илустр. ; 30 см

Публикацијата е во рамките на проектот: "Fostering regional cooperation and balanced territorial development of Western Balkan countries in the process towards EU integration - support to the regional rural development standing working group (SWG) in South-East Europe". - Автори: Suzana Djordjević Milošević, Fatmir Guri, Jelena Krivčević, Irena Djimrevska

ISBN 978-608-4760-21-4 1. Djordjević Milošević, Suzana [автор] а) Локална самоуправа - Меѓународна соработка - Балкан COBISS.MK-ID 103428874

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LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS

ABDA Area-Based Development Approach ALB Albania CAP Common Agricultural Policy (EU) CB Cross Border CBC Cross Border Cooperation CBD Convention for Biological Diversity CEFTA Central European Free Trade Agreement CSO Civil Society Organization DG AGRI Directorate General for Agriculture EC European Commission EU European Union EUR Euro (currency) FAO Food and Agricultural Organization FF Family Farms GDP Gross Domestic Product GIZ German International Cooperation HACCP Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points ICT Information and Communication Technologies IFAD International Fund for Agricultural Development IPA Instrument for Pre-Accession Assistance (EU) IPA CBC Instrument for Pre-Accession Assistance for Cross Border Cooperation IPARD Instrument for Pre-Accession Assistance Rural Development ISO International Organization for Standardization JICA Japan International Cooperation Agency JRC IPTS Joint Research Center of EC, Institute for Prospective Technological Studies KOS* Kosovo* LAG Local Action Group LEADER Liaison Entre Actions de Développement de l'Économie Rurale (FR) LED Local Economic Development LFA Less Favorable Area MNE Montenegro NGO Non-Governmental Organization NP National Park

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NUTS Nomenclature for Territorial Units for Statistics OECD Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development OECD-DAC Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development, Development As- sistance Committee PDO Protected Designation of Origin PGI Protected Geographic Indication P to P People to People RD Rural Development RDA Regional Development Agency SEE South Eastern Europe SHG Stakeholder Group SIDA Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency SME Small and Medium Size Enterprises SWG RRD Standing Working Group for Regional Rural Development in South Eastern Europe SWOT Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats TBC To be confirmed TBD To be defined TO Tourism Organization UNDP United Nations Development Programme UNESCO The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization USAID United States Agency for International Development WB Western Balkans WWF Med Pro World Wild Fund for Nature- Mediterranean Protection

* This designation is without prejudice to positions on status, and is in line with UNSCR 1244 and the ICJ Opinion on the Kosovo declaration of independence.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

1. CROSS-BORDER REGION „PROKLETIJE- BJESHKËT E NAMUNA“ (introductory remarks)...... 08

2. BASELINE ANALYSIS OF THE CROSS-BORDER REGION „PROKLETIJE- BJESHKËT E NAMUNA“ ...... 13 2.1. Introduction...... 13 2.2. Geographical area...... 13

3. A QUANTIFIED DESCRIPTION OFTHE CURRENT SITUATION...... 20 3.1. Human pottential...... 20 3.1.1. Demography...... 20 3.1.2. Education...... 23 3.1.3. Civil society organizations (CSO)...... 24 3.1.4. Social exclusion...... 24

4. NATURAL AND CULTURAL RESOURCES...... 26 4.1. Natural resources...... 26 4.2. Environmental protection...... 31 4.3. Historical and cultural heritage...... 32

5. ECONOMIC ACTIVITIES AND OPPORTUNITIES...... 37 5.1. Infrastructure and transportation...... 37 5.2. Employment...... 39 5.3. Local economy per economic sectors...... 40 5.3.1. Agriculture...... 40 5.3.2 Tourism...... 45 5.3.3 Other sectors...... 48

6. CROSS-BORDER COOPERATION AND INSTITUTIONAL POSSIBILITIES...... 49

7. CONCLUSIONS, GENERAL REMARKS ABOUT THE REGION...... 51 7.1. Assessment of social capital from the perspective of rural development...... 51 7.2. General conclusions on human resources...... 52 7.3. Assesment of natural and cultural heritage with regard to rural development...... 52 7.4. Estimate of the level of sustainability within the existing economy...... 53 7.5. Classifying the region– potential for common rural development and capacities for improving cross-border cooperation...... 53

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8. STRATEGIC PLANNING FOR THE CROSS-BORDER REGION “PROKLETIJE- BJESHKËT E NAMUNA”...... 54 8.1. Rationale behind the idea of establishing the cross-border region and starting the strategic planning process...... 54 8.2. Analysis of the potential necessary for the development of rural economy...... 69 8.3. Priority needs and development priorities...... 73 8.4. Determination of the specific objectives (goals) and vision...... 83 8.5. Action planning...... 85 8.6. Strategic matrix...... 91

9. PROJECT CONCEPTS...... 94

ANNEXES...... 101 ANNEX 1: Exploratory survey, questionnaire for stakeholders, English version...... 101 ANNEX 2: Questionnaire for stakeholders...... 102 ANNEX 3: Validating questionnaire filled in (example for the albanian part)...... 111 ANNEX 4: List of participants on the meetings of the stakeholder group (SHG)...... 115 ANNEX 5: Municipal ID card...... 119

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1. CROSS-BORDER REGION PROKLETIJE- BJESHKËT E NAMUNA“ (introductory remarks)

“Prokletije-Bjeshkët e Namuna” (Montenegrin/Serbian-Albanian) cross-border region is one of the rural areas belonging to neighbouring South-East European countries, established by the Regional Rural Development Standing Working Group (SWG).

„Prokletije- Bjeshkët e Namuna“ cross-border region is shared between Albania, Kosovo* and Montenegro. The region is geographically positioned in the Dinaric mountain range of the Western Balkans, with typical sub-alpine and alpine karst landscape, spreading to Skadar/Shkodra lake area. The primarily selected area was named Prokletije Region after the Montenegrin/Serb name of the mountains which are mostly covered by this region. After the final participatory delimitation of the area belonging to the new cross-border region, its temporary working name Prokletije Region evolved into its final name “Prokletije- Bjeshkët e Namuna” Region.

The Regional Stakeholder Group which worked on its delimitation, baseline analysis and strategic planning, decided to name the region “Prokletije- Bjeshkët e Namuna” after the Montenegrin/Serbian and Albanian original name of the mountain, taking into consideration the wish of both ethnicities to have a name understandable in both languages. Moreover, this double name was found to be the most suitable since it describes the attractiveness of the strong, severe and challenging living area with an impressive nature, in the same way in both languages (its meaning in both Montenegrin/ Serbian and Albanian is Cursed Mountains).

The SWG Assembly during the 32nd Assembly Session held in Brussels in April 2015 selected this region as one of the regions for further implementation of the Area Based Development Approach (ABDA). However the process leading to establishment of „Prokletije- Bjeshkët e Namuna“ Region started much earlier, several years ago, when SWG Assembly decided to work on introducing of ABDA as a concept which is recognised as a possible tool to help support the development of vulnerable rural regions in cross-border areas of the Western Balkan.

Based on the first assessment of cross-border regions in the Western Balkan countries, the SWG Assembly proposed the initial borders of the region. An expert was engaged to do a more precise proposal for delimitation and to describe the region along with other regions taken into consideration for further work related to ABD implementation. The final delimitation, its baseline analysis, strategic and action planning was conducted by interested parties in the region with the assistance of the SWG Area Based Development team (ABD team). The whole process was financially supported through the implementation of the project: ”Fostering regional cooperation and balanced territorial development of Western Balkan countries in the process towards EU integration - Support to the Regional Rural Development Standing Working Group (SWG) in South-East Europe” funded by the European Union.

The project was using the Area Based Development Approach (ABDA) for establishment of 3 new cross-border rural regions in the Western Balkans which should boost economy development in the several border areas belonging to 8 SWG countries.

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The Area Based Development (ABD) is an innovative approach enabling a breakthrough in sustainable economic growth by targeting defined geographical areas in cross-border regions, which are characterized by a set of common, complex development problems. It is considered to be an effective approach to facilitate sustainable growth in rural areas in decline. It is suitable for targeting defined geographical areas in cross-border regions in the Western Balkans. The approach uses a methodology, which is inclusive, participatory, flexible, and ensures integration and coherence.

In the rural areas of the „Prokletije- Bjeshkët e Namuna“ Region, these shared characteristics are numerous:

1. Common culture of the mountain communities, shaped by severe natural conditions in the mountains; 2. Common natural resources of forests and pastures; 3. Negative population trends etc.

Considering road infrastructure, the “Prokletije - Bjeshkët e Namuna” Region is accessible from other regions, yet its future development is a challenge due to insufficiently strong internal bonds between its communities, especially across the national border between Montenegro and Albania. These bonds go beyond physical connections and road networks to all segments of life, and create numerous development challenges for its rural areas: socio/economic, including consequences of recent war conflicts, as well as turning difficulties caused by differences in ethnicity and religion, to advantages by using part of the successful common heritage.

The ”Prokletije- Bjeshkët e Namuna“ Region needs to develop functional permanent networks in different segments –from local governments, to operative and implementing structures to overcome common risks related to environmental threats, such as natural disasters and forest fires.

The ”Prokletije- Bjeshkët e Namuna“ Region has no risk of marginalization in the context of regional and EU territory – it is easily gaining recognition as an attractive mountain destination. Yet, none of its parts is prospering in economy with sufficient dynamics, in order to preserve its population or become attractive for launching economic activities which would sustain local communities or bring back population, as well as attract newcomers. With these development constraints additionally boosted by negative trends of globalisation, the rural ”Prokletije- Bjeshkët e Namuna“ Region despite its resources which can complement dynamic offer of goods and services in urbanized coastal and other urban centres, including the Montenegrin capital of Podgorica, might become irrationally marginalised.

The aspects mentioned above, suggest that the development problems of rural „Prokletije- Bjeshkët e Namuna“ Region can be resolved by applying ABDA, which according to the definition, targets “specific geographical areas in a country characterized by a particular complex development problems, through an integrated, inclusive, participatory and flexible approach”1.

Seeking to respect the basic principles of ABDA, during the preparation of this document, the ABDA methodology and related procedures have been applied.

In accordance with the principles of an ABD intervention, several participatory instruments have been established and utilised to support the implementation of the project, as it was done in the previously established cross-border regions of “Drina-Tara”, “Drina-Sava”, “Sharra” and “Prespa”. The key objective of these participatory mechanisms and activities was to create the basis for a multi-stakeholder approach to local development, which is ultimately expected to increase the sustainability of the ABD application in the project region. A secondary objective was to obtain

1 “Vrbensky R. (2008): Can development prevent conflict? Integrated area-based development in the Western Balkans –theory, practice and policy recommendations, Centre for the Study of Global Governance (LSE)

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valuable complementary information for the development of an accurate baseline assessment, both from community surveys and interviews with local experts.

When ABDA was first introduced in the Western Balkan countries, with the facilitation of the project team (composed of the IPTS and the School on Local Development of the University of Trento, as well as of local coordinators) it dealt with the first region established at that time – “Drina-Tara”. The key participatory mechanisms were based on the involvement of:

• a group of selected individuals representing different types of stakeholders in the area (local governments, civil society and business community), hereafter called the stakeholder group (SHG); • a group of academic experts and representatives of national administration, hereafter called the Delphi group; • A group of community representatives, consulted through a questionnaire-based surveys.

During the work which followed, it was realised that the Delphi group is not necessary and it is complicating the process, so it was suggested to modify this part of the participatory work by expanding the group of community representatives, and they will be consulted through explanatory and validation questionnaires.

Stakeholder group (SHG): The main tasks of the SHG was to determine and discuss the baseline development situation, as well as to identify common development needs and priority interventions (along with expected outcomes and corresponding actions) and to support the area-based development approach in the region. SHG was established in the “Prokletije- Bjeshkët e Namuna” Region.

The stakeholders who have joined SHG or were consulted through questionnaire were:

1. Governmental bodies and institutions; 2. Local authorities and its structures including municipal tourist organisations; 3. Regional development agencies; 4. National parks and other nature and culture conservation institutions; 5. Public enterprises; 6. Chambers of commerce and private enterprises unions including tourist cluster etc. 7. Cooperatives and craft guilds (rather than individual farmers and craftsmen); 8. Civil sector including LAGs; 9. Prominent individuals (scientists, professionals of different kinds –environmentalists, cultural workers, local leaders etc.); 10. Project managers of relevant current or past development projects/programmes, especially those involved with CBCs, if appropriate; 11. Political leaders and leaders of various civic movements of importance; 12. Other relevant groups or individuals representing different sectors of relevance (church groups for instance); 13. Academic people dealing with regions in different branches.

Following the methodology applied so far in established ABD CB regions, up to three members from each of the participating municipalities were invited to take part. Private sector and civil society organizations, including top player NGOs have joined too, to keep inclusiveness, but the aim was not to have too many stakeholder group members.

Thematic groups: Beyond plenary meetings of the SHG, thematic working groups were established, in order to follow the identification of concrete local development needs and priorities (and develop action plans), while simultaneously assessing how different areas of development can be coordinated

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and complemented into a common working plan. In other words, stakeholder group members assessed potential development interventions which must be addressed in an inter-related and holistic manner within the target area, as the ABD approach principles dictate.

The thematic working groups were in charge of preparing the following:

• SWOT analyses of the socio-economic sectors related to the common development needs and priorities identified in the target area. This exercise also included issues which are cross- cutting to the different themes/sectors. • Proposals for actions (projects) that would address the critical development needs and priorities. This included a definition of objectives, milestones and resource allocation.

SHG meetings

Meeting Topic Timing March 22nd, 2016, Discussion about the overall process and presenting the draft 1. First Introductory Andrijevica, baseline analysis. Filling gaps. Fine tuning. SWOT analysis. Montenegro Elaborating cross-border development strategy in April 25th, 2016, 2. Second accordance with the principles for ABD: critical needs, priority Peja, Kosovo* interventions at a local level and at higher levels, etc. June 13th-14th, Presentation of the first outline of the Strategic Framework 3. Third 2016, Valbone, and Action Plan and discussions over possible projects. Albania

Presentation of the Final Strategic Framework and the Action October 7th, 2016 4. Fourth Plan. Fine tuning of the document. Budgeting and Plav, Montenegro responsibilities. Writing project summaries.

For the purpose of preparing baseline analysis, two questionnaires were prepared, using a slightly modified model from previous phases of ABD programme implementation:

1. The first survey (hereafter called'Exploratory' ) was used at the beginning to obtain a general understanding of the development situation as perceived by a wider audience than the selected stakeholders. Open questions were prepared in order to assess what were the most pressing development needs as perceived by the average citizen. The results were discussed with SHG members when deciding on key priority areas/themes. Detailed questionnaire was used to lead through data collection (Annex 1). 2. A second questionnaire was introduced in the later stage (hereafter called "Validating") in order to assess whether the proposals made by the SHG were compatible and acceptable to a larger group of multi-sector representatives from the target area (Annex 2).

So a fully participatory process was applied in order to create a joint strategic document of all municipalities from this region. During the process of preparation of this document four meetings with local stakeholders were organized (Andrijevica, Peja/Pec, Valbone, Plav). The meetings were attended by 26 stakeholders (in average on each meeting and 103 in total) from the region, of whom about half (45%) were representatives of local governments and their bodies, while the other half represented the business sector (18%) and civil society (37%). (Annex 3). The integrated approach principle was used to explore the priority economic sectors and interactions between them. Contribution of the local stakeholders was organised through the work in the working

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groups (WG), which were formed respecting the priority development areas – sectors of the region: a WG for Agriculture, Animal Husbandry and Beekeeping, WG for Forestry and Forest Products, WG for Processing of Agricultural and Forest Products and a WG for Tourism and Gastronomy. The WGs dealt with cross-cutting issues such as environment, infrastructure etc. and they were assessed for each of the selected thematic area (i.e. development of the primary, secondary and tertiary sector), as well as interaction between sectors i.e. thematic areas. The assessments were done on two different levels (national, regional and both bilateral and trilateral). Local partners actively contributed to the collection of data for the baseline analysis which was conducted by field and international experts. They were also involved in drafting the final document by taking part in the survey (15 participants from the Albanian part submitted written responses) and by completing tables with statistics on their municipalities presented in the form of Municipal ID cards – Annex 4).

The analytical and strategic planning process was based on a principle of inclusiveness. The process included baseline analysis, SWOT, visioning, definition of development needs and priorities as preparation of action plan and development of project concepts. Analysis has been made on a regional and sectorial basis. Strategy was prepared with a validity of 10 years. Cross-cutting issues were considered for each separate sector instead on treating cross-cutting issues as sectors for themselves.

For instance environment was not assessed as a separate sector, instead it was assessed against every economic sector which is enlisted as a priority; for e.g. agriculture, forestry, processing and tourism were observed through the SWOT analyses of all their segments – natural, cultural and human resources, institutions and support, infrastructure and equipment as well as markets. This approach was taken to make the SWOT analysis more useful in further planning, which is an upgrade of similar processes in other ABD regions where environment, for instance was often considered as a sector by itself although it is naturally related to all economic sectors, as well as to different aspects of socio- economic aspects of the community life on any level.

As usual, the process of collecting data encountered similar problems like in the case of other regions in the Western Balkan countries, causing a need to use descriptive methods, rather than exposing problematic data or writing a zero, while trying to explain important parts of the socio- economic peculiarities. Therefore, given the increased incompatibility of statistical data-bases or even unavailability of some, data were often provided separately as indicators in order to describe differences observed.

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2. BASELINE ANALYSIS OF THE CROSS-BORDER REGION “PROKLETIJE- BJESHKËT E NAMUNA“

2.1 INTRODUCTION The cross-border region of “Prokletije- Bjeshkët e Namuna” has some characteristics that are common to many communes/municipalities regardless of the state they are part of. Generally, in all administrative units of the cross-border region, low density of population with little possibilities of employment and higher unemployment rate among the young people were identified. The communes/ municipalities have high level of emigration and high importance of remittances in local economy. With few exceptions, the main economic branch of the economy is based on small commerce and services units in the urban areas and extensive development of agriculture in the rural areas. Cultivation and or picking of spices, herbs and of non-wood products from the forest, are one of the main income opportunities for the rural population. On both sides of the border (Albania-Kosovo* or Albania-Montenegro) there are commercial opportunities for using these products and collection or processing units for conservation or processing in order to produce final products (e.g. Peja, Junik for blueberries, Shkodra or Malësi e Madhe for herbs and spices). Tourist routes are developed especially in Tropojë and Shkodër Malësi e Madhe during the summer and in some ski centres in Montenegro (Berane) or Kosovo* (Peja, Junik).

The whole region suffers from incomplete infrastructure between the more urbanized parts of the region, e.g. Plav (Montenegro) to Theth or Bajram Curri to Theth or Tropojë (Albania) to Plav etc.

2.2 GEOGRAPHICAL AREA The “Prokletije- Bjeshkët e Namuna” region has as a core centre, the mountainous area of Prokletije/ Bjeshkët e Namuna. This area is also called Albanian Alps or Montenegrin Alps and geologically they belong to the Dinaric Alps - a huge mountain range stretching from the Julian Alps all the way to the areas of northern Albania and Kosovo*, where the mountainous terrain subsides to make way for the waters of Drim and the fields of Kosovo* (Wikipedia).

The region of “Prokletije- Bjeshkët e Namuna” has gathered mountainous communities who have shared and collaborated together in terms of economic development, social cohesion, services, and they partly share the same infrastructure networks. This collaboration is intensified during the last years with an increased circulation among the three concerned countries i.e. Albania, Kosovo*, Montenegro.

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Figure 1: Physical map of “Prokletije - Bjeshkët e Namuna” Region

Source: Prepared by Mr Adi Garuci

The discussion with the stakeholders identified similar development obstacles and possibilities in the cross-border region. The lack of infrastructure especially during the wintertime, the lack of training possibilities for young people, and overexploitation of forests, were among the obstacles most frequently repeated by the majority participants. On the other hand, the mountainous area, the possibilities for winter tourism development, the presence of natural and protected areas, available medicinal herbs and spices and other non-timber forest products were mentioned as resources and potentials for the development of the region.

Following the above given explanation, the new delimitation of the region confirmed by the stakeholders is presented in the figure below.

Figure 2: The final delimitation of the cross-border region “Prokletije - Bjeshkët e Namuna”

Source: Prepared by Mr Fatmir Guri

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As the map above presents, the proposed cross-border region was reduced by including only the territories that share the same problems and have similar opportunities. After the discussion with the stakeholders, both the expert team and the stakeholders, considered that the new proposed delimitation increases the cohesion of the territory in the region. Nevertheless, the proposed delimitation is the best, but still not the optimal, considering that the lower part of Shkodra and Malësi e Madhe municipalities are not concerned with the same level of problems and development possibilities as the northern part of the region. The lack of disaggregated information makes the integration of Shkodra and Malësi e Madhe municipalities compulsory, as a whole.

Consequently, the final list of communes and municipalities which are part of the cross-border region consists of: Shkodra, Malësi e Madhe, Tropojë (Albania); Peja, Deçan, Junik (Kosovo*); Plav, Andrijevica, Berane, Rožaje (Montenegro).

The whole cross-border region has a surface of 6150 km2 and a nearly half a million of inhabitants (436,912). The area and the population is distributed among the three states respectively: Albania – 2,484 km2 and 176,646 inhabitants, Montenegro – 1,918 km2 and 38,865 inhabitants, and Kosovo* 1,748 km2 and 221,401 inhabitants.

Table 1: General figures of the region

Population Share of N° Territory units Area (km2) Population density rural areas 1 Rožaje 432 9,567 22.14 44.4% 2 Berane 717 11,073 15.44 67.5% 3 Plav 468 13,108 28.00 59% 4 Andrijevica 283 5,117 18.08 80 5 Shkodër 872 185,395 155.51 45% 6 Malësi e Madhe 951 40,357 32.69 89% 7 Tropojë 1,057 20,517 19.41 74% 8 Peja 1,365 96,445 127.64 49% 9 Deçan 297 40,019 137.53 89%

The following sections of the document will present in short the characteristics of each commune/ municipality and the baseline for the whole cross-border region.

Detailed explanation of the final delimitation

The centre of the cross-border region is an area with high environmental value which is nature protected in the three countries. “There are more than 144,000 ha of natural areas foreseen to be protected as a Natural Park on the Albanian side (including the Mountainous area of Tropoja and the Albanian Alps). The surface in Kosovo* covers the higher mountainous areas, the canyons of Rugova and other areas of the existing Natural Park Bjeshkët e Namuna (50,000 ha). The area in Montenegro covers the areas already part of the Prokletije National Park from 2009 (16,000 ha)” (the project Balkan Peace park). This territorial unity makes the region easy to be identified. On the other hand, the whole territory has the same climatic conditions, and shares quite the same type of natural resources. They have historic ties of collaboration created before the Second World War, lost during the period 1945-1990 and revitalized during the last 25 years (especially after 1999).

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In 2007/2008, the Governments of Albania, Bosnia-Herzegovina, Croatia, Montenegro and Slovenia signed with the World Wildlife Fund Mediterranean Programme Office (WWF MedPO) a Memorandum of Understanding for the implementation of the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) Programme of Work on Protected Areas. Regional commitment for the implementation of the Programme of Work on Protected Area was loudly announced at the Ninth meeting of the Conference of the Parties to the Convention on Biological Diversity in 2008, with the signing of a Joint Statement on the need to coordinate its implementation by Ministers from the six countries which host most of the Dinaric Arc eco-region. Many national commitments for new protected areas were also made, and the Joint Statement served as a platform for launching new cooperation projects with various donor governments and other partners. The region “Prokletije- Bjeshkët e Namuna” became a part of Dinaric Arc Eco-region.

Figure 3: The proposed preliminary delimitation of the area (local entities in light blue)

Source: A map elaborated by the authors on the basis of the first SWG proposal

Considering that the proposed area is a mountainous one, the strict rule of 50 km or one hour of transportation time must be considered as flexible due to specificities that exists in mountainous areas such as:

• Generally the mountainous areas are more sparsely populated than the other areas. Having constantly (especially during the winter time) the necessity to communicate and be connected with other communities, the collaboration in mountainous areas is built up between communities that are located in larger areas. • High mountainous ranges are located in the middle of “Prokletije- Bjeshkët e Namuna” region,

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which enlarge the area taken into consideration • Even after an intensive work done in infrastructure improvement, during the last years, still the connection between the settlements is difficult. In some cases the lack of infrastructure increases the time needed for travel2.

The delimitation of the area was revised and the region was reduced for several reasons. In this region there are two types of areas:

1. Predominantly rural municipalities in mountainous areas that have many common problems, share the same natural area, with small or very small urban areas, suffering from depopulation, reduction of industries and the manufacturing sector (municipalities of Tropoja, Peja, Deçan, Rožaje, Plav, Andrijevica, Malësi e Madhe), and 2. Municipalities with big urban centres, with dense infrastructure network, constant population growth, dynamic manufacturing and industrial sector, strong touristic sector (municipalities of Ulcinj, Bar, Shkodra Malësia e Madhe and Podgorica).

The two types of municipalities having different socio-economic problems cannot be addressed by the same solutions, therefore, it is questionable whether they should be part of it together. Since the mountainous range i.e. Prokletije- Bjeshkët e Namuna is anyway the main element integrating the proposed region, it is proposed to omit some of the considered municipalities when delimiting the targeted cross-border region. The municipalities of Ulcinj, Bar and the city of Podgorica (Montenegro) should not be part of the cross-border region. Some of the communes should be partially excluded. This option should be considered for at least two municipalities i.e. Shkodra and Malësia e Madhe (Albania). It is evident that within these territories some communes with clear rural characteristics which are attached to mountains, should be included, while urban ones should be omitted.

The following map shows a proposal for inclusion/exclusion of parts/communes from the municipalities of Shkodra, Malësia e Madhe and Tropoja.

Figure 4: The Albanian part of the region related directly to “Prokletije -Bjeshkët e Namuna”

Source: Prepared by the authors

2 There is still no direct connection between Theth and Bajram Curri (the shortest way is to drive using the National highway (nearly 6 hours of travel). Examples like this one are several.

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As it is shown on the map, only few former communes of Shkodra and Malësia e Madhe and nearly the whole territory of Tropoja can be considered as part of the cross-border region “Prokletije - Bjeshkët e Namuna”. However, the crucial problem is to find appropriate data for the community level. Namely, the new territorial organization of Albania introduced in 2014 (Law N° 107/ 2014), makes this division very difficult or even impossible. Therefore, it is proposed to include the municipalities of Shkodra and Malësi e Madhe as a whole. That is the only solution applicable at this stage. Therefore, for the purpose of baseline analysis, data for the whole territories of the municipalities were taken into consideration instead of just rural communities which should belong to the Region.

Concerning Montenegro, the existence of the National Park of Prokletije allows for easier delimitation of the territory that naturally forms part of the cross – border area. The communes of Kosovo* are smaller compared to those of Albania and they are located in the central part of “Prokletije-Bjeshkët e Namuna” region, so whole municipalities will be considered.

From the point of some highly relevant socio-economic characteristics, above presented delimitation is providing high level of compactness within the territory, which is very important for further strategic and action planning. For instance, the main problem of this cross-border region is depopulation. Some of the territories of the area suffer from high level of depopulation and urban or international migration. The remittances are the main sources of income in many municipalities (Tropoja, Deçan, Plav, Malësi e Madhe etc.), and the local economic activities generally serve only as complimentary income sources and not as main sources of household revenues.

However, not all aspects of life can be easily brought closer or equal only by delimiting territory. The following map, presents the population density/km2 for the territories considered initially to be part of the cross-border region. The map on Figure 5 shows clearly the low population density in the majority of local units, with the exception of Podgorica and Shkodra, and municipalities in Kosovo*. Podgorica and Shkodra as extreme parts were easy to omit from the territory, however municipalities of Kosovo*, without lower levels of administrative territorial division remained within the delimited region. It is a fact, that the municipalities of Kosovo* have higher population density compared to the rest of the region. The district of Peja has the highest population density among all districts of Kosovo* (and it’s clearly more rural than other parts of the territory).

Figure 5: The population density in municipalities belonging to the Region and adjacent municipalities

Source: Offices of Statistics of Albania, Kosovo*, and Montenegro

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The majority of the municipalities (Malësi e Madhe, Andrijevica, Tropojë, Berane, Rožaje) have a population density of up to 60 inhabitants/km2, which makes them easy to identify as appropriate for inclusion in the cross-border region “Prokletije- Bjeshkët e Namuna”.

In respect to the perspective of the region, the data on the map of the area show the population trends during the last ten years (the presented period is not the same for all municipalities, due to lack of the same series of data). They confirm that the proposed delimitation conjunct territories which will continue to loose population, as well as territories where the influence of urbanisation of local centres is not visible. The population trend is negative in nearly all the cross-border region with the exception of already excluded City of Podgorica and municipality of Bar from the region, which show clearly a population increase (over 10%). Small increase is recorded in municipalities of Rožaje, Peja and Shkodra whose population increase is quite small (less than 10%) and will not further jeopardise their rural status. The other municipalities in the region show a negative population trend of up to 45% for Berane and Tropojë.

Figure 6: The population trend for the last 10 years◊ for the Region and adjacent municipalities

Source: Offices of Statistics of Albania, Kosovo*, and Montenegro ◊( the data for Montenegro and Kosovo* are for the period 2000-2014, and for Albania 2001-2011)

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3. A QUANTIFIED DESCRIPTION OF THE CURRENT SITUATION

3.1 HUMAN POTENTIAL The data concerning the human capital in the region are difficult to be found. Generally, in all the municipalities/communes there are demographic data available for their municipality/commune. However, there are little data on the human resources such as population education level, number of entrepreneurs existing in the commune or municipality etc.

3.1.1 Demography The demography of the cross-border region of “Prokletije- Bjeshkët e Namuna” is characterised by some main features that are common for nearly all of the communes/municipalities being part of the region:

Low population density of the region. The majority of the communes/ municipalities of the area have a population density lower than 30 inhabitants/ km2. The communes of Peja (120-150 inhabitants/ km2) and the Municipality of Shkodra (91-120 inhabitants/ km2) have much higher population density, mainly due to the higher participation of the densely populated urban areas.

The local stakeholders reported that the population is unevenly distributed even among the rural areas. In many parts of the cross-border region, the rural zones have a much lower level of density compared to the urban areas, but also rural population is unevenly distributed among the lowlands and mountainous areas. The depopulation process is much harsher in the mountainous areas than in the lowland areas. For example, the population density in the mountainous former communes of the municipality of Shkodra is up to 30 times lower compared to other rural areas and more than 60 times lower compared to the urban areas.

Figure 7: Population density in the area of “Prokletije- Bjeshkët e Namuna”

Source: The Offices of Statistics of Albania, Montenegro and Kosovo*

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The low population density in the region is perceived by the local stakeholders to be a negative factor in the area. They consider that the reduced population in the mountainous territory impedes the creation of positive development synergies. The depopulation process that has been happening in the last twenty years reduces constantly the services provided in the area. The number of basic or vocational education facilities, health services, etc. is limited in rural areas.

The low population density in the cross-border region of “Prokletije- Bjeshkët e Namuna” is not just a consequence of the low birth rate but it is mainly caused by the extremely intensive outmigration, which struck the region in the last twenty years. The migration is more evident in some areas compared to other areas of the region. Generally, the urban and sub-urban rural areas have been destination areas for the migration. These are the only areas that during the last twenty years have increased their population. As the Map 6 clearly shows, we may classify the migration process in the region in three categories: the first category are the important migration origin area (Andrijevica, Berane and Tropojë), and this area lost up to 45% of the population in the last 10 years. Due to economic hardships these areas have serious difficulties to retain their population and to launch development projects for the youth.

The second group of communes and municipalities are those who have had a constant population during the last ten years (-10% to 0%) - Malësi e Madhe, Plav, Deçan. This doesn’t mean that the migration in this areas is less important, but rather that these areas have a way of attracting the population to come from the mountainous parts and to settle in the area. An illustrative case of this group is the municipality of Malësia e Madhe, where the outmigration from the rural areas is important, but a share of this population settled in the urban area or the suburban areas of the municipality.

The third group of communes/municipalities which have gained in population during the last 10 years consist of Shkodra, Rožaje and Peja. These municipalities are characterised by important urban areas offering wider possibilities of employment for the population. This classification is very general. The population development is not uniformed within the administrative units, some of the areas experience depopulation and others increase of the population. Generally speaking, migration and remittances coming from migration are important in the whole region.

Traditional folklore costumes from the region

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The population structure within the region is quite similar - the main group of population is active (45% of the whole population). The young population is important in the region (for instance almost 45% of the population of Deçan are younger than 15). The elderly population (older than 65) is evenly distributed among the communes/ municipalities (8-17%) with the exception of Tropojë where the elderly population seems to be numerous (42.8% of the total population) due to an important level of migration in the municipality.

Figure 8: Population structure in the “Prokletije -Bjeshkët e Namuna” cross-border region

Source: Offices of Statistics of Albania, Montenegro and Kosovo*

The main share of the population in the region is living in the rural areas (with the exception of Shkodra and Rožaje).

Figure 9: The share of the rural population in the cross-border region of “Prokletije- Bjeshkët e Namuna”

Source: Offices of Statistics of Albania, Kosovo*, and Montenegro

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The share of the rural area is an important indicator of the rural level of the region. The majority of the communes/municipalities of the region have a rural population ranging from 45% up to 90% for Deçan. This population distribution reinforces the conclusion presented by the stakeholders that the rural development of the region should be one of the main pillars for strategic development of the area.

3.1.2 Education The local stakeholders consider that education is an important issue for the cross-border region. The local stakeholders consider that the education infrastructure in the region is sufficient. The number of school facilities is higher than the needs of the area.

Table 2: Education in the “Prokletije- Bjeshkët e Namuna” cross-border region

Municipality/ Primary school Secondary school Primary Secondary Pupils/ primary Pupils/ Commune pupils pupils schools schools school secondary school Rožaje 5,028 1,106 10 2 5,028 1,106 Berane 4,696 2,418 13 4 4,696 2,418 Plav 1,689 2,418 3 1 1,689 729 Andrijevica 760 159 2 1 760 159 Shkodër 25,175 9,454 25 8 1,007.0 1,181.8 Malësi e Madhe 4,918 1,510 50 6 98.4 251.7 Tropojë 3,110 1,005 51 6 61.0 167.5 Peja 15,000 5,283 29 6 517.2 880.5 Deçan 6,180 2,387 19 3 325.3 795.7

Source: Offices of Statistics of Albania, Kosovo*, and Montenegro

The limited number of pupils in primary or secondary schools, especially in rural areas clearly shows the discrepancies between the school facilities and the actual number of pupils living in the area.

The depopulation of the area and especially of the mountainous areas, has created difficulties for the local authorities to organise the implementation of the educational system. In many villages, the number of pupils is far below the level which is needed for normal operation of the schools. An exception is the municipality of Shkodra, which has quite higher average number of pupils/school.

The average distribution of pupils per teacher in primary schools is quite similar in the area (from 9 pupils per teacher in Tropoja in primary schools, to 17 in Deçan). The number of pupils per teacher is higher in secondary schools, in the whole region (the range is from 15 pupils in Shkoder to 26 to Deçan). For both primary and secondary schools, the share of pupils per teacher is higher compared to the Albanian average, and the figures are much higher compared to OECD countries and to Slovenia, as a comparative country in the region and a member of the European Union (Education Statistics 2011-2012).

The stakeholders consider that the level of the education of teachers, is still low and they should undergo regular trainings in order to update their knowledge.

Vocational education is one of the main problems in the area. In some cases vocational education is missing or is unsuitable. During the last decades, vocational education offered in the region has decreased continuously or is substituted by training offers. The main problem in this case is that not always the training offered is adapted to the job demand in the area. Some of the stakeholders consider that the lack of vocational education in the region increases the difficulties for young people to integrate in the labour market. The stakeholders consider also that the existing offer of vocational

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education is not fully satisfactory and is not in line with the labour market demand in the region. Generally, the vocational trainings are short terms trainings preparing the work force only for low paid jobs and not for high skilled ones.

The vocational education facilities in the region are generally located in the urban centres of the municipalities / communes, which makes it difficult for young people from rural areas to attend them. In many cases, the infrastructural difficulties, the physical distances and the climatic conditions (especially during winter) make it even more difficult regularly to attend classes. Because some villages are located far from the urban centre, it is especially difficult to attend advanced degrees (vocational or not), besides attending lower obligatory education.

There are two universities in the cross-border region (namely the University “Luigj Gurakuqi” in Shkodra, Albania and the University “Haxhi Zeka” in Peja, Kosovo*) which are considered as important vectors of economic and social development of the region. Both universities have a wide range of specialisation fields (economics, administration, agriculture and agri-business, education tourism, law etc.) and they build up on the traditional vocational high schools which exist in the region. In Berane, Montenegro there are 5 faculties, branches of the University of Montenegro, and the educational fields offered at these faculties are medicine, IT, transport and communication and English language. The cooperation between the universities in the region is not very intense. Nevertheless, the stakeholders consider the existence of the university as an added value of the area and a vector for development. The stakeholders consider that the regional universities existing in the area might be important centres of scientific reflection about the sustainable development of the area. 3.1.3 Civil society organizations The civil society in the areas is not evenly developed. There are important cultural, artistic, environmental etc. events organised by the civil society associations that exist in the area (table 3). The diversity of culture, climatic conditions and common environmental issues requires an important group of civil society associations within the region. There is only partial collaboration between civil societies from different sides of the borders, limited to some common cultural activities which do not include the whole region. Civil society organisations are dealing in large extent with environment related issues. Interest in environmental issues is a logical consequence of the rich environment and valuable natural heritage in the region.

3.1.4 Social inclusion The social exclusion in the area has two main dimensions: 1) economic exclusion of some parts of the population; and 2) exclusion from the services. A considerable share of the population is still suffering from poverty or extreme poverty. In the area, a large share of the population receives social welfare payment (up to 40% of the population in the urban areas and more than 60% in the rural areas). These shares of the population face many difficulties in reintegrating themselves in the economic sector of the area. The social welfare system serves only to alleviate poverty on the short term, but not to create new economic perspective for this part of the population in the long term. The economic instruments applied in the area still fail to include this share of the population in the economic activity. In some of the communes/municipalities, the question of the minorities is still important. The stakeholders from public institutions, in some cases presented strategic documents aiming to improve reintegration of these parts of the population, but they still accepted the fact that much more needs to be done.

The stakeholders do not consider the part of the population particularly excluded from the socio- economic activities. Nevertheless, the situation of some population groups like Roma is still difficult.

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The second dimension of exclusion is the lack of services especially during wintertime. Some communes and villages have difficulties to reach health care facilities during winter, and have to travel to be served in the nearest urban area.

Table 3: A non-exhaustive list of artistic and cultural activities in the region (prepared from the information from each municipality)

January The sportsman/ women of the year February Carnival day (Shkodra Zlatna pahulja (Rožaje) March Handcraft Fair (Shkodra) Chess Championship (Shkodra) Tennis table Championship (Shkodra) High school festival “Youth Art” April International literature day (Shkodra) Young interpreter prize “Pjetër Gaci” (Shkodra) May The day of flower (Shkodra) The festival “Sofra Dardane” (Tropojë) Literature meeting “Azem Shreli” (Peja) Folkloristic national Festival “Eshkë e ndezur mbi Shkëlzen” (Deçan) June The national festival of children song (Shkodra) The handcraft Day(Shkodra) The day of the lake Shirokë (Shkodra) Jazz in Albania Concerts (Shkodra) Peja International guitar Festival (Peja) Let’s do it Peja environmental international day(Peja) Literature fair (Peja) July Diaspora day (Deçan) Folklore festival (Andrijevica) Culture days (Berane) Raspberries days (Andrijevica) Slaufijada (Berane) August Blueberry days (Plav) Thunder fest (Berane) Mushroom days (Rožaje) Zlatna lira (Berane) Alipasha springs diaspora (Plav) September Shkodra Song (Shkodra) National children song Festival “Ardhmëria” (Deçan) Honey Days (Berane) Agricultural fair (Petnjcia) October Chestnuts festival (Tropojë) Week of creative youth (Peja) Days dedicated to Jusuf Gërvalla (Peja)

November The marathon of independence Shkodra- Ulcinj (Shkodra) December Traditional Symphonic concert (Shkodra)

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4. NATURAL AND CULTURAL RESOURCES

4.1 NATURAL RESOURCES The region of “Prokletije- Bjeshkët e Namuna” is rich in various natural resources. At least five natural parks: Lake of Shkodra, National park of Valbona and Natural park of Thethin in Albania, Bjeshkët e Namuna in Kosovo*, and Prokletije in Montenegro are located in the region. Also, the new regional park of nature Komovi, in Montenegro, having several natural and unique ecosystems and covering a surface at an altitude of more than 2000 m above the sea level is located in the region.

Table 4: List of the Natural parks in the region and the date of their establishment

Name of the park Area (in km2) Year of establishment Lake of Shkodra (AL) 368 1983 Valbona (AL) 80 1996 Bjeshkët e Namuna (KOS*) 624,88 2002 Prokletije (MNE) 16 2009 Theth (AL) 26,30 1966

Source: Wikipedia Even for a region as the Balkans, known for a very high richness in ecosystems, the cross-border region of “Prokletije - Bjeshkët e Namuna” is particularly rich in biodiversity and geological diversity. The natural values of Prokletije / Bjeshket e Namuna Mountains, include the diversity of alpine and sub-alpine mountain habitats, large forest complexes, alpine meadows and pastures with species rich vegetation. The region is the mainstay for a large number of fauna species, which include endangered species of the common European importance. Forests of Prokletije / Bjeshket e Namuna Mountains are predominantly natural, in some cases primeval. The slopes below the alpine meadows vegetation area are mostly covered with deciduous forests, mainly beech (Fagus sylvatica), sometimes mixed forests with the European silver fir (Abies alba) and Austrian pine (Pinus nigra). In some smaller areas coniferous tree stands of the Norway spruce (Picea abies) and Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris) which are rare for this part of the South Eastern Europe are present, while in higher altitudes the tree stands of the endemic and relic Balkan/ Macedonian pine (Pinus peuce) and endemic Bosnian pine (Pinus heldreichii ssp.leucodermis) can also be found.

To date, 1611 wild plants have been described only in the Albanian part of Prokletije - Bjeshkët e Namuna (Rakaj, 2009). In total, 50 flora species are endemic, sub-endemic and endangered plant species. Because of its altitude and its favoured habitat, the area is one of the centres of arctic-alpine relict flora of the Balkan Peninsula. Out of 77 arctic-alpine species of former glacial flora in the Balkan Peninsula, over 50 species can be found in Prokletije (Stevanovic et al, 2009). According to results of researches on the floral diversity – the mountain range of Prokletije / Bjeshket e Nemuna harbours over 1,500 vascular plant species, including a high number of endemic (255 Balkan endemics and 18 local endemics), relic, rare or endangered (approx. 70) species. Nineteen plant species occurring in Prokletije / Bjeshket e Nemuna Mountains are included in the Red List of Threatened Plants (IUCN, 1997).

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This border region constitutes an important habitat for several threatened fauna species of common European importance which support large undisturbed forest ecosystems, including big carnivorous mammals. The fauna of Prokletije / Bjeshket e Nemuna Mountains includes the brown bear (Ursus arctos), wolf (Canis lupus), lynx (Lynx lynx), European wild- cat (Felis silvestris), Eurasian badger (Meles meles), otter (Lutra lutra) and the Balkan subspecies of chamois (Rupicapra rupicapra balcanica). In 2000 Prokletije / Bjeshket e Nemuna mountains were declared as the bird habitat of international importance due to presence of over 200 bird species, which include the golden eagle (Aquila chrysaetos), imperial eagle (Aquila heliaca), griffon vulture (Gyps fulvus), peregrine falcon (Falco peregrinus), rock partridge (Alectoris graeca), black grouse (Lyrurus tetrix) as well as rare bird species requiring larger natural forest complexes as their habitats, e.g. the western capercaillie (Tetrao urogallus) and hazel grouse (Tetrastes bonasia). All these wildlife species which have their mainstays in habitats crossed by the state borders between Albania, Kosovo* and Montenegro would largely benefit from trans-boundary cooperation on their protection, in the proposed large-scale trans-boundary protected area “Prokletije / Bjeshket e Nemuna Mountains”.

The region has a large list of protected areas and natural protected monuments. The table below, presents a non-exhaustive list of natural monuments in part of the region.

Table 5: List of protected natural monuments in the region List of natural monuments in the municipality of Shkodra, Albania • Burimi i Vrakës • Kërleka e Kakisë • Olistolitet e Kodrës së Tepesë • Shpella e Liqethit Cukal • Mbihipja tektonike e Shirokës • Burimet e Kirit • Fragment i Thyrjes tektonike Shkodër • Habitati i Salamandrës Alpine • – Peja (Karmë) • Shpella e Kataraktit • Blloku Gravitativ e Gurit të Zi • Fusha e Liqethit • Ujëvara e Thethit • Pylli i ishullit të Franc Jozefit • Rasa e Palajve • Lisat e Minaqit (Domne) • Guri i Lekës • Rrepet e Vorrezave të Ramajt • Shpella e Gjeçovit • Rrapi i Hoxhë Dheut • Portat e Shalës • Çinari i Tophanës • Shpella e Thethit • Rrapi i Toplanës • Shpella e Gajtanit • Ahet e Gurrës së Krenave • Pragu i Kapreit • Shpella e Jubanit • Cirku i Gropës së Bukur së Jezercës • Burimet e Shtarzës • Liqeni i Jezercës • Pisha Flamur e qafës së Pejas • Ura shkëmbore e Markzagorës • Burimet e Okolit – Thethit • Shpella e Majës së Arapit • Liqeni i Pejas • Gështanjat e Mgullit (Pult) • Bliret në Lesniqe • Kanioni i urës së Shtrenjtë • Shpella e Zhyles • Shpella e Melagjisë • Shpella e Muriqit • Kanioni i Grunasit

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List of natural monuments in the municipality of Malësi e Madhe, Albania • Syri i Sheganit • Vulfenia e Shtegut të Dhenëve • Fortesa e Kelmendit • Mullaret e Radit (Rapsh) • Burimet e Koprishtit • Arra e Madhe • Syri i Gjonit • Foljeta e Lohjes • Shpella e Krevenicës • Çinari (Foljeta) e Ganjollit • Morenat e Razmës • Shpella e Pucit • Cirku i Livadhit të Bogës • Pusi i Xhek Markut • Burim i Vuklit • Shpella e Njerëzve të Lagur • Blini i Bzhetës • Kanioni i Poicës • Vidhat tek pusi i Markajve • Mullarët e Gurtë të Bajzës • Ahu i Gerçës (Mrizi i Gerçës) • Pusi i Cilikokajve • Carraca e Vrithit • Kalaja e Shtegut të Dhenëve • Tarraca e Greçës • Lugu akullnajor i Runicës • Shpella e Gjolajve • Depozitimet fluvio-glaciale të Bogës • Kanioni i Bashkimit Vermosh • Lugu akullnajor i Seferçës • Mrizi (ahu) i Pleshtit (Bogë) • Gështenja e Reçit

List of natural monuments in the municipality of Tropoja, Albania • Rasa e Pecmarrës • Shpella e Akullit • Shpella e Haxhisë • Lugina e varur akullnajore e Kukajt • Liqenet akullnajore të Doberdolit • Lugina Akullnajore e Motinës • Liqenet akullnajore të Sylbicës • Kanioni i Shoshanit • Shkëmbi i Forcës • Blijtë në Markaj • Burimi Karstik i Qirecit • Dushkajat e Qafë Luzhës • Rasa e Currajt • Liqeni i Ponareve • Depozitimet fluvio-glaciale të Shoshajt • Mështekna e Lugut të Zi • Depozitimet fluvio-glaciale të Shëmtirës • Ahishtja Gurra e Hasan Gashit (Mërtur) • Bredhishtja e Ragamit • Rrobulli në liqenin e Ponarëve • Shelgu i Rrjetëzuar • Arra e Dragobisë • Burimi i Qukut të Dunishës • Shpella e Dragobisë • Burimi i Shoshanit • Hormoqi i Valbonës • Burimet e Valbonës • Ahishtja e Vranicës • Shpella e Haxhisë

List of natural monuments and protected areas in Peja and Deçan, Kosovo* Deçan • Maja e Ropsit • Kozhnjeri • Malet e prelepit • Bliri në Isniq, në Strelcë të Epërme, • Trungjet e blirit në IsniqPishat e Deçanit

Peja • Gubovci • Burimi i Drinit të bardhë • Gryka e Rrugovës • Mani Sham • Maja e Zezë • Bjeshkët e Namuna

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Protected areas in the municipality of Andrijevica, Montenegro: • National Park Biogradska Gora

Protected areas in the municipality of Plav, Montenegro: • National Park Prokletije

Protected areas in the municipality of Berane, Montenegro: • National Park Biogradska Gora

Mineral resources (chrome, quartz, etc.) and important water resources traditionally used for electricity production are located in the region, as well.

The glacial erosion of the Prokletije - Bjeshkët e Namuna Mountains left many glacial landforms behind. Deep river canyons and flat valleys wind around the ridges of the mountains. The largest and most popular canyon is Rugova Canyon. It is situated in Kosovo* and is 25 km away from the border with Montenegro to the city of Peja and is 1,000 m deep. It has very steep vertical mountain slopes on both sides (Wikipedia).

Valleys common for lower altitudes are also found higher in the alpine zone, creating mountain passes and valley troughs. The most famous alpine valley is Buni Jezerca in Albania. Buni Jezerce means "Valley of the Lakes" and it contains six small glacial lakes, the biggest being called the Big lake of Buni Jezerce (Wikipedia).

Many important rivers of the southeaster part of the Western Balkans pass through “Prokletije - Bjeshkët e Namuna” cross-border region. Rivers in this range fall roughly into two main categories, those that flow into Lim and those that flow into White Drin (Drim) and meet Black Drin (Drim), downstream at the Drin (Drim) confluence. The southern and eastern slopes of Prokletije fall into the latter category.

When it comes to water resources, the area is very rich. Rožaje is one of the richest regions of Montenegro with 183 potential sources of drinking water, with a total flow of 675 lit/sec. However, there are problems with protecting its quality.

Tara and Lim rivers, two major sources of the Dinaric river system, originate on the northern borders of Prokletije. Vermosh originates in the northwest mountainous part in Montenegro, close to the border with Albania. As a tributary to Drina it drains into the Danube and then into the Black Sea. Lim flows through the Plav Lake. Ibar, which originates on the slopes of Hajla, takes a similar route into the Danube via West Morava in Serbia.

The region of “Prokletije- Bjeshkët e Namuna” is part of a cross-border project that promotes natural landscapes of the region and the hospitality of the population. The Balkan Peace Park is a project financed by the German International Cooperation Organisation (GIZ, former GTZ), implemented in the area covered by the cross-border region “Prokletije - Bjeshkët e Namuna” trying to offer a standardised touristic product linking together the communes in Kosovo*, Montenegro and Albania.

Natural resources and their exploitation

The lake of Shkodra is shared by two countries (Albania and Montenegro) and it is a unique ecosystem with endemic species of fish, birds and other animals. Despite a privileged status of protection, the situation has not been favourable in the last twenty years. The stakeholders consider that efforts were not done for better protection of the lake ecosystem (overfishing, solid waste, etc.).

29 BASELINE STUDY AND STRATEGIC PLAN FOR DEVELOPMENT OF THE CROSS-BORDER REGION “PROKLETIJE- BJESHKËT E NAMUNA”

The area is well known for its wild flora (herbs and spices) based on which an economic sector has been developed, offering employment opportunities, as well as possibilities for increasing income to families living in the area. In the municipality of Shkodra there are some collection centres for non- processed herbs and spices, as well as post-harvest processing operators, dealing with packing and extracting essential oils (sage). Local actors make efforts to increase the value of local herbs and spices and add value by labelling the products not only with generic names but, also as products from the area.

During the last 5 years, important efforts were made to include the natural resources of the region in the tourist routes for local and international visitors. The renovation of hostels located in the well- known tourist area (Theth, Bogë, Razm, Valbonë etc.) has not only increased the income of the local population, but also promoted another type of touristic offer compared to the mass tourism typical for Albanian coastal areas. Similar trend is being perceived in Plav and Andrijevica after the national park Prokletije has been declared. Recently, tourist routes connected the area of Tropoja (Valbona Valley) with Theth in a three/four days trip by foot. One of the main concerns expressed by the stakeholders is the lack of appropriate infrastructure offering local food and hospitality.

The whole mountain part of the region is rich in non-timber forest products, especially blueberry and mushrooms, which are harvested by local population and sold as raw product to companies from the region or from EU countries.

Besides for herbs and spices, the rural areas of the Malësia e Madhe and Tropoja are known for the chestnuts forests (Reç area, the chestnuts forests in Tropoja are some of the most important in the area), producing important quantities of chestnuts mainly for export. With more than 2400ha of chestnuts forest, the chestnuts should be one of the main typical products of the area, and have to be labelled as product with Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) according to some detailed studies done in the area. The area is known also for local fruit varieties, such as the Plum of Tropoja, a variety of apple “gjyle”, as well as for the local sheep breed “bardhoke” etc.

Forests have been traditionally overexploited during the last twenty years, increasing the damage to important forests in the rural areas. In the mountain areas the overexploitation of the forests and the intentional fires during summer have significantly threatened the sustainability of these areas (high level of land erosion, avalanches during wintertime, etc.). Uncontrolled exploitation of forests is a significant problem, along with the usage of solid fuel for heating which along with exhaust fumes from vehicles results in questionable air quality.

Gravel from rivers is also exploited in an uncontrolled manner, which resulted in damaged river basins which consequently caused serious problems in terms of flooding in high water season.

Local strategies on preservation of natural resources exist in the region, however stakeholders are not always aware of their existence. Half of the respondents to the questionnaire used to collect data in the region stated that there is a local strategy on preservation of natural resources – a local action plan on preservation of biodiversity, while half of them did not know about such a document. Most of the respondents claim that funding for implementation of this strategy mostly comes from international donors, followed by state funds, and local government is dedicating the least of resources for such measures. Half of the respondents knew that there is a cross-border agreement on preservation of Drina River and that 26 municipalities from Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia and Montenegro have signed it. Many of the stakeholders in Albania cited the previous collaboration with Montenegro concerning the Lake of Shkodra, or the Balkan Peace Park project, as being important for the collaboration and improving the connection between the communities.

30 BASELINE STUDY AND STRATEGIC PLAN FOR DEVELOPMENT OF THE CROSS-BORDER REGION “PROKLETIJE- BJESHKËT E NAMUNA”

One main problem occurring in the lowlands in the municipality of Shkodra are the floods. The area suffers regular floods if the rainfall is heavier than usual. Even after important investments in flood protection infrastructure done during the last 20 years, the situation is still critical.

The area is known for its natural resources and beautiful landscapes. The territory is characterised by contrasting landscapes (peaks, valleys, torrential rivers, glacier lakes etc.). In the mountain area several tourist destinations are located i.e. the village Valbona and the village of Curraj I Epërm in the area of Nikaj Merturit, Grebaja valley in Plav, Stavna katun on Komovi Mountain etc. The valley of Valbona (national park) is located in the Tropoja District and this is a well-known tourist destination. The uncontaminated nature landscapes of Tropoja present new and appreciated tourist destination that has been developing during the last years. On the rivers there are fly-fishing zones, and such a zone exist in Plav and it is already attracting a lot of foreign tourists.

The area has important mineral resources (chrome, quartz etc.) that are partly exploited and according to the stakeholders they may be important economic resources for the future. The hydropower is one of the important resources of the area. The hydropower plant of Fierza is one of the most important hydro power plants in Albania. With an artificial lake of nearly 3 billion cubic meters of water, this hydro power plant is of strategic importance for the Albanian economy. The municipality of Andrijevica is making efforts to assure that investors invest in hydropower plants, and several of such small plants are already built on mountain streams, while others are being built.

One main economic activity based on the natural resources is winter tourism. Cmiljevica is where the ski centre Lokve is located, constructed in socialist times and privatized unsuccessfully, so its utilization in the past decade has not been successful. Some of the facilities are still functional such as the two ski lifts, and a hotel which is still in good shape. The stakeholders in Deçan, have an opinion that the mountainous areas have high potential for developing winter tourism (with ski resorts). The stakeholders in the municipality of Peja, consider natural resources as a main resource for economic development. The local public stakeholders presented a project for a cable car that will link the city of Peja with the future ski resorts on the altitude of 2400 m. The main project foresees to use the city of Peja as the host city and to build only the cable car and the ski tracks. The restaurants and the hotels for the guests will be in the urban area of Peja. Nevertheless, the stakeholders believe that investments should be carefully considered, having in mind the long-term climate change and its impact on winter temperatures and snow fall during winter.

4.2 ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION According to the survey conducted among stakeholders, positive aspect from an environmental point of view is the fact that there is very little industrial and agricultural pollution. Medium threats for nature are waste water management, uncontrolled urbanisation and climate change. But a more serious threat is considered to be solid waste disposal and its impact on biodiversity, both flora and fauna, as well as uncontrolled exploitation of forests which was particularly emphasized.

More than half of the respondents claim that they have participated in measures for environment protection and most of them expect more funds for this purpose in future. When discussing key issues related to natural resources, most stakeholders agree that the legal framework is strong and good, but they also agree that its implementation is a huge problem, and control mechanisms are very weak.

Almost all stakeholders agree that the local economy is fully dependant on natural resources, as key economic sectors are wood industry, agriculture, green energy, tourism. The low awareness of the local population on the importance of conservation of natural resources is another highly problematic issue, followed by lack of reliable data and statistics. According to the respondents, less severe,

31 BASELINE STUDY AND STRATEGIC PLAN FOR DEVELOPMENT OF THE CROSS-BORDER REGION “PROKLETIJE- BJESHKËT E NAMUNA”

but still problematic is the lack of initiative for cooperation between the local authorities and also for cross-border cooperation on nature protection issues.

4.3 HISTORICAL AND CULTURAL HERITAGE The region has rich and diverse cultural heritage. It is multicultural region with population of different ethnic and religious background, with specific customs and traditions. Churches, monasteries and mosques represent valuable cultural heritage relevant for the development of cultural tourism. Local cuisine, production of traditional food and beverages, collection of non-timber forest products are also relevant resources for the local development but there is neither a strategic approach towards the development of this sector nor public awareness on its importance for the local development.

The Monastery of the Patriarchate of Peja (or simply Patriarchate of Peć) is a medieval Serbian Orthodox monastery located near the city of Peja. The church complex is unique and consist of three churches connected as one whole, with a total of four churches built in the 13th and 14th centuries. It is situated by the Peć Bistrica, at the entrance of the Rugova Canyon. It is part of the "Medieval Monuments in Kosovo*", a combined World Heritage Site along with three other Orthodox monuments. The four edifices of the site reflect the high points of the Byzantine-Romanesque ecclesiastical culture, with its distinct style of wall painting, which developed in the Balkans between the 13th and 17th centuries. From its origin in the 13th century, the Patriarchate attracted learned divines, reputed writers and gifted artists, and all of them have left traces of their work in it. It is therefore not only an orthodox centre, but also an important repository of cultural heritage (Wikipedia).

Another one of the most valuable features of the regional cultural heritage is located in vicinity of Peja in the municipality of Deçan. It is the Orthodox monastery Decani which is also under UNESCO protection. It was built between 1327 and 1335 by the Serbian medieval king St. Stephen of Decani and was dedicated to the Ascension of the Lord. The monastery is settled in the picturesque valley of the Bistrica River surrounded by the mountains and forests of the Prokletije - Bjeshkët e Namuna mountain range. During its turbulent history the monastery was an important spiritual centre with developed artistic and intellectual activities. Although the monastery buildings suffered damage from the Turkish occupation, the church has been completely preserved with beautiful 14th century fresco paintings. Today a young brotherhood of 30 brethren lives in the monastery continuing the centuries old tradition of the past. The brotherhood has developed various activities: wood carving, icon painting, book publishing and is also active in missionary work. The stakeholders consider the monastery to be an important attraction which can contribute to further diversification of the tourist offer of the region as a whole.

Table 6: List of cultural monuments in “Prokletije-Bjeshkët e Namuna” Region Shkodra Malësia e Madhe (the traditional houses are not listed) Kalaja e Shkodrës në qytetin e Shkodrës. 1948 Kalaja e Shapës në fshatin Nenshat. 1963 Kalaja në fshatin Marshej. 1948. Kalaja në fshatin Beltojë. 1973 Kalaja në fshatin Drisht. 1948 Kalaja e Balleçit në fshatin Reç. 1977 Kalaja në fshatin Vig. 1948 Qyteza e Bakajve në fshatin Breg Lum Kalaja në fshatin Vau i Dejës.1948 Qyteza e Ganjollës në fshatin Ganjollë. 1973 Kalaja e Gajtanit dhe gërmadhat e quajtura qytet Banesa antike me mozaik në bregun e djathtë të mbi kurrizin e malit që shtrihet në perëndim. lumit Drin, afër urës së Baçallëkut. 1948 Ura e Mesit mbi Përroin e Kirit në fshatin Mes. Kalaja e Shurdhahut në fshatin Vjedhë. 1948 1948

32 BASELINE STUDY AND STRATEGIC PLAN FOR DEVELOPMENT OF THE CROSS-BORDER REGION “PROKLETIJE- BJESHKËT E NAMUNA”

Ura mbi përroin e Thatë në fshatin Marshej. 1963 1984 Ura e Tamarës mbi lumin Cem i Vuklit dhe bani Rrënojat e Kishës së Shirgjit pranë fshatit Shirgj. pranë saj në fshatin Tamarë - Kelment. 1984 1970 Ura e Mavredës në fshatin Vukpalaj. 1984 Banesa ish kulla e Gjon Marka Gjonit Ura me kalldrëm nga Gruemira në Repisht. 1977 Kulla e Lulash Keçit Hamami në qytetin e Shkodrës. 1973 .Kulla e Nik Ndout Xhamia e Plumbit në qytetin e Shkodrës. 1948 Banesa e Ndue Mark Kolës Kisha Trikonëshe në Kalanë e Drishtit. 1984 Banesa e Shkurte Alia Rrënojat e Kishës së Shën Gjinit pranë fshatit Çinari i Hoxhë shkodrës Linaj. 1948 Rrënojat e qendrës mesjetare të punimit të Rrënojat e Kishës së Shën Markut në Kalanë e armëve në fshatin Hajmel. Vaut të Dejës. 1984 Rrënojat Rrënojat e Kishës së Shatit në fshatin Mazrek.

Tropojë Kalaja në fshatin Shishan. 1973 Kështjella e Breg - Lumit. 1984 Kalaja e Lekës në Selimaj. 1973 Qyteza e Rosunjës në fshatin Bujan. 1973 Kalaja e Bushatit në fshatin Bushat. 1977 Kisha e Ancitit në fshatin Breg- Lum.1984 Kalaja e Sakatit. 1984 Shpella e Dragobisë. 1977 Kalaja e Cernicës. 1984 Mulliri i Bajram Currit

Pejë Deçan, Junik Istok Fortifikim parahistorik Parahistori Baballoq Kisha e Shën Gjonit Mesjetë Cërkolez Istog Deçan Lokaliteti i periudhës romake në Cërkolez Lokaliteti arkeologjik parahistorik Parahistori Romake Cërkolez Istog Baballoq Deçan Laterculi Periudha e vonë romake Cërrcë Istog Xhamia e fshatit Baballoq 1868 Manastiri i Deçanit Mesjetë Deçan Varëse qelibari 850-600 p.Kr. Banja e Pejës Pejë Kulla e Zymer Himës Shek. XVIII Deçan Banja e Pejës (Ilixha) Shek. XX Banjë e Pejës Mulliri i Shabanajve Shek. XIX Deçan Istog Xhamia e Deçanit Shek. XIX Deçan Gërmadhat e Kishës me varret e vjetra në Belicë Kulla e Demëukëve Shek. XIX Deçan Mesjetë Belicë Istog Mulliri i Gjikokajve Shek. XVIII Deçan Murgorja e Zojës së Bekuar në Belle Mesjetë Lokaliteti arkeologjik në Doberdol Parahistori, Belle Deçan MesjetëDoberdol Pejë Kalaja antike në Belle Antikiteti i Vonë Belle Tuma’ Mesjetë Doberdol Pejë Deçan Varrezë mesjetare Mesjetë Dobovë Pejë Valavicë – Mulli Shek. XIX Bellobrad Sharr Xhamia në fshatin Dranoc Shek. XX D r a n o c Dragash Deçan Kisha e Zojës së Bekuar Mesjetë Bellopojë Pejë Kompleksi i Kullave në lagjën Mazrrekaj Shek. Xhamia e Kukli Beut, Bresanë Shek. XVI Bresanë XIX Dranoc Deçan Dragashë Xhamia e fshatit Drelaj Shek. XVII – 1679 Drelaj Mulliri i Halil Mehmet Bricorit Shek. XIX Bricor Pejë Pej Kulla e Jusuf dhe Bardhosh Gërvallës Shek. XX Kulla e Ali Ozmanit Shek. XIX Broliq Pejë Dubovik Decan Varret e vjetra në Majen e Buçanit Mesjetë Buçan Kulla e Donika Jusuf Gërvalla Shek. XX Dubovik Pejë Deçan Mulliri i Mazo Hajdarpashiq Shek. XX Carrallukë Kompleksi i Dëshmorve Shek. XX Gllogjan Istog Deçan Lokaliteti i periudhës romake në Cërcë Romake Lokaliteti arkeologjik romak – Stanica Cërcë Istog Kisha e Shën Ndout Bazilik 1917 Glloxhan Pejë

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Kishë varrezore e Shën Jeremisë Mesjetë Vonë Jabllanicë Pejë Gorazhdec Pejë Kulla e Sadik Shehut Shek. XIX Junik Kulla e Bashor Pren Gegaj Shek. XVIII Gurakoc Kulla e Brahim Hoxhës Shek. XVIIIJunik Istog Kulla e Jah Ymerit Shek. XIX Junik Kulla e Rexhë Fetahut Shek. XIX Gurakoc Istog Kulla e Tafë Hoxhës Shek. XIX Junik Lokaliteti arkeologjik i periudhës romake në Kulla e Ram Zyber Krasniqit Shek. XIX Junik Irzniq Romake Irzniq Deçan Teqja e madhe amë e Tarikatit Alije - Halvetije në Tuma e vetmuar në Irzniq Parahistori Irzniq Junik Shek. XXJunik Deçan Tyrbja e “Dadës Hatë” Shek. XIX Junik Kulla e Mehmet Dervish Çekaj Shek. XIX Irzniq Trashëgimia Deçan Xhamia e Lagjës Qokë 1580 Junik Kulla e Zymer Fetës Shek. XIX Irzniq Deçan Kulla e Rrustë Zeqirit Shek. XIX Junik Mulliri i Sadik Berishës Shek. XIX Irzniq Deçan Tyrbja e Sheh Osmanit Shek. XIX Junik Kulla e Haxhi Osë Miftarit Shek. XIX I s n i q Kulla e Osmon Llullunit Shek. XIX Junik Deçan Objekti i shkollës fillore “Edmon Hoxha” Shek. Kulla e Ramiz Kuklecit Shek. XIX Isniq XX Junik Deçan Xheravica Junik Kulla e Kuklecve Shek. XVIII Isniq Deçan Liqejt e Xheravicës Junik Xhamia e fshatit Isniq Shek. XVII Isniq Deça Kroni i priftit Junik Kulla e Musë Mehmetit Shek. XIX Isniq Deçan Kroni i Hoxhajve Junik Kulla Smajl Nimon Balaj Shek. XIX Isniq Moronica (park me Pisha) Junik Deçan Kulla e Kukajve Shek. XIX Junik Kulla e Regjë Iber Balaj Shek. XIX Isniq Kulla e Sadik Rrucës Shek. XIX Junik Deçan Kulla e Nur Shalës Shek. XIX Junik Kulla e Zenun Ahmetit Shek. XIX Isniq Mulliri i Sallajve Shek. XIX Junik Deçan Tyrbja e Derevish Hajdarit Shek. XX Junik Kulla e Sali Gecës 1800 Isniq Deçan Tyrbja e Shalajve (Dervish Sadikut Shek. XX Kulla e Mujë Mehmetit Shek. XIX Isniq Junik Deçan Kulla e halit Hoxhës Shek. XIX Junik Mulliri i Tahirsadrive (Rrustem Dervishaj) Shek. Lokaliteti i periudhës romake në Kaliqan Romake XIX Kaliqan Istog Kalaja e fshatit Belle Mesjetë Isniq Deçan Kulla e Lash Ukaj Shek. XIX Kaliqan Istog Kulla e Sadik Ibishit Shek. XIX Isniq Deçan Xhamia në fshatin Kaliçan Shek. XIX Kaliçan Istog Manastiri i Gorioçit Mesjetë Istog Kulla e Shaban Turkaj Shek. XIX Kashicë Istog Tuma Ilire (Në oborrin e Kishës së Shën Pjetrit Tyrbja e Sadri Pepaj Shek. XIX Kodrali Deçan dhe Shën Palit) Parahistori Istog Mullir i Cal Malushit Shek. XVIII Kotradiq Pejë Kulla e Sali Bajram Dreshaj Shek. XIX Istog Gërmadhat e kullave (Idvorc) Mesjetë Levoshe Kulla e Hasan Rexhë Salihaj Shek. XIX Istog Pejë Xhamija e vjeter e Istogut 1730 Istog Gërmadhat e kishës së Shën Dhimitrit Mesjetë Kulla e Haxhi Buleshkaj Shek. XVIII Istogu i ultë Levoshë Pejë Istog Gërmadhat e kishes varrezore të Shën Gjergjit Kulla e Ukë Januz Sylajve (Xhafer Sylës) Shek. Mesjetë Levoshë Pejë XX Istogu i ultë Istog Gërmadhat e mureve mesjetare në Duarinje Kulla e Halil Dervish Sylaj Shek. XIX Istogu i ultë Mesjetë Levoshë Pejë Istog Varret e vjetra mbi livadhet e Savës Mesjetë Gjurmët e kishës paleokristiane në Izbicë Levoshë Pejë Izbicë Skenderaj Gërmadhat e mureve të Shën Markut Mesjetë Xhamia e Jabllanicës Madhe Shek. XV – 1490 Levoshë Pejë Jabllanica e Madhe Pejë Gërmadhat e kishës së Shën Nikolles Mesjetë Kulla e Ymer Vesel Regjaj Shek. XVIII Jabllanica Levoshë Pejë E Vogël Pejë Kalaja e fshatit Lipë Antikitet i Vonë, Mesjetë Lipë Fortifikim i antikitetit të vonë ‘Gradina’ Antikitet i Pejë

34 BASELINE STUDY AND STRATEGIC PLAN FOR DEVELOPMENT OF THE CROSS-BORDER REGION “PROKLETIJE- BJESHKËT E NAMUNA”

Kisha e Shën Katarinës Shek. XX Lipë Pejë Shtëpia e Heroit të Popullit Milladin Popovic Kulla e Ramë Stojkaj Shek. XIX Lloqan Deçan Shek. XX Pejë Mejtepi në fshatin Lluka e Epërme Shek. XIX Konaku i Jashar Pashes Shek. XIX Pejë Lluka e Epërme Deçan Shtëpi banimi Pilingjurka Shek. XIX Pejë Kulla e Ali Gecit Shek. XVIII Lluka e Ultë Shtëpi banimi (Ehat Musës) Shek. XVIII Deçan Pejë Kulla e Qerim Rugovës Shek. XIX Llukavci i Kulla e Zenel Beut Shek. XIX Pejë Begut Istog Kulla e Sheremetit Shek. XIX Pejë Kulla e Florim Januz Gecaj Shek. XIX Llukë e ulët Kulla e Jashar Pashës Shek. XVIII – XIX Pejë Deçan Kulla e Sahatit Shek. XVIII – XIX Pejë Kulla e Sali Shalës Shek. XIX Loxhë Pejë Konaku i Haki Spahiut Shek. XIX Pejë Kulla e Avdurrahman Ramë Kajtazit Shek. XIX Konaku i Kasapollëve Shek. XIX Pejë Tumat Ilire në Lubozhdë (Nëngurë) Parahistori Kulla e Ministerit Shek. XVIII – XIX Pejë Lubozhdë Istog Kulla e Shaban Goskës Shek. XVIII – XIX Pejë Vendbanim Parahistorik ne Lubozhdë Parahistori Shtëpia e Adem Muhaxherit Shek. XX Pejë Lubozhdë Istog Shtëpia e Enver Hadrit Shek. XX Pejë Maje Heshte shek. VI-V p.Kr. Lubozhdë Istog Taftali Xhamia Shek.XVIII Pejë Maje Heshte shek. VI-V p.Kr. Lubozhdë Istog Xhamia e Kuqe (Pejë) Shek. XVIII Pejë Kulla e Miftar Alisë Shek. XIX Lumbardh Deçan Xhamia e Kullës së Sahatit Shek. XVIII Pejë Kulla e Bajram Xhafer Lekaj Shek. XIX Lumbardh Xhamia e Xhylfahatunit Shek. XVI Pejë Deçan Konaku i Mahmut Begollve Shek. XI Pejë Kulla e Zeqir Hakaj Shek. XIX Orroberdë Istog Xhamia e Kushumliut Shek. XVI – 1577 Pejë Shpella e Murgjëve në Gryken e Rugovës Xhamia e Mesxhitit Shek. XIX – 1839 Pejë Mesjetë Xhamia e Pehlivanit Shek. XVIII – 1793 Pejë Gërmadhat e Hamamit të Vjetër në Pejë Mesjetë Teqeja e Gacaferve Shek. XVIII Pejë Pejë Kulla e Qemajl Nushit Shek.XVIII Pejë Konaku i Tahir Begut Viti 1800 Pejë Shtëpia e Qehajve Shek.XIX Pejë Patrikana e Pejës Mesjetë Pejë Shtëpia e Agustin Lorencit Shek.XIX Pejë Shtëpia e Heroit të Popullit Bora Vukmiroviq Shtëpia e Karaman Locit Shek.XVIII Pejë Shek. XX Pejë Ura e Gurit ( ura N’gur)Shek. XVI Pejë Shtëpia e Heroit të Popullit Ramiz Sadiku Shek. Ura në grykën e Rugovës Shek. XVI – XX Pejë XX Pejë Kroni te Shadërvani Shek. XV - XVII Pejë Shtëpia e Heroit të Popullit Milladin Popovic Kroni i Abërit Shek. XIX Pejë Shek. XX Pejë Kroni i Bajrakli Xhamisë Shek. XV Pejë Konaku i Jashar Pashes Shek. XIX Pejë Kroni i Bajram Bogut Shek. XVI Pejë Shtëpi banimi Pilingjurka Shek. XIX Pejë Kroni te shtëpia e kulturës “Kajnaku” Shek. XV Shtëpi banimi (Ehat Musës) Shek. XVIII Pejë Qendra Zejtare Shek. XX Pejë Kulla e Zenel Beut Shek. XIX Pejë Kino Teatri “Jusuf Gërvalla” 1960 Pejë Kulla e Sheremetit Shek. XIX Pejë Stacioni i Trenit Pejë 1933 – 34 Pejë Shpella e Murgjëve në Gryken e Rugovës Shtëpia e Osman Deçanit Shek. XVIII Pejë Mesjetë Pejë Shtëpia e Kahreman Locit Shek. XIX Pejë Gërmadhat e Hamamit të Vjetër në Pejë Mesjetë Tyrbja e Sari Salltëkut Shek. XV – XX Pejë Pejë Mulliri i Beqir Halil Haxhosaj Shek. XIX Prokolluk Deçan Lokaliteti arkeologjik ‘Qyteza’ Parahistori, Antikë, Fortifikim i Antikitetit të Vonë ‘Gjyteti’ Antikitet i Mesjetë Pejë Vonë Radac Pejë Konaku i Tahir Begut Viti 1800 Pejë Ujëvara e Radacit Radavc Pejë Patrikana e Pejës Mesjetë Pejë Kulla e Gjyle Kadrijaj Shek. XIX Rastavic Deçan Shtëpia e Heroit të Popullit Bora Vukmiroviq Lokaliteti arkeologjik në Rastavicë Romake- Shek. XX Pejë Antikë e Vonë Shtëpia e Heroit të Popullit Ramiz Sadiku Shek. Lokaliteti arkeologjik romakRomake, Antikitet i XX Pejë Vonë Rastavicë Deçan

35 BASELINE STUDY AND STRATEGIC PLAN FOR DEVELOPMENT OF THE CROSS-BORDER REGION “PROKLETIJE- BJESHKËT E NAMUNA”

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Berane Tumuli u Lugama i Lušcu Polimski muzej Arheološki lokalitet Beran Krš Rimski kastrum u selu Dolac u Beranama Manastir Šudikova u Budimlji Arheološki lokalitet Kremenštica u Ostaci crkve na groblju u Petnjiku Budimlji Manastir Đurđevi stupovi

Rozaje Ganica Kula Hadžialijagića Džamija Sultan Rozajske kuce: Murata II Zejnelagića, Fetahovića, Kučanska džamija Feleća, Sutovića, Pepića, Biševska džamija Bećiragića Kula

Plav Crkva Sv. Trojice kod Čekić džamija u Gusinju Brzojevice Džamija u Gornjem Vusanju Crkva Sv. mučenika Kirila i Džombalića džamija u Julite u selu Velika Donjem Vusanju Crkva Sv. Antuna u Gusinju Nova džamija u Gusinju Šabovića džamija Kula Redžepagića u Plavu Nova Sultanija džamija u Careva džamija u PlavuVezirova džamija u Plavu Gusinju Džamija u Martinovićima Crkva Sv.Đorđa u Gusinju

The area has a rich folkloristic and ethnographic heritage. Traditional costumes are particularly rich in colours and designs. The municipalities still try to maintain traditional dances and songs by organising annual events gathering folkloristic groups.

In terms of cultural resources, stakeholders claim that most relevant cultural resources for local development are the local food and beverages, followed by the monuments and sites of cultural and historical significance. Less relevant are considered to be the theatrical and music events. What is obvious from their responses is the fact that there is no clear vision or strategy on how to utilize the cultural resources for local development. Funding for cultural events is insufficient, and comes predominantly from local budgets. There are recurring cultural events in Andrijevica, such as Raspberry Days and Folklore Festival in Kralje, Traditional Songs Festival in Tropoja, Peja and Shkodra, Blueberry Days in Plav, but they do not have cross-border character, even though some of them do have participants that come from neighbouring countries.

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5. ECONOMIC ACTIVITIES AND OPPORTUNITIES

The region of “Prokletije- Bjeshkët e Namuna” can be considered to be mainly a rural area with a lower industrial activity compared to the agricultural one. An important part of the population lives in the rural areas of the region, and the economic development also in the urban areas is mainly based on services, and agro-food processing, which supports the above given definition. Unemployment is a constant characteristic for the whole region, due to a group of factors (limited work offer, limited trained work force, high share of young population, low economic dynamics in the region etc.). In all three countries, unemployment is considered to be the main problem of the whole region.

With few exceptions, the main economic sectors are agriculture and services in the urban areas. The tourism sector provided important development opportunities during the last years especially in the areas like Tropoja municipality, Plav, Andrijevica and Rugova valley in Peja.

The agricultural sector is generally an extensive one, especially in the mountainous areas of the region, and there are strategies to intensify it in the lowland areas with production of decorative plants, spices and herbs, agricultural products and mainly cereals.

Tourism is the main developing sector in the area. With a new and/or updated tourist offer, tourism plays an important role in rural communities’ collaboration, contributes to change the mentality, and to increase in the income of the hostel /hotel owners and farming households which offer part of the fresh products to the tourism operators (hotels and restaurants).

The following section presents a short description of the economic activities and development opportunities for the region.

5.1 INFRASTRUCTURE AND TRANSPORTATION The infrastructure in the area, especially in the Albanian municipalities, has improved considerably during the last 5 years. The improved road infrastructure increased the connectivity of the urban areas with the main economic centres of the country. Also, the connectivity between the villages has been greatly improved.

The map below shows clearly the road infrastructure in the “Prokletije- Bjeshkët e Namuna” cross- border region. The two indicators presented in the map are: i) road density in the region (expressed by the ratio of road km/surface unit (square km) and ii) road infrastructure (paved vs. unpaved roads). The map shows that the majority of communes/ municipalities in the area have a road density that is lower compared to the national average. With the exception of Shkodra and Berane, the other communes/ municipalities show a comparable level of road density or even lower than the national average.

The road infrastructure in the region is also of a lower quality compared to the national average. So generally the share of paved roads is lower than the national average only with few exceptions (Tropoja, Deçan and Peja).

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Figure 10: Road infrastructure in “Prokletije- Bjeshkët e Namuna” cross-border area (the road density by square km) and the structure of road infrastructure - paved and unpaved - dirt roads)

Share of Share of Commune/ Municipality Road/km2 paved roads unpaved roads Rožaje 0.56 0.6 0.4 Berane 1.30 0.26 0.74 Plav 0.57 0.28 0.72 Andrijevica 2.36 0.13 0.87 Shkodër 1.1 0.5 0.5 Malësi e Madhe 0.56 0.32 0.68 Tropojë 0.5 0.7 0.3 Peja 0.36 0.74 0.26 Deçan 0.74 0.74 0.26

Source: Calculated upon the information of the Statistics Offices of Albania, Montenegro, Kosovo*

The quality of the road infrastructure has improved as well, as the map shows it, the share of the paved roads has increased considerably, and recently the roads are partially or completely renovated. The situation has greatly improved in the municipality of Tropoja, Albania where the streets leading to the centre of the municipality from the centres of the former communes, are all paved.

The quality of roads is particularly problematic in the mountainous areas especially in the municipality of Malësi e Madhe. For the municipalities of Shkodra and Malësia e Madhe, the stakeholders consider

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that crucial for cross-border collaboration is to construct the infrastructure in the border crossing point called Bashkimi (the three-lateral border point with Kosovo*, Albania and Montenegro). On the other hand, the road linking Plav, Montenegro with the Albanian villages and the urban centre of Koplik which is not renovated makes it even more difficult to connect the settlements on the two sides of the border. This is the case with the road connecting Plav and Peja, through Cakor border crossing, which in the past was intensively used, but currently it is not opened, despite the negotiations between the two states. Still on Montenegrin side, the road was asphalted two years ago.

The recent investments in mobile telephone system and internet broadband have been jointly done in the Albanian and Montenegrin communes/municipalities as part of a CBC project. The recent investments have improved the connectivity of part of the communes/ municipalities in the region.

The connectivity is a constant problem of the mountain communes during the wintertime. The stakeholders underlined that during winter it is easier for the inhabitants of the northern communes in Albania to reach the communes of Plav, Montenegro and Kosovo*, than the centres of the region in Albania - Shkodra and Kukës.

The stakeholders also underlined the problems of water supply in some of the villages of the region. The lack of water supply in the region is identified as the main problem for tourism development.

The majority of the dwellings in the region have electric power supply. The main problems are related to the quality of the electric power (voltage) and the continuity of supply (hours of supply/day). This last indicator has been improved substantially during the last 10 years, but it is still a weak point in the area.

The towns do not have a bus station or public transport lines linking the centre of the commune with the villages and the public transport depends on transit lines from neighbouring municipalities.

5.2 EMPLOYMENT

Employment is the main problem identified by all the stakeholders from all three countries - Albania, Kosovo* or Montenegro. All stakeholders participating in the process, considered that the unemployment level is a key issue for development of the region.

The figures about the employment rate in the region are not fully consolidated for several reasons:

-There are differences between the registered job seekers and the real jobless work force. Actually, part of the jobless work force is not registered in the employment offices and therefore not presented in the statistical reviews. - The high level of informal businesses and employments creates discrepancies between the registered employed and the actual employed labour force. During the last years the situation has improved considerably, but it still needs to be further improved. - The assumption that the work force living in the rural areas is fully employed in agriculture. This assumption is not verified in the rural areas where hidden unemployment is present. Nevertheless, the official data are the only source of information about the unemployment rate in the considered area.

The high level of unemployment is a constant indicator in the whole region, pushing an important share of the population out of the area. The unemployment rate is extremely high in some communes/ municipalities such as the municipalities of Tropoja or the commune of Decan where the unemployment

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rate is up to 65%. Local stakeholders consider that the high level of unemployment is mainly due to the ineffectiveness of the local economy to vitalise the economic sector and to increase the job offer.

Due to continuous economic difficulties in the mountainous areas of Montenegro, local people find it risky to start up their own businesses and entrepreneurship spirit is not developed. The time has shown that most secure jobs are the ones in governmental institutions, which is backed up by statistical data. Majority of employed people in the Montenegrin municipalities are employed in health or educational public institutions, or in local governments. This trend started with the collapse of the economy, which was exaggerated by both central and local governments by bringing in additional employees, burdening the budget to the point that no funds are left for actual capital investments. But most importantly, this practice caused young people to dream about working in the institutions instead in the private sector or in agriculture.

The economic activities in the region are mainly of a small scale, mainly services and food processing. The main part of the Gross Domestic Product (GDP) is provided by agriculture and services. There are only few exceptions for activities that have national importance such as the hydro power plant of Fireza in the municipality of Tropoja, Albania.

The economic structure in the region is quite similar: commerce and services, agriculture, construction and wood processing (especially in the Montenegrin communes/municipalities) are the main economic sectors of the region. These results are corroborated considering the employment, or the share of GDP.

The interviewed stakeholders stated that three main economic sectors with the best potential for local development of the region are: 1) Agriculture 2) Tourism and 3) Hydro energy and natural resources.

Most of the stakeholders from Montenegro stated that there are local strategies for development, and when it comes to the implementation most of the funding is from the state, international donors, and small share from the local governments. Overall, stakeholders agree that much more resources should be allocated for the implementation of local/regional development strategies.

The main obstacles in the economic sector of Rožaje, according to the statements of the interviewed stakeholders are the black market, corruption, custom procedures and disloyal local competition. The producers act individually, competing with each other and there are no initiatives for joint market approach.

The local stakeholders have stated that agriculture and tourism are the economic sectors with the highest potential to become drivers of development in the region.

5.3 LOCAL ECONOMY PER ECONOMIC SECTORS 5.3.1 Agriculture

Crop production The main economic activity in the region of “Prokletije- Bjeshkët e Namuna” is agriculture. The Figure 11 shows the share of agricultural land against the total surface of each commune/municipality in the region of “Prokletije - Bjeshkët e Namuna”. The different bluish colours present the share of agricultural area to the total surface of the respective commune/municipality. The light green column shows the share of arable land to the total agricultural land, and the dark green column show the share of sown land to the arable one. The main part of the region has agricultural land in the range from 41-

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70% of the total surface of the area (Malësi e Madhe, Andrijevice, Plav, Rožaje, Peja). Only Tropojë has an agricultural surface less than 10%, showing the limited land availability in this municipality.

Figure 11: The share of agricultural land (to the total area), the share of arable land (to the agricultural land) and the level of arable land utilisation (sown land/arable land)

Arable Sown Agricultural land land/Agricultura area/Arable Commune/Municipality /Area surface (%) l land (%) land (%) Rožaje 46 65 7 Berane 35 85 1 Plav 51 32 23 Andrijevica 46 65 1 Shkodër 80 52 105 Malësi e Madhe 51 22 167 Tropojë 7 22 106 Peja 51 na na Deçan 31 66 180 Source: ID cards of the municipalities

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The share of arable land (as part of agricultural land) in the main part of the region is lower than 50%. This is logical taking into consideration the hilly and mountainous relief of the cross-border region. Although limited, this resource is not fully utilised. The indicator of the sown area (as share of the arable area) is more than one only for the Albanian municipalities and Deçan, Kosovo*, and quite low for the Montenegrin municipalities where the share of sown area is less than 0.1. The above mentioned indicators show that the agriculture sector in the area is typical for the mountainous areas, where there are lower possibilities for development of crop production and higher possibilities for development of the livestock sector. Therefore, the other important agricultural sub-sector is livestock breeding. Being a mountainous area, the livestock sub-sector plays an important role for the economy of the region.

The average farm size in the region varies. The farms in Albania are much smaller and less equipped compared with the farms in Kosovo* and Montenegro.

Table 7: Structural indicators of the region farming units in each Commune/ Municipality

Commune/ Municipality Total arable land in ha Average farm size in ha ha/tractor Rožaje 13,712 6.56 na Berane 25,475 5.60 na Plav 14,122 5.69 na Andrijevica 10,257 7.26 na Shkodër na 1.40 na Malësi e Madhe 15,955 1.85 64.33 Tropojë 3,870 0.90 38.37 Peja 21,024 3.48 6.20 Deçan 10,043 2.49 9.10 Source: Calculated based on the information from the Statistics Offices of Albania, Montenegro, Kosovo*

The agriculture structure and crop production in the region have two main characteristics: low land areas dominated by vegetables and sub-tropical permanent trees typical for the area of Shkodra, and typical mountainous areas with important share of cereals and fodder crops, quite reduced area for production of vegetables, but important area with beans and potatoes- typical for municipalities of Berane, Plav, Tropoja etc. As mentioned above, the medicinal and industrial crops are present especially in the municipalities of Shkodra - traditionally known for the cultivation of tobacco, and medicinal herbs, as well as in Malësia e Madhe where the cultivation of medicinal herbs plays a crucial role for the subsistence of rural households.

Table 8: Crop structure in “Prokletije- Bjeshkët e Namuna” in ha

Commune/Municipality Cereals Vegetables͐ Fodder Permanent crops Industrial crops͐͐ ͐͐ Rožaje 46.9 14.7 35.7 4.7 0 Berane 127 55.9 140 56.7 1 Plav 78.4 57 6.5 0.6 0 Andrijevica 35.7 7.9 28.8 0.1 0 Shkodër 7073 5673 16265 1705 318 Malësi e Madhe 823 1837 4500 1256 3809 Tropojë 780 220 2866 N.A. ͐͐ ͐͐ ͐͐ 4.15 Peja 5558 2222 6082 457 0 Deçan 1004 667 4702 757 0 >Vegetables include beans and potatoes, >>Industrial crops includes herbs, spices and medicinal herbs, >>> Figures for Tropoja are not presented in ha, but in trees (the trees are not in regular plantations areas) so for Tropoja we have 1,700 apple trees, 12,539 plum trees, and 8,700 chestnut trees.

Source: Shkodër: Guidë e Shkodrës, (Shkodër 2009); Tropojë: Programi i zonës funksionale Tropojë (Tiranë 2015); Malësi e Madhe: Programi i zonës funksionale Malësi e Madhe (Tiranë 2015); Peja, Deçan: Local development Strategies (2014), Montenegro, Agricultural census 2010.

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The map below shows the distribution of agricultural land with the five main groups of crops: i.e. cereals, vegetables, fodder crops, permanent and industrial crops.

Figure 12: Crop structure in ha

Source: Calculated based on the information from the Statistics Offices of Albania, Montenegro, Kosovo*

Animal husbandry

The stakeholders identified two main types of livestock systems in the area: i) an extensive one mainly present in the Albanian rural areas and in Montenegrin mountainous areas, with little added fodder only during the wintertime and natural oak leaves during winter for sheep and goats, and ii) more intensive livestock systems for cattle and sheep (typical for part of the rural areas of Montenegro and Kosovo*) characterised by significant quantities of added feed (during the whole year), and less days of natural grazing. The second system is more productive, but less appreciated by the consumers, especially when meat products are considered. The difference in meat quality justifies the export of cattle meat from Albania to Kosovo*. The sheep and goat meat is usually consumed in the region. The development of the internal tourist offer has substantially increased the internal meat market.

The important characteristic of cattle breeding in the mountainous areas of Montenegro is the transhumance to higher pastures in summer – to temporary settlements called “katuni”. This practice is excellent for having better quality of pastures in the mountains, and it showcases important traditions of Montenegrin farmers, specific mountainous customs and culture, which is particularly important for tourism. The areas where “katuni” are located are high up in the mountains, near mountaineering, hiking and mountain biking trails, and development of tourism services in “katuni” would be beneficial for farmers and also for more diverse tourism offer in the region. This tradition is mainly applied only for small ruminants in Albania.

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Figure 13: The number of livestock (cattle bluish colour, and sheep orange bars) heads per ha of agricultural area

Commune/Municipality Cattle Sheep Rožaje 0.27 0.43 Berane 0.26 0.72 Plav 0.17 0. 47 Andrijevica 0.13 0.36 Shkodër 0.20 0.29 Malësi e Madhe 0.19 0.73 Tropojë 0.13 0.54 Peja 0.50 0.14 Deçan 1.56 0.67 Source: Communal/ municipal strategies of Malësi e Madhe, Tropojë, Peja, Deçan, Statistics Office of Montenegro, ID municipality card of Shkodra One of the disadvantages of livestock production is the lack of milk processing facilities in the area. Some of the municipalities do not have any milk processing facilities or their capacity is insufficient for the local production (e.g. Tropoja). The same applies for the slaughterhouses. Many of them do not fulfil the legal hygiene and food safety requirements.

Major constrains related to agriculture sector in the region, identified by the stakeholders are:

• Land security is one of the main problems that lead to reduced agricultural activity in the rural areas. The land division in 1991 is done by following different rules in different areas of the municipalities in Albania. The lowland areas (former areas owned by the landlords of Shkodra), are divided following the so called Law Nr. 7501 (equal surface of land for each member of the rural household). On the other hand, in the mountainous areas, the land is divided according to the surfaces the households had before the collectivisation period. This type of land distribution is not performed according to the Law Nr. 7501, and is not recognised by the

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public institutions, so the families use this area, but they do not have any official document to prove their ownership. These incongruences reduce considerably the land security and the cultivation surfaces. The small plots owned by rural households and the low land fertility, forced farmers toward cultivation and collection of herbs and spices. The cultivation of sage, lavender and other herbs and spices, has been quite profitable activity during the last five years. During the last year, the price of sage and chestnuts has been decreasing, reducing the income for numerous rural families especially in the Albanian part of the region. • Lack of irrigation systems in the area. Namely, the irrigation system is quite obsolete or not functional in the most of the region. The irrigation facilities inherited form the socialist period are not functional. The low possibility for irrigation reduces considerably the possibilities for agricultural activities in the region. • Lack of markets for agricultural products, for e.g. the market of spices and herbs. • Lack of fruit processing facilities in the communes/municipalities of Albania and Kosovo* especially for fruits as plums, blueberries, apples etc. The construction of new and modern processing facility in Junik, Kosovo* will provide opportunities for production of products with higher value in Kosovo*, but also for using products from Albania, as well. • Lack of cooperation between the farmers. It is a chronic problem of Albanian agriculture and it is problematic also in the municipalities of Kosovo* and Montenegro. In Albania for example, the destruction of the former economic units - cooperatives after their collapse in the beginning of 1990s, makes it difficult to start again the cooperation of operators in the agricultural sector. Nevertheless, there are positive examples like the association of farmers “Reçiprodhimtar” in Reç of Malësia e Madhe, Albania. The farmers have created an association of milk and honey producers, chestnuts and sage collectors in order to be more competitive on the market. Now they have constructed (with the support of foreign agencies) storehouses and dairy and milk processing facilities. Nearly 1500t of milk, and more than 600 tons of chestnuts are stored and sold by the association every year. Out of three registered agriculture cooperatives in Plav Municipality only one is operational - Agriculture Cooperative Murino which has been privatized and now is a private company. • Lack of knowledge and skills, particularly related to modern technology in farming, lack of support services, availability of loans for rural households. Some of the respondents stated that there is much more capacity for agriculture, but people left the villages. Those that are actively producing are competing with imported products. The production costs are high, while the scale of production is low, which causes problems in terms of competitiveness. • There is an enormous potential for organic production, but local markets are not ready for the higher prices of organic products, and on the other hand the scale of production is too low for export.

In addition, other issues that could hinder the development of this sector are: lack of storage and cooling facilities and points of sale, low motivation of young people to start businesses related to agriculture, low capacities of local producers to apply EU standards and requirements, lack of knowledge about certification processes, lack of new technologies, and small scale of production.

5.3.2 TOURISM Tourism is foreseen to be one of the main economic activities in the region for the municipalities of Albania, Kosovo* and Montenegro. The improvement of the road infrastructure and the investments in the mountainous areas of the region made the region accessible both for domestic and foreign tourists.

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The hosting capacities have improved considerably during the last years especially in the Albanian municipalities3. Small and family managed hostels are steadily replacing traditional large hotels in the area.

The astonishing tourist offer in the valley of Valbona (24 hotels and more than 30 thousand visitors each year) clearly shows the development possibility of the area. The tourists are of two types - daily visitors mainly coming from Kosovo*, and those who spend two or three days in the region. Now there are many travel agencies from Tirana who offer a three days tourist programme - from Tirana to Koman lake (artificial lake) - Valbona Valley – and Theth (Malësi e Madhe) by foot and then Shkodra – Tirana both for Albanian and foreign tourists.

The tourism development in the region has boosted the economic development.

Figure 14: Hosting capacities in the region (beds) and its structure

Commune/Municipality Beds Hotels Motels Rožaje 175 3 2 Berane 90 3 1 Plav 154 2 5 Andrijevica 141 2 1 Shkodër 2,500 250 30 Malësi e Madhe 350 3 10 Tropojë 578 8 24 Peja 326 10 0 Deçan 300 10 5

Source: Communal/municipal strategies of Malësi e Madhe, Tropojë, Peja, Deçan, Statistics Office of Montenegro, ID municipality card of Shkodra

3 Please note that the figures for Shkodra may be a misleading because it was impossible to divide the hosting capacities located on the mountain areas vs. the coastal areas ones. For the Malësia e Madhe this difference is made.

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The tourist offer for rural accommodation that exists in the former communes of Shkodra and Malësi e Madhe, was enriched by renovated traditional hostels already present in the area. This type of tourist offer is quite appreciated by domestic and foreign visitors.

The tourist offer in the region is available throughout the year, during summer in Albania and Montenegro and in winter in the communes of Kosovo*, connecting places that traditionally have not been connected (e.g. Tropoja with Theth).

However, this important development is still far away from using the possibilities offered by the region due to the lacking infrastructures (drinking water supply, road infrastructure), difficult procedures for crossing from one country to another, or missing and/or not well connected border points (Border point Bashkimi, Plav – Vermosh, Plav - Peja). The drinking water network is not efficient and many villages are not supplied with drinking water regularly, or not supplied at all. Especially, the problem is more present in the mountainous areas with high tourist potential (e.g. Razma, Albania). During the last 20 years several investments were made to improve the situation, but they are not sufficient or not functioning. For e.g. in the former commune of Reç, there are three drinking water providing facilities but, the villages are supplied with water only for three hours a day.

The stakeholders identified several obstacles for tourism development:

• Competition on national level (in Montenegro municipalities) since, only a small portion of tourists visiting Montenegro decides to visit north rather than the coast. • The low number of visitors is also due to the lack of skilled labour in the tourism sector. • Lack of business support services and no favourable loans for tourism businesses. • Lack of strategic plans for tourism development in the region. • The region is not in the main offer of the travel agencies. The tourists that visit this region are mostly welcomed and guided by local mountaineers, fisherman and other outdoor enthusiasts.

Stakeholders believe that most of the guests are actually members of the diaspora originating from the region, visiting their birthplaces during vacation, while the international tourists are discovering the South part of the region (Valbona or Theth or Bjelasica Mountain).

There are some registered rural households (Berane, Andrijevica, and Plav) active in rural tourism, but they are at the very beginning of their activity.

There are no active travel agencies in the region. However, there are groups of enthusiasts mostly engaged in outdoor clubs that unofficially deal with inbound tourism by organizing visits of mountaineers, fisherman and other nature lovers from abroad.

There are no reliable statistical data on the number of tourists visiting the region, their country of origin, number of overnights etc. According to the interviewed stakeholders, Rožaje is mostly visited by tourists from diaspora and tourists from the cross-border region.

The tourism sector is also most commonly recognized as the sector that could benefit the most from cross-border cooperation. Experiences related to cross border cooperation in the tourism sector are very limited in the region of “Prokletije- Bjeshkët e Namuna”.

Mountain tourism in Montenegro has been boosted by the declaration of protected areas of Prokletije and recently Komovi. The national government, as well as local governments are not sufficiently engaged in developing this offer further. Most tourist products in Montenegrin municipalities in

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Prokletije region have been developed through international funding, and this offer should always be upgraded, and new offers developed. Local people are still not convinced that employment can be gained in tourism, and when thinking of tourism, they imagine large hotels, ski resorts etc., and most tourists who come to the region come in summer. Tourism agencies in Montenegro, aside from couple of bright examples, still rather choose to target coastal area than the mountains. The key attraction of mountainous Montenegro is nature, and none of the northern municipalities have regulated solid waste disposal practices. So a paradox happens that nature lovers are the key tourism group, and scattered waste is what will greet them in most of the populated areas.

Tourists who come to “Prokletije- Bjeshkët e Namuna” region, perceive this area as one, and do not see the borders between the countries. One particular project that showcased the importance of this whole zone is Peaks of the Balkans project, developing a hiking trail that connects Kosovo*, Montenegro and Albania. This project has been very successfully promoted, and has brought significant number of tourists to the region. 5.3.3 Other sectors

Forestry and wood processing

Another important sector in the region is forestry. The key problem in the forestry sector is enormous exploitation, compared to almost no value added. Namely, wood is exported as a raw material, and there is very little processing organized in the region.

Wood processing has been also identified as a sector that can influence the development of local economy to a great extent. This was specially emphasised by stakeholders in Plav municipality. As regards to this sector, stakeholders consider that managing this resource is also an obstacle since exploitation of forests is managed mainly by public companies.

Recently in Albania the wood industry was imposed a moratorium on forests exploitation. The moratorium is intended to provide room for improving the situation in forestry sector, yet it will for sure have a negative impact on the income in the area.

Landscape in “Prokletije- Bjeshkët e Namuna” region

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6. CROSS-BORDER COOPERATION AND INSTITUTIONAL POSSIBILITIES

Cross-border collaboration in the region is traditional and intensive. It has intensified even more during the last twenty years. It is worthwhile to have in mind the fact that cross-border collaboration has at least four dimensions:

1) Cross-border collaboration between the population: The region has quite an intensive collaboration history in terms of marriages, human connections between the population on the two sides of the border. The interaction between the population of Malësia e Madhe and the commune of Plav has been intensive until the Second World War. The important cities of the region like Gjakovo, and Peja, have been the main economic centres for the whole area (including Tropojë) and Shkodra has played the same role for the Plav area. Northern parts of the region have had markets in Gjakovo, and Peja, western in Podgorica and southern in the Albanian part, in Shkodra. In that context the cross-border collaboration was part of everyday life for the local population. After the borders were closed in the early ’50 of the last century, the economic centres of interest have been changed focusing on the main cities located within the national territory.

The collaboration has been intensified during the ’90, by re-establishing the same relations between the populations as before. The local stakeholders consider the territories on the other side of the borders as geographical and historical part of their own territory. This is clear when the stakeholders of Tropoja state that they consider themselves same as the population of the mountainous area of Dukagjin and the inhabitants of Kelmend and Shkel have the same traditions and share the same culture with the inhabitants of Plav.

2) Cross-border collaboration on services: The local stakeholders (civil society and public ones) have identified the collaboration between the local communities in terms of services offered. The inhabitants of some Albanian communes use the health service in health institutions in Plav and Berane, especially during winter.

The communes/municipalities on both sides of the border jointly agree on the terms of the services provided for the communities related to cleaning of snow-blocked roads.

3) Economic cross-border collaboration: Some of the cities of the area (Gjakovo, Peja) are considered to be the main economic and commercial centres for the region. The stakeholders from Tropoja, consider that the border controls impede the economic activities, and re-orient it to Tirana rather than to Gjakovo or Peja. Cities of Kosovo* are also the main centres for agricultural products such as meat (mainly cattle), as well as for wild collected products, herbs and spices, chestnuts and other non- timber forest products.

4) The cross-border project collaboration: The municipalities/communes part of the cross-border region have a long history of cross-border collaboration in common project development. The main topics of the projects are the environment (e.g. administration of common resources as Shkodra Lake), improvement of the common traditions (festivals, fairs), identification of common tourist destinations (tours with attractions from both sides of the border) or improvement of infrastructure (internet broadband infrastructure) etc. The stakeholders consider that the local capacities to identify,

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write and implement projects are limited, especially in the mountainous areas. The civil society in these areas is not fully developed. So, mainly cross-border projects have been partially or completely managed by public or non-profitable associations located in the main cities of the region (Shkodra, Peja, Berane etc.). Migration considerably reduces local capacities.

The stakeholders consider that the efficiency of these projects is limited and only few of them can establish activities that are sustainable after the project ends. They think that projects should move from the stage of problem identification and preparation of strategies to the application of possible solutions for local communities.

Natural resources in “Prokletije- Bjeshkët e Namuna” region

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7. CONCLUSIONS, GENERAL REMARKS ABOUT THE REGION

7.1 ASSESSMENT OF SOCIAL CAPITAL FROM THE PERSPECTIVE OF RURAL DEVELOPMENT

The openness of the society is not at the same level in all communities of the region. Parts of the region which are closer to strong urban centres have more developed civil society (e.g. Shkodër) while, less developed remote rural areas have weak local economic and social development (e.g. Tropoja). Nevertheless, all local authorities are capable of promoting development of social capital and can invest in order to improve the actual situation.

The problems that the communes/municipalities have, are important, and come from a long history of low economic and social development. Nevertheless, the situation is not non-reversible. In all communes there are local stakeholders ready to work locally and willing to develop solutions for economic development that are different from the traditional ones.

There are two main characteristics that are highlighted by the stakeholders:

The economic development of the region should combine traditional economic sectors (agriculture, food processing etc.) with the tourism sector.

The development of tourism cannot be only local (on a commune and/or municipality level) but, it should be on a regional level based on the collaboration of the several communes and municipalities from the region. There are some positive experiences of collaboration between the communes/ municipalities of the region, such as Peace Balkan Park, service supply, market for the raw agricultural products, which confirms the general idea that collaboration in the region is possible.

In each commune/municipality there are some good experiences on local economic and social development that confirm positive dynamics. Nevertheless, there are some main obstacles that should be mentioned: lack of infrastructure in some communes, lack of services, lack of well-trained population on local level etc.

The economic development of the region is not adequate; the communes/municipalities of the region are classified as less developed compared to the others in the respective countries. The mountainous characteristics of the region play an important role in the isolation and lower economic development of the region.

It is important to stress the fact that the local communities are more and more conscious about the regional possibilities for economic development (diversified tourist offer) and the improvement of the road infrastructure makes the development of these regional possibilities even more real.

The agricultural and farming practices in the whole region (with exception of the Kosovo* communes located on the Dukagjin Plain) are extensive, based on the multi crops products (mostly cereals), extensive livestock breeding and collection of non-wood forest by-products. The local stakeholders

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consider that in some communes (e.g. Tropoja), the agriculture production is being diverted towards the tourist demand, and is linked with food processing facilities in the region (Junik, Peja). The development of the commercial farms can be made possible by using some niche products (chestnuts, blueberries, herbs and spices etc.) that are particularly abundant in the area and well appreciated by national and especially foreign wholesalers. Nevertheless, the region is still missing important markets, and the stakeholders consider that the prices they have are lower and are constantly decreasing in the last years (sage in Shkodra, chestnuts in Tropoja etc.). The efforts of local stakeholders to create PDO and/or PGI (Protected Geographic Indication) for local products in the region may increase the added value for these products. Certification of organic products is also an important step towards valorising local agricultural production.

The region is characterised by a dominance of agricultural and public employment and is less diversified to other sectors. The development of other sectors (tourism, services, commerce), is not strong enough to provide employment opportunities for the local communities, and the unemployment is still one of the main problems in the region.

The cross-border region of “Prokletije - Bjeshkët e Namuna” is the subject of several agreements between communes/municipalities and the stakeholders list several joint collaborations between the communes. Some of them are no longer active, but some of them have been important for the economic development of the region (e.g. the Peace Park, touristic destinations etc.)

7.2 GENERAL CONCLUSIONS ON HUMAN RESOURCES

The human resources in the region have some similar characteristics:

• High level of migration, both internal and external, due to the difficult economic situation or lack of infrastructure and services; • Lack of compatibility between the offer and the demand on the labour market, due to an obsolete or lack of vocational education in the municipalities of the region; • High level of poverty i.e. high number of people receiving social welfare; • Many young people are facing difficulties to be integrated.

7.3 ASSESSMENT OF NATURAL AND CULTURAL HERITAGE WITH REGARD TO RURAL DEVELOPMENT

General conclusions on natural resources

The cross-border region of “Prokletije- Bjeshkët e Namuna”, is well know because of its natural resources which are used as a basis for the economic development of the region.

The region is rich in diversity of ecosystems and in landscapes (mountains, lakes, hills, and valleys).

The region traditionally has used the natural resources (wild flora, mineral resources, and hydro power) as an instrument for economic development.

In some areas of the region the overexploitation of natural resources (wood, fish etc.) has threatened

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the survival of species and plants. It has as well decreased the resilience of the local population.

The stakeholders consider natural resources to be a key factor for improving the future economic prospective for the whole area. They believe that the sustainable use of natural resources in terms of landscapes, has to be agreed with other communities sharing the same area. Waste disposal and the lack of awareness of local population about waste disposal is an enormous problem in the region. In close vicinity to protected zones, visitors will see litter, rivers in particular are full of solid waste. Rural areas are not covered with the services of utility companies, so this problem is particularly severe in rural areas, where the potential for tourism is strongest.

Valuation of natural and cultural heritage against rural development

The region has an important natural and cultural heritage that is being used for developing tourism in the region. The whole region can claim important natural and cultural heritage, some of it used, some of it foreseen to be used. The communes/ municipalities foresee to use a lot of the cultural heritage in the tourist offer of the region.

7.4 ESTIMATE OF THE LEVEL OF SUSTAINABILITY WITHIN THE EXISTING ECONOMY

The economic development of the region is based on the use of natural resources (wood and forests) that are not always exploited in a sustainable way. The overexploitation of forests, and of wild spices and herbs in the Albanian communes/municipalities, is an example of the lack of sustainability in the area.

7.5 CLASSIFYING THE REGION– POTENTIAL FOR COMMON RURAL DEVELOPMENT AND CAPACITIES FOR IMPROVING CROSS-BORDER COOPERATION

As a general conclusion, the region is classified according to the following indicators:

• Ability to connect with other (including international) markets, - important in the region for some products, however still not able to add value; • The potential for innovations is low. If innovations appear they follow main trends which are not always appropriate for the conditions in the region and therefore not quite certain; • The significance of legacies from the past (e.g. old industrial areas, depopulated rural areas), in some areas they are important but the majority of them are not in use in Albania, Kosovo* or Montenegro.

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8. STRATEGIC PLANNING FOR THE CROSS-BORDER REGION “PROKLETIJE- BJESHKËT E NAMUNA” 8.1 RATIONALE BEHIND THE IDEA OF ESTABLISHING THE CROSS-BORDER REGION AND STARTING THE STRATEGIC PLANNING PROCESS

The mountain range of Prokletije- Bjeshkët e Namuna was shaping the lives of communities in Albania, Kosovo* and Montenegro for ages in a very similar way – by limiting their economy. Traditional rural economy was characterized by low production and profit, yet resulting in high value, recognizable and appreciated products. The main existing sectors in this economy have no chance to improve performance, and available natural resources provide limited opportunity for introduction of new economic sectors. This is opening possibilities for rural economy diversification, mainly within an attractive tourism value chain and adjacent economy activities. These new economies demand an integrated, area based development of new, complex value chains based on rational use of available resources without borders and limits, except natural. The establishment of a cross-border region and starting the strategic planning process demands regional harmonization and achieving high level of internal cohesion to reach the level sufficient for an external promotion, which would enable a less complicated survival of local communities or even their prosperity. The region is characterized with natural and physical assets limited to forest resources in part of the region, and in large part there are harsh climate and geological/soil structures. However, the region is of exceptional beauty and biodiversity value. There are three national parks in Prokletije - one in Montenegro and two in Albania. A fourth national park has been proposed for Kosovo*. This nature should be managed in concerted way to prevent various risks. The space is divided by steep rocky formations, but its pastures and forests, wild fauna, torrent waters or forest fires do not recognize country borders, just as a visitor from a remote world destination can’t understand why its mountain track should vanish in the middle of nothing.

And yes, “Prokletije- Bjeshkët e Namuna” Region shares even more than nature. There are few challenging issues connected with endegenous resources of the region, which should be adressed by cross-border development activities from all 3 sides:

• Human capital is unequally distributed between highlands and lowlands; remote areas are depopulated, migration intensive; • Infrastructure connecting people over country borders is poor and insufficient and heavy terrains prevent its fast rehabilitation or erection; • Economic relations are still dominated by trade in a grey zone, rather than having the characteristic of true cooperation; cross border relations are still modest due to geography of the region (infrastructure) and limited number of border crossings.

What also should be emphasised is the fact that the most prominent development opportunities are suitable for the whole “Prokletije- Bjeshkët e Namuna” Region: • Dynamic areas are accessible on the national level, but are still remote considering the quality of infrastructure over the border. Accessibility/proximity of dynamic areas – there are some big

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urban cities (Shkodra, Peja), however, not all region has an easy access to these urban centres; Cultural relations exist, but could be intensified; Tourism opportunities exist in particular with extreme sports (famous climbers destinations in the region), but the region is still not well known and is insufficiently promoted worldwide. Tourism opportunities are important, but the region needs to integrate them in one tourist destination to gain more benefits; • High value added agro-food potential exists mainly within traditional livestock production and processing, potato production etc. but, the local gastronomy offer is still poor. High value added agro-food potential lies also with herbs and spices, fruit trees and other non-timber forest products; • Environmental management issues within forestry sector should be addressed, especially because the situation is critical in all parts of the region (overexploitation of the forest areas, erosion); • Human capital is valuable, but not well trained to deal with sustainable rural development; • Infrastructure is so poor that during the wintertime it is almost dangerous to live here; • Economic relations exist among the parts of the region, but still the border points, and custom procedures impede them a lot; • Cross-border relations traditionally exist between the Albanian communities, yet more should be done to make them more intensive and productive between the different nations which live there; • Natural and physical assets are important and exist but, are not well exploited.

All listed topics require joint strategic approach. The estimation of their value and selection of actions should be conducted jointly, therefore stakeholders of the Region accepted the proposal of the SWG RRD Assembly to establish the region and to start developing its development strategy in participatory manner. The results of the baseline analysis were accepted as a starting point for discussion.

During the plenary discussions, for the purpose of launching the priority identification, as an initial step in strategic planning, the Stakeholder Group (SHG) defined the priority thematic areas/ sectors for future development in “Prokletije- Bjeshkët e Namuna” region: 1. Forestry and forest products (collection of wild fruits), hunting and fishing 2. Agriculture production and livestock breeding 3. Processing of agriculture and forestry products 4. Tourism and gastronomy

It was suggested that sectors listed will play the role of the main thematic areas around which groups will gather, yet intersectoral cooperation, complex value chains composed from more than one sector and support to the integrated rural development will be particularly emphasised when designing project concepts. This approach is seen as the most appropriate for the region, rather than the sectorial one. The SWOT analysis was performed by local experts for all thematic priorities and separately by four SHG thematic working groups on four priority themes: forestry including collection practices, hunting and fishing, primary agriculture production, processing of both agriculture and forestry products, as well as tourism and gastronomy.

The SWOT analysis was completed looking through the perspective of the cross-cutting issues in every thematic area: • natural resources, • cultural resources, • human resources (number of active inhabitants, active local communities, formal and non- formal education, skills, training, youth, women, etc.), • institutions and support (institutional, advisory, financial on the local and national level, international level);

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• infrastructure and equipment (machines, equipment, infrastructure, energy etc.); • markets (marketing and promotion).

8.2 ANALYSIS OF THE POTENTIAL NECESSARY FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF RURAL ECONOMY

Expert view i.e. SWOT analysis of the region on the basis of a baseline analysis was performed by the local expert. Results were as follows:

SWOT for the thematic priority area: Agriculture, animal husbandry, beekeeping (primary production) Capital STRENGTHS WEAKNESSES dimension Biodiverse grassland vegetation in the area is high; Overexploitation of natural resources/high stock density in some areas (pastures and forests Local breeds and plant varieties adapted to on lower altitudes no matter of elevation, while natural conditions are present; capital) those on higher elevations, remote and too Valuable diversity of wild herbs and fruit is (Environmental steep are often abandoned) Natural resources present; Transhumance pastoralism, before also Traditions connected to livestock farming are transhumance – An exceptional way of dying out with outmigration of population using grasslands, but also other natural

capital) Traditional families and communities are under Cultural (Cultural resources which properly follow natural resources seasonal dynamics of vegetation threat to vanish Interest for agriculture is dropping down due to Know-how on agricultural and livestock low profits; traditional systems in the area; Little information about new techniques and the Human capital) (Human

resources Farmers are with large experience true value of old ones in new market conditions are available Properly (based on ages of experience) Road infrastructure is bad; Availability of mar- situated summer settlements/shelters, kets and pastures is therefore bad also although often in bad shape, represent Equipment and facilities are poor; good potential for revitalisation of pastoral Low level of investments and equipment on the Infrastructure and equipment systems farm level Typical products recognized and appreciat- Difficulties to reach the markets ed by local, national and even international trade operators; Product storage during the year is a problem,

Economic capital so products go directly to the market seasonally Production of local products in the area is with low price; Market increasing with rising interest on regional markets (new links, for instance between The farmers get low prices, profit is going exclu- Kosovo* market and Albanian producers) sively to traders The policy instruments don’t focus on the diffi- Existing policy instruments dealing with culties in the area – derogation and subsidies area and typical area products; are needed for LFAs

capital) Existing extension and veterinary services Insufficient institutional support (credit lines, Institutions and support (Institutional in the area financial support etc.) Number of environmental organisations in- terested in sustainable agriculture and civil Generally underdeveloped NGO sector; sector dedicated to conservation of local (Social capital) cultural heritage which include traditional Regional cohesion is low Society and organisation farming systems

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Capital OPPORTUNITIES THREATS dimension

Valuable highland pastures Higher risk for natural resources (fires etc.) Natural capital) resources (Environmental

Outmigration is reducing the number of animals Traditional High Nature Value Farming; holding valuable animal genetic resources, and Systems and agro diversity related capital) Cultural (Cultural local assortment of grown plants resources

Outmigration is reducing the number of animals Change of mentality about agriculture holding valuable animal genetic resources, and Human capital) (Human local assortment of grown plants resources

Different possibilities to finance agricultural Lack of public investments in agriculture and investments rural areas Infrastructure and equipment

Economic capital Higher interest in typical products; Very fluid and high quality demanding markets

Market Positive trend on medicinal herbs

Trained and skilful staff of some regional General austerity economic policies in the area development agencies capital) Institutions and support (Institutional

Still strong family ties and family traditions of mountain people; Intensive outmigration (Social capital) Alive rural communities codices Society and organisation

SWOT for the thematic priority area: Forestry and forest products, hunting and fisheries The local expert skipped this thematic priority since one of the countries in the region – Albania has completely banned exploitation of forests, so the SWOT could be related only to the rest of countries in the region, therefore will not be regional. The following SWOT for this thematic priority is presenting the lead expert`s view which is completed despite that legal fact. It is presented to show the potentials of this important economic sector and also the obstacles to the regional rural economy development. The legal ban for exploiting forest resources in Albania was in fact used as an opportunity for recovering forestry sector in Albania, and also as a possibility for using good practices in the region for achieving this recovery.

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Capital STRENGTHS WEAKNESSES dimension

Chaotic management and overexploitation of Rich forests of high economic value (tim- forests (illegal logging, illegal hunting, irregular ber, wild game, non-timber forest products) collection of herbs and mushrooms, destruction Natural capital) resources of habitats etc.) (Environmental

Degradation of local communities and of tradi- Some traditional sustainable practices for tional family values leading to abandonment of exploitation of forests and sustaining life traditional good practices, replacing them with of local communities which can add value Cultural non-critical introduction of novelties which are resources through tourism not in line with the resources (Cultural capital)

Populations in smaller local communities Intensive depopulation and aging of the popu- are still vibrant and attached to remote lation Human capital) (Human mountain destinations resources

Poor and not in line with standards, especially when environmental protection is concerned or quality of products (such as wild fruits, which Present as a minimum to sustain life should be processed closer to the source and

equipment not transported to high distances via bad roads,

Infrastructure and because they are losing quality) Economic capital Exist for most of the forest products Remote, requesting just raw materials Market

Exist on national level and on donor level, some credit lines also exist; Small budgets, peculiarities not recognised (less favoured areas), rare subsidies capital) CBC Programme exist Institutions and support (Institutional

Social capital is still poor, budgets for their Few strong NGOs and regional develop- operations are small; lack of knowledge and ment agencies are operating in the region capacity to raise funds Society and organisation (Social capital)

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Capital OPPORTUNITIES THREATS dimension

Moratorium on exploitation of forests and ban on hunting in Albania as a chance Continuation of overexploitation in Montenegro for introduction of advanced planning and and Kosovo* Natural capital) resources recovery of resources (Environmental

People to people activities Political tensions and economic crisis capital) Cultural (Cultural resources

Continuation of outmigration of young people; People coming back to their villages from abroad willing to start business in the region Apathy of young people due to economic crisis and political tensions (Human capital) Human resources

Low absorption capacity;

IPARD should become soon available to the whole territory Lack of favourable credit lines on the market for

equipment providing own contribution and pre-financing of investments Infrastructure and

Niche markets in the region and Europe

Economic capital primarily in tourism; Lack of capability to invest in introduction of

Market modern food safety standards Internal market for food products within the tourism value chain

Reluctance of state administration to deal with Legal ban over use of forest resources in necessary derogations for traditional products Albania capital) legislation Institutions and support (Institutional

Further development of the NGO sector; Continuous domination of individuals in life of local communities (political and/or economic (Social capital) Introduction of LEADER domination) Society and organisation

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SWOT for the thematic priority area: Processing of agriculture and forest products

Capital STRENGTHS WEAKNESSES dimension

Important natural resources exist to be Difficulties to supply processing units with local used as raw material raw material capital) (Environmental Natural resources

Typical products of the region do not meet food Typical products of the region safety standards Cultural resources (Cultural capital)

Long history of processing activity in the area/ skills and traditional knowledge exist Lack of professionals in the sector within seculars (Human capital) Human resources

Equipment for processing exists in the Lack of equipment for primary production urban centres of the region equipment Infrastructure and

Markets recognise products brands from Difficulties to enlarge the markets due to the

Economic capital the region; institutional incongruences;

Market Well-connected local producers with the Difficulties with access to new markets markets

Insufficient number of people with practical University centres and nodes of advisory expertise/advisors etc. and their mobility is low services exist in urban centres of the due to lack of assets; 4wd is required for work capital) Region in remote rural areas with bad infrastructure Institutions and support (Institutional

Local entrepreneurs are more and more involved in organising people on both business and non-business level; Local leaders are often leaving the region searching for better jobs Linking is often following supply and value

(Social capital) chains agriculture-processing-tourism Society and organisation

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Capital OPPORTUNITIES THREATS dimension

Lots of raw material in the area which Overexploitation or wrong methodology of is available for adding value through collection of wild fruits might destroy natural

capital) processing before leaving the Region resources (Environmental Natural resources

Elemental work on gastronomic heritage and Making local gastronomic heritage and local products promotion without introduction processing/local products more visible of upgrades required within the scope of food which may attract interest for opening new safety for instance, and the failure on the production lines. market might discourage entrepreneurs (Cultural capital) Cultural resources

High share of young population in the Intensification of outmigration Region (Human capital) Human resources

Speeding up the introduction of new regulations Traditional processing infrastructure is might close facilities with outdated equipment located in the Kosovo* part of the region – and stop production if there is a lack of money cross-border cooperation might help adding for investments in infrastructure and equipment. equipment value This remains a problem Infrastructure and

Economic capital Strong marketing of well-known international Well-known local processed products are products which are competing with local now well promoted Market products

Improved and increased advisory service General trend to standardize the products by provided in the region (decentralised) reducing local particularities capital) Institutions and support (Institutional

Strengthening the local civil sector and their networking in the region with Degradation of family ties and values and additional linking to chambers of commerce destruction of community synergy with and regional development agencies can be outmigration can devastate human resources

(Social capital) of great importance Society and organisation

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SWOT for the thematic priority area: Tourism and gastronomy

Capital STRENGTHS WEAKNESSES dimension

Large natural resources to sustain tourism development; Some of the most attractive natural resources are not easily accessible due to bad road capital) Natural resources allowing diversified infrastructure

(Environmental tourist offer during the year Natural resources

Valuable cultural heritage mainly from medieval times - UNESCO World heritage sites, monasteries, mosques etc.; Intangible cultural heritage not well promoted and accessible Multi-ethnic intangible cultural heritage –

(Cultural capital) folklore, crafts and arts Cultural resources

Existence of vocational education in the Lack of tour operators and receptive agencies area; in the area;

Existence of non-formal trainings in the Lack of professionals linked with the tourist

(Human capital) area development (guide experts, etc.) Human resources

New entrepreneurs in the area, offering diversified tourist services; Small units cannot use economy of scale; Tourist offer not qualified to access high level

equipment markets Clustering of tourist units in the area Infrastructure and

Economic capital Limited market access; Increase of tourist operators interest for the region Market Still fragmented offer

Not clear and not well identified strategic Support schemes provided by public or policies for the mountain area development non-public bodies capital) (harsh competition with seaside tourism) Institutions and support (Institutional

Weak and occasional support is available to Active cultural clubs in rural areas civil society in cultural sector Society and organisation (Social capital)

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Capital OPPORTUNITIES THREATS dimension

Better use of natural resources and of built Overexploitation and climate change reducing heritage the attractive areas capital) (Environmental Natural resources

Improvement of political situation in the Degradation or a blockade of improvements in region might open new possibilities for the political sphere (interethnic relations) might tourism development related to cultural influence further exclusion of cultural heritage sites from development process (Cultural capital) Cultural resources

Important possibility for employing the youth; Depopulation of the area Better integration of the vulnerable society

(Human capital) groups Human resources

Creation of regional cluster offering a Difficulties to maintain the infrastructure in the comparable tourist offer, gathered around a area regional brand equipment Infrastructure and Economic capital Increased interest for alternative tourism Direction toward new markets Market

Possible integration of regional tourist policy of the region (some first steps are Lack of public services in the area

capital) being made) Institutions and support (Institutional

Increased support to cultural clubs and Depopulation is affecting cultural heritage organisations in the region and to those as well as lack of support to civil society in urban inland areas and maritime tourist organisations; centres, this might help cultural heritage of The most endangered is the cultural heritage of the region to influence positively tourism the mountain rural communities (Social capital) development Society and organisation

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Detailed SWOT analysis through thematic areas done by the stakeholders

A detailed SWOT analysis is done in the same manner, by observing the following aspects: Natural resources (Environmental capital), Cultural resources (Cultural capital), Human resources (Human capital), Infrastructure, equipment and market (Economic capital), Institutions and support (Institutional capital) and Society and organisation (Social capital).

The group of interested parties was divided into 4 working groups which covered previously identified thematic priority areas. The members of SHG voluntary selected the group in which they decided to participate. One group covered the primary agricultural production, the other one production in forestry, processing was in the third group and the fourth group analysed tourism and gastronomy.

The results of their SWOT analysis by thematic priority areas and accepted developmental aspects are as follows:

Weekend house in “Prokletije- Bjeshkët e Namuna” region

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SWOT for the thematic priority area: Agriculture, animal husbandry, beekeeping (primary production)

Capital STRENGTHS WEAKNESSES dimension Natural capital) resources (Environmental

Tradition (local know-how, fairs); The conflict of generations" (the way of The transfer of knowledge from generation production, uncertainty with innovations) Cultural resources to generation (Cultural capital) (Cultural

The migration of population from rural areas and an aging population; Working age population Undereducated local population; Low interest in professional training (Human capital)

Human resources Insufficient capacity for applying for donor funds

Poor physical infrastructure (either doesn’t exist There is a small agricultural infrastructure or is devastated, the existing is not maintained); (irrigation channels) There are some storage capacities (in certain equipment areas there are none) Infrastructure and

There is no adequate structure for sale of local products;

Economic capital There is a diverse range of healthy and Poor promotion of local products; natural products and the market for them Local products are not protected (geographical Market exist origin) neither branded; Lack of harmonization of standards / protocols for biological / organic production

Lack of planning and agro zoning; Technical abstinence (national, local, specialized etc.); Low local budget for investments in agriculture; Partial existence of professional technical

capital) Financial support through local grants and banks; schools (there is a need for more) and partial Institutions and use of university resources support (Institutional

The existence of association of various agricultural producers Society and organisation (Social capital)

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Capital OPPORTUNITIES THREATS dimension

The degradation and unsustainable exploitation of natural resources; Geographic position; Not declared protected zones and the region is not included in the network of protected areas Possibility for sustainable use of natural and the designation of protected areas; resources Natural resources Natural hazards (changing weather conditions - (Environmental capital) floods, droughts, spontaneous fires) Cultural resources (Cultural capital) (Cultural

Migration of youth; The new cultural patterns of conduct; Dissemination and exchange of experience New agricultural practices for which the necessary knowledge and skills do not exist in

(Human capital) the region Human resources

Possibilities for utilization of foreign funds Lack of master plans for infrastructure for infrastructure; (especially in rural areas); Regional initiatives for joint presentation of Lack of financial support; the region;

equipment Lack of specialized companies for maintenance Possibility for using national funds for and building infrastructure Infrastructure and building rural infrastructure

Economic capital Unstable markets and dependence on foreign markets, with the slow integration into the EU; Unfair competition; Market The economic and banking crisis

Good inter-state relations; Political instability; Programme-oriented funds (state, inter- Priorities change within the region and the state, European and other specialized); region is insufficiently recognized as a priority capital) Introduction of new technologies and at the central level; Regional policy is not

Institutions and experiences harmonized, customs barriers support (Institutional

Assistance and technical support from NGOs, implementing organizations and working groups Society and organisation (Social capital)

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SWOT for the thematic priority area: Forestry and forest products, hunting and fishing (primary production)

Capital STRENGTHS WEAKNESSES dimension Rich flora and fauna - a large number of native species (relict and endemic species); Illegal exploitation of natural resources and Unique ecological destinations (protected hunting of wild animals; environment); Valuable economic resources (forestry, Incomplete inventory of natural resources wood processing, eco-tourism, hunting (forests and forest herbs ); capital) (grouse/chamois) and fishing, gathering and processing of forest products); Vulnerability of individual species (lynx, Awareness about the necessity to protect edelweiss ...) this unique ecosystem;

Natural resources (Environmental Hydrology richness (lakes, rivers)

Traditional handicraft wood processing (production of summer shepherd shelters, capital) Cultural

(Cultural kit, tools, dishes) resources

Low level of training possibilities related to sustainable use of natural resources, ecotourism; Demographic trends (outmigration of the Human

resources population to major cities, labour shortages,

(Human capital) aging population ...) Bad traffic and public utility infrastructure (in urban and rural areas); Absence of integrated waste management (lack of municipal infrastructure for collection, selection, recycling and waste disposal); equipment Incomplete and outdated infrastructure for risk Infrastructure and management (erosion, fires, floods) The local tradition of processing and use of

Economic capital forest products – gastronomy; Absence of regional brand (herbs, blueberries, High demand for forest products and wood truffles, chestnuts ....) Market processing (from MNE to ALB and KOS* - semi-finished products) National Parks (MNE and ALB) (comprehensive protection and preservation); Lack of specific education programs (ecology, Regional/local development centres ecotourism, forestry ...); (Prokletije, Bjelasica, Komovi) (forestry strategy recognized); Local governments (departments of Insufficient support and participation of national forestry/environment); institutions (laws, regulations and standards are not fully implemented at the local level) Scientific and educational institutions (Peja, (Institutional capital) Shkodra, Berane, Rozaje); Institutions and support Subsidies provided by competent ministries (ALB, MNE, KOS*);

Very active NGO sector in the field of ecology (Albanian Alps Alliance, Birding Montenegro) Society and organisation (Social capital)

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Capital OPPORTUNITIES THREATS dimension

Use of renewable energy sources (forest waste - biomass, hydro potential ...); Continued illegal and unplanned use of forests and forest resources (timber and non-timber Sustainable use of forests’ social products...); functions (recreation, hunting, tourism, health...);Preservation of nature Unplanned construction in areas of special (biodiversity, endangered species, Natural resources value

(Environmental capital) ecosystems, natural monuments...)

Violation of traditional values and landscapes (the renovation of old and construction of new

Cultural facilities ...) resources (Cultural capital) (Cultural

Continuation of negative demographic trends; Strengthening regional cooperation Lack of interest of the local population for (economic, institutional) education (in the field of ecology, forestry, rural tourism...) (Human capital) Human resources

Further deterioration of infrastructure due to Construction of infrastructure (forest roads, insufficient maintenance (roads, paths...); ski lifts, trail runs...); Obsolescence of equipment used in the Installation of facilities for processing and

equipment processing and exploitation (environmental storing forest products impact...) Infrastructure and

Economic capital Volatile market for forest products; Creating a regional brand (herbs, blueberries, truffles, chestnuts...) Cooperation between producers/collectors and Market buyers/processors

The establishment of regional co-operation Indifference of institutions for balanced regional among institutions (National Parks, development (focus on intensive agriculture, municipalities, agencies...); while forestry and processing is neglected, also extensive agriculture...); Using funds available for support (EU, national, donor...); Low absorption capacity for available funds (due to lack of capacity and financial

(Institutional capital) Transfer of knowledge and good practice participation of local stakeholders...) Institutions and support Society and organisation (Social capital)

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SWOT for the thematic priority area: Processing of agricultural and forest products

Capital STRENGTHS WEAKNESSES dimension

Primary products (forest, fruit, vegetables), Unused forest products as a fiddle and chestnut plantations in ALB; blueberries, because of disorganization and lack of collectors and buyers (there are only individual collectors who process their own Incorporating inventory of medicinal and products); aromatic plants; Unorganized collection of mushrooms and

Natural resources medicinal and aromatic plants, which are A wealth of forests and water sources (Environmental capital) abundant capital) Cultural (Cultural resources

Educated population of different profiles. Available labour force (ALB);

Human Existence of educational institutions resources (vocational schools and universities) (Human capital)

Bad road infrastructure influencing probability primary products to reach processors; Foreign investment in milk processing facility Malësi e Madhe, ALB; Bad power supply, water supply and sewerage systems in ALB, KOS* parts of the Region; Lack of processors in Tropoja and in the Existence of capacities for milk processing, Montenegrin part of the region; breweries, juices production in Peja (KOS *) Lack of storages, cooling stations and drying facilities for fruits and wild fruits (chestnuts, berries, mushrooms etc.) and medicinal plants Infrastructure and equipment

Lack of promotion and market for meat and dairy Economic capital products; Unfair competition by importers of raw materials for Certification of products from the region juice and jam; (organic, healthy food) in ALB, KOS *, MNE Market Absence of manufacturers of glass packaging; Absence of manufacturers of yeast for the baking industry

National funds to support (MNE, KOS *); Local offices of the Ministry of Agriculture in ALB, in the context of local government in

capital) Montenegro, which are channelling national funds Institutions and support (Institutional Society and organisation (Social capital)

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Capital OPPORTUNITIES THREATS dimension Excessive and unplanned exploitation of forests; A wealth of aromatic and medicinal plants Lack of sustainable resource utilization; Rangelands for the production of honey, milk, meat; Climatic conditions (destructive winds in autumn Natural capital) and spring in the neighbouring municipality of resources Suspension of uncontrolled deforestation

(Environmental Istok in KOS *) capital) Cultural (Cultural resources

Regional cooperation in using available labour since it is unevenly distributed in the same Outmigration of the population to other countries region (MNE - lack, KOS * ALB - excess); (except in Tropoja – where it is stable); Human capital) (Human Labour shortages in MNE High unemployment rate resources Small individual buyers of forest fruits Bad regional road infrastructures The construction of a processing plant for chestnut was started in ALB; Poor electric power supply network and utility infrastructure (power lines, water and sewage With the construction of road infrastructure networks in ALB, KOS *); and the opening of border crossings, to encourage the exchange of products, and the Lack of manufacturing capacities in Tropoje, development of cross-border rural tourism; Albania and Montenegro;

equipment Lack of road infrastructure (Plav - Decani; Lack of capacity for storage and drying and forest Vusanje (Gusinje) - CEREMU (Tropoja); products (refrigerators, dryers, etc.); Infrastructure and Lack of border crossings MNE- ALB-KOS* The lack of facilities for processing chestnuts (storage, drying equipment) in ALB;

Lack of promotion and markets for meat and dairy products; Unfair competition by importers of the raw material for juice and jam production; Lack of manufacturers of glass containers; Absence of yeast manufacturer for the baking industry; Unused forest products (dogwood, blueberries, mushrooms, medicinal and aromatic plants), because of the unorganized collection and lack Potential for export of medicinal and aromatic of interest of buyers (there are only individual plants; collectors, who are processing collected products Economic capital by themselves); There is a need to re-establish cross-border Insufficient utilization of the possibilities for cooperation between producers of primary growing walnuts and low purchase price for walnut

Market ALB (2 EUR / kg); products and fruit and vegetables; Lack of capacity for cooling and drying fruit and berries reduces the possibility for improving Strong demand in the walnut market in KOS * marketing; Lack of processing capacities for meat (although in Montenegro they are needed, due to existence of livestock production); Poor enforcement of food safety standards (in particular for the slaughter of livestock and meat marketing); There is a need for implementing quality standards and food safety (HACCP, ISO, etc.); Insufficient capacity of institutions to control imports (especially the quality of meat products)

National Funds, funds and donors (TIKA) for Little funding available; investment in the agro-food sector Unresolved cadastre and property rights capital) Institutions and support (Institutional (Social capital) Society and organisation

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SWOT for the thematic priority area: Tourism and gastronomy Capital STRENGTHS WEAKNESSES dimension Unique natural beauty, biological and geological diversity; Significant natural resources (important species of flora and fauna); Natural capital)

resources Untouched nature and unexploited /

(Environmental undisturbed ecosystems. capital) Cultural (Cultural resources Education for gastronomy and tourism (schools in Peja, Berane, Plav, Rozaje, Shko- dër); There are professionals for tourism in the municipalities; Positive perception of the population about the importance and need for the development of tourism, especially among the population in

capital) Albania and Kosovo* (Peja Tropja, Malësia a Madhe, Shkodra); Transfer of knowledge and the specifics of the local gastronomy from generation to gen- eration (Slow Food projects - Arc of Taste); Human resources (Human Active civil society in the promotion of tourism in the region and growing investments. Walking and biking trails in the area, fly fishing; Peaks of the Balkans (good experience) - 192 km, Via Dinarica; Circular tour of Valbonesi Theth (walking or riding an animal);

Infrastructure Rehabilitated roads (in Malësi e Madhe and equipment Tropojë, Plav, Gucci) Diverse European tourism market. The dynamic domestic tourism movements (especially between Albania and Kosovo* and Kosovo* and Montenegro) Increased visibility of areas within the region

Economic capital and interest for the area (at the national level and international organizations) Tropojë, General economic difficulties in the region

Market Malësi e Madhe; The offer is available throughout the year (Peja); The first examples of integration of regional tourism products - Peaks of the Balkans - the private sector Development of tourism has been recognized in the priorities of strategic development documents; Possibilities for funding; The existing structures are attractive for tourism development (Nature Park – national and regional); Tourist Information services in all three countries (Kosovo*, Montenegro, Albania); There is a possibility in Montenegro for using capital) IPARD funds; Tourist infrastructure poses no threat to the environment; The existence of organizations that carry trainings related to tradition and local production; Emerging branding of local products

Institutions and support (Institutional (chestnuts and honey) (Social capital) Society and organisation

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Capital OPPORTUNITIES THREATS dimension Lack of wastewater treatment and lack of mecha- nisms for reusing treated wastewater; Illegal fishing and hunting, illegal logging; Degradation of landscapes by building hydropow- Ban on game hunting in Albania; er systems; Weak control system; Ban on forests exploitation in Albania

capital) Climate change causing degradation of natural resources;

(Environmental Degradation of pastures is causing decrease in Natural resources biodiversity which reduces the attractiveness of the pastures

Loss of intangible heritage due to depopulation capital) Cultural (Cultural resources

High level of education of the civil sector; Social changes - open minded cooperating Depopulation Human capital) society (Human resources

Lack of public investment at the local level; Not sufficiently integrated/linked walking and riding trails in the region; No adequate infrastructure at the initial points of touring paths; Infrastructure for cultural, historical and adventure tourism; equipment Unfinished sections of roads hamper

Infrastructure and communication between countries; Gaps in awareness/recognizing the importance of tourist security The tourist market of Montenegro is not dynamic; The quality of the offer is not in correlation with the increasingly demanding tourist market; Tourists who are coming by plane to the sea are not interested in the mountains; the focus is on the development of coastal tourism and not Economic capital the mountain one (the product portfolio is not developed); The openness of markets in the region/ Large inflow of tourists during July and August market opening (from the diaspora in Plav, Tropoje and Malesia

Market e Madhe);The tourist offer of the region is not sufficiently integrated (no links between tourism and local products supply chain and in the in the tourism value chain) Directional and targeted tourist offer Strong competition between similar destinations that offer tourism products: mountains, tourism of special interest and others with the same tourist offer

Cross border cooperation of the competent authorities between the states; Restrictive border procedures for integrated cross-border tourism (tourism region comprising 3 EU funds and/or funding from other available countries); funds; Lack of integration and cooperation between Joint management of protected areas; rescue services in the mountain region and civil Increase in international travel insecurity protection; Local strategic document not sufficiently harmonized with the national; (Institutional capital)

Institutions and support Offices/information points are not sufficiently developed (Social capital) Society and organisation

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As shown in other established cross-border regions, according to SHG, the SWOT exercise in the Region is also showing that sector approach to development is not a good option. It is fully in accordance with the basic concept of Area Based Development. The approach required is an intervention in multiple sectors, i.e. economic, social, environmental etc., while mobilizing as many stakeholders as possible, and they should fully cooperate. At the same time, interventions must take place at all levels. For that purpose capacities for action in sustainable regional rural development should be increased in the whole region and in concerted manner social and institutional capital should be upgraded in order to speed-up the Region`s integrated development. As suggested in strategies of previously established cross-border regions, improvement of the following key capabilities/skills is needed, as much as engagement of skilful local professionals in the Region:

1. Skills which are necessary to build up area’s competitiveness. Those skills include skills to assess their environment, skills to plan and take joint actions and skills to create links between sectors and regional stakeholders internally by ensuring that maximum added value is retained. 2. Skills which are necessary to promote the region and its offer and liaise with neighbours and other regions and the rest of the external world. 3. Continuous upgrade of skills through formal and non-formal education, training of trainers and strengthening the educational system including its networking within the Region, within the West Balkans, the wider EU region and the rest of the world.

The last group of skills was specially emphasized for the first time in Western Balkan cross-border regions, which is an obvious influence of the presence of representatives from academia in the work of the SHG. It is obvious that contribution of scholars in development of rural areas is very important, regardless whether they belong to public or private sectors. The proposed approach, which is to provide inputs for strategic planning through diverse exercising of triangulation between local expert, stakeholders group and wider public is showing capacity to provide more ideas and better coverage of views, and also to provide indication which of the expressed ideas have wider support. Therefore, priorities were identified by compiling all proposals from 3 sources, and actions were defined by obtaining an agreement from all three actors. All groups were looking for projects allowing initiatives of each group, and of each individual stakeholder to be offered to other groups or stakeholders across the border to get an agreement and a partner for its implementation. This activity was exercised during the 3rd meeting, but it also continued in the same manner between the 3rd and the 4th meeting, causing more project proposals to be included in the strategic document. In this process it was obvious that SHG should be expanded to include more decision makers and financial experts, including those from the fund raising branch, local budget holders, national administration and representatives from the credits market, on national and on international level. This leads us to think that the Regional strategy at a certain point should be presented to a wider public in a form of donor conference or similar event.

8.3 PRIORITY NEEDS AND DEVELOPMENT PRIORITIES The strategic planning includes identification of priority (critical) needs and development (programme) priorities. The results of the SWOT were used for identification of development priorities and priority needs and they were delegated according to the possibilities for solutions on local, regional and national/international portfolios/levels.

The priority needs were defined by three sources: experts, stakeholders and validation questionnaires. Majority of them are just priority needs of single segments, but in their true nature they are complex development priorities which can’t be completed in a short period of time in a single action, but need long term activities to develop. The priority needs defined by stakeholders are:

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Priority needs in the thematic priority area: Agriculture, animal husbandry, beekeeping, as identified by stakeholders Out of SWG Need Locally Nationally Regionally mandate Agro zoning X Protection and product branding X X

Priority needs in the thematic priority area: Forestry and forest’s products, as identified by stakeholders Out of SWG Need Locally Nationally Regionally mandate Capacity building and training on sustainable use of natural resources for the local administration / public X X sector / private sector of the economy Improving the curricula in local educational institutions X (forestry, eco-tourism and environment) Integrated waste management in rural areas X X Regional branding of local high quality products X X X (specialties and traditional food deriving from forests)

Priority needs in the thematic priority area: Processing of agricultural and forest’s products, as identified by stakeholders Out of SWG Need Locally Nationally Regionally mandate Technical assistance for strengthening the capacity of X X X processors (innovative products, new technologies)

Financial assistance for investments in processing X

Priority needs in the thematic priority area: Tourism, as identified by stakeholders Out of SWG Need Locally Nationally Regionally mandate

Simplification of border procedures X

Establishment of a Committee for integration and X harmonization of the tourist offer Consolidation of rescue services and development of X X X common security mechanisms in tourism

Improving connectivity in the region X X

Providing infrastructure for camping X

Unification of tourist signs X X

Creating a common calendar of events in the region X X

Licensing mountain guides X

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Priority needs defined by experts:

Priority needs in the thematic priority area: Agriculture, animal husbandry, beekeeping, as identified by experts Out of SWG Need Locally Nationally Regionally mandate

Improving agricultural production technology X X

Empowering farmers associations for approaching X X markets Improving the farmers knowledge on modern technology X X X and marketing

Priority needs in the thematic priority area: Forestry and forest’s products, as identified by experts Out of SWG Need Locally Nationally Regionally mandate Coordinated cross-border prevention of hazards such X as forest fires, torrent flows, floods etc.

Priority needs in the thematic priority area: Processing of agricultural and forest’s products, as identified by experts Out of SWG Need Locally Nationally Regionally mandate Strengthening the supply chain through the use of local X X products

Linking local production with tourism sector X X

Priority needs in the thematic priority area: Tourism, as identified by experts Out of SWG Need Locally Nationally Regionally mandate

Integration of local products in the tourist offer X X

Improving the quality of services (service providers) X X

Using existing houses for tourism purposes X X

Integrating tourism offer at the regional level X X

Diversification of the tourism offer X X

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The priority needs defined by validation questionnaires are:

Priority needs in the thematic priority area: Agriculture, animal husbandry, beekeeping, as identified in validation questionnaires Out of SWG Need Locally Nationally Regionally mandate

Strengthening farmers' organizations X X

Integration of local agricultural products in the tourist X X offer

Improving agricultural technology in the region X X

Priority needs in the thematic priority area: Forestry and forest’s products, as identified in validation questionnaires Out of SWG Need Locally Nationally Regionally mandate Integration of local non-food and forest products in the tourist offer

Priority needs in the thematic priority area: Processing of agricultural and forest’s products, as identified in validation questionnaires Out of SWG Need Locally Nationally Regionally mandate

Improvement of processing technology and marketing X X

Strengthening the supply chain through the use of local X X products

Simplifying border crossing procedures X

Priority needs in the thematic priority area: Tourism, as identified in validation questionnaires Out of SWG Need Locally Nationally Regionally mandate

Filling gaps with missing local services X X

Improving the quality of services X X X

Creating a regional tourism brand X X

Integrating tourism offer at the regional level X X

Diverting tourism priorities at the national level X

Diversification of the tourist offer of the region X X

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The selection of priority needs was made in order to identify the critical needs of rural communities which must be met in a short period of time to ensure survival and the start of the development processes. They are related to present weaknesses, use of opportunities and minimization of risks arising from weakness rather than to those that are present due to internal or external factors, or of deliberate intervention.

To be able to meet the priority needs of the Region related to external positive environment and impact – certain actions should be undertaken. This set of priority actions is summarized in the priority area titled:

The first priority needs area: Influencing national levels to provide more favourable external environment intended to increase possibilities in the region through:

• Introduction of LFA areas (rather than doing agro zoning as proposed) • Introducing agro-environmental and diversification support measures into rural development policies to support investments in all economic sectors (additional criteria providing an advantage to mountain areas are more than welcome) • Diverting tourism priorities at the national level to mountain areas, or at least giving more attention and support to development of tourism and corresponding infrastructure to mountain rural areas

The second priority needs area: Improvement of the infrastructure (business environment) including safeguarding resources and people in the Region. It is the priority area for the following needs:

• Improving connectivity in the region • Introduction of integrated waste management in rural areas • Coordinated cross-border prevention of hazards such as forest fires, torrent flows, floods etc. • Consolidation of rescue services and development of common security mechanisms in tourism • Regional licensing of mountain guides • Unification of tourist signs • Providing infrastructure for camping • Simplifying border crossing procedures

The third priority needs area is: Capacity building for human resources to deal with sustainable development issues within their sectors or generally. The priority needs comprising this topic are:

• Improving the curricula in local educational institutions (forestry, eco-tourism and environment) • Capacity building and training on sustainable use of natural resources for the local administration / public sector / private sector of the economy • Improving the farmers’ knowledge about production and marketing etc. • Technical assistance for strengthening the capacity of processors to adopt new technologies and switch to innovative products • Increasing capacity of service providers to improve quality of services • Strengthening farmers' organizations

Certain urgent activities in this respect will also require national level intervention, but basically these priority needs should be met on local and regional level. Even when the need is set on local level, working on it is of a regional interest or could have a regional dimension. For instance, strengthening of farmers organisations is happening within entities registered in one of countries, but the way to strengthen them could be through regional integration or cooperation.

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The fourth priority needs area is: Bringing in innovations to add value to regional economy. This area includes the following priority needs:

• Protection and regional branding of high quality products and services in the Region • Diversification of the tourist offer of the region • Strengthening value chains in the region (integration of local products into the tourist offer or strengthening the tourism supply chain by using local products/or vice versa, by selling local products through the short value chain of local tourism) • Integrating tourist offer at the regional level including priority needs such as:

• Establishing a Committee for integration and harmonization of the tourist offer • Creating a regional tourism brand • Creating a common calendar of events in the region

Finally, local priority needs are related to interventions which are occurring on individual property. Despite the fact that if they are faced and met, these priority needs will positively influence rural development of the region, they are by their nature local. These priorities are related more or less to investments in all sectors of local economy starting with agriculture and forestry, processing and marketing, as well as tourism and services:

• Using existing houses for tourism purposes • Improving agricultural production technology • Improving processing technology and marketing • Financial assistance for investments in primary production, processing and services

Therefore, these are not going to be directly subject to regional rural economy development strategy and actions, but will benefit from activities targeting capacity building and financed through national and EU funds intended to support the national level.

As already mentioned, some of the identified priority needs are inseparable from the development priorities, and their meaning can be seen only if they are built on development activities. Thus, for example the region may, with the joint commitment of all three countries, build a system for prevention of natural hazards such as to establish new institutions or bodies in a short period of time, but its activation and efficiency needs long term engagement to become operative. In this respect, the division of the priority needs and development priorities should be considered conditional, and their implementation requires long-term planning.

For the purpose of rationalization, we have used triangulation to identify few regional priority needs which are to be met within this strategy:

• Inclusion of the Region into LFAs of the respective countries, bringing the Region on the national priorities lists for development of tourism and simplifying cross-border procedures • Improving the curricula in local educational institutions • Establishing a committee for integration and harmonization of the tourist offer • Establishing regional programme for licensing regional mountain guides and creating regional tourist events list.

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Development priorities:

The development priorities defined by stakeholders are:

Development priorities in the thematic priority area: Agriculture, animal husbandry, beekeeping, as identified by stakeholders Out of SWG Development priority Locally Nationally Regionally mandate

Construction of agricultural infrastructure X X

Connecting the various sectors –agriculture, processing X and tourism Improving marketing and adding value to primary X X products

Development priorities in the thematic priority area: Forestry and forest’s products, as identified by stakeholders Out of SWG Development priority Locally Nationally Regionally mandate Cross-border networking of civil sector and small X X businesses Strengthening cooperation between the administrations of protected areas - transfer of knowledge and good X X practices

Integrated management of trans boundary waters X X

Development priorities in the thematic priority area: Processing of agricultural and forest’s products, as identified by stakeholders Out of SWG Development priority Locally Nationally Regionally mandate Establishing cooperation between the stakeholders / X X X actors in the value chain

Branding of regions and products X X X

Strengthening regional cooperation X

Priority needs in the thematic priority area: Tourism, as identified by experts Out of SWG Development priority Locally Nationally Regionally mandate Analysis of the tourist offer and standardization of its quality in X the region

Identification and valorisation of culinary values X

Improvement of housing in rural areas and improving the X X quality of services

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Joint tourist offers and promotions X

Customization of vocational education to meet needs in X X X tourism Development of thematic routes which present regional X biodiversity, lakes, cultural values, tourism

Development of cultural tourism and tourism in general X X X

Branding the region, such as. adventure tourism destinations X

The development priorities defined by experts are:

Development priorities in the thematic priority area: Agriculture, animal husbandry, beekeeping, as identified by experts Out of SWG Development priority Locally Nationally Regionally mandate

Focusing on highly profitable production X X

Integrating local products in the regional brand X

Development priorities in the thematic priority area: Forestry and forest’s products, as identified by experts Out of SWG Development priority Locally Nationally Regionally mandate Development of an efficient joint monitoring and control system for forest resources in the region with shared X protocols and permanent exchange of information

Development priorities in the thematic priority area: Processing of agricultural and forest’s products, as identified by experts Out of SWG Development priority Locally Nationally Regionally mandate Adding value to local agricultural products within the X X region

Development of a regional brand (product) X X

Development priorities in the thematic priority area: Tourism, as identified by experts Out of SWG Development priority Locally Nationally Regionally mandate

Creating the regional brand X

Diversification of the tourism offer X X

Integrating regional producers in the tourism offer X

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The development priorities defined in the validation questionnaires are:

Development priorities in the thematic priority area: Agriculture, animal husbandry, beekeeping, as identified in validation questionnaires Out of SWG Development priority Locally Nationally Regionally mandate Focusing on production systems which are providing X X higher profit given the environment (resources frame)

Integration of agricultural products in the regional brand X

Development priorities in the thematic priority area: Forestry and forest’s products, as identified in validation questionnaires Out of SWG Development priority Locally Nationally Regionally mandate

n.a.

Development priorities in the thematic priority area: Processing of agricultural and forest’s products, as identified in validation questionnaires Out of SWG Development priority Locally Nationally Regionally mandate

Creating a common regional brand X X

Improvement of utilization of local raw materials to X X increase regional supply

Development priorities in the thematic priority area: Tourism, as identified in validation questionnaires Out of SWG Development priority Locally Nationally Regionally mandate

Creating a joint tourist offer of the region X

Creating a regional tourism brand X

Long-term diversification of tourist services x x

The next step was to select the development priority areas (groups of development priorities) which will be subject to further work. The results from the SWOT analysis performed on the previously identified priority sectors: forestry including hunting and fishing, primary agriculture production and wild collection, processing and tourism were the basis for further discussions and planning. In addition, the priorities identified by the SHG, the experts and in the validation questionnaires were considered.

The development priorities, those identified by experts and those deriving from validation questionnaires were triangulated in order to identify three priority areas. All development priorities were grouped into 3 priority areas:

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• Capacity building (for sustainable regional rural development) • Strengthening value chains • Marketing and promotion

Rationship development priorities and the main features of the region

Development Some of addressed Some of addressed priority area strengths opportunities

Assistance and technical support from Unemployed working age population NGOs, implementing organizations and working groups

Dissemination and exchange of Traditional local know-how experience; transfer of knowledge and Capacity building for good practice sustainable regional rural development The existence of association of various Illegal exploitation of natural resources agricultural producers and hunting wild animals

Presence of scientific and educational institutions (Peja, Shkodra, Berane, Social changes - open minded Rozaje…- vocational schools and cooperating society universities). The existence of NGOs that carry out trainings related to traditional and local production.

Significant natural resources (important species of flora and fauna); Untouched Introduction of new technologies nature and unexploited / undisturbed ecosystems

Valuable economic resources; A wealth of Subsidies provided by competent forests and water sources ministries Strengthening value chains Traditional handicraft wood processing; The local tradition of processing and use The use of renewable energy sources of forest products - gastronomy

The first examples of integration of Sustainable use of forests social regional tourism products functions Positive perception of the population The existence of processing capacities in about the importance and the need for the some parts of the Region development of tourism There is a diverse range of healthy and Regional initiatives for joint presentation natural products and the market for them of the region exist Diverse European tourism market Good interstate relations

Marketing and High demand for forest products and promotion wood processing (from MNE to ALB Dynamics of the domestic tourism market and KOS* -in a form of semi-finished products)

Emerging branding of local products Potential for export of medicinal and (chestnuts and honey) aromatic plants

Creating a regional brand (herbs, The offer is available throughout the year blueberries, truffles, chestnuts ...)

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Based on the identified priority areas, the SHG members were grouped into 3 working groups, in which the participants identified the priority actions and created action plans. After that, the SHG members were focused on identification of priority project ideas focusing on capacity building, people to people actions and development projects, based on which within the working groups, priority project concepts were developed.

8.4 DETERMINATION OF THE SPECIFIC OBJECTIVES (GOALS) AND VISION

Priority area: Capacity building (for sustainable regional rural development) Groups of Objectives Strengthening Improvement of cooperation Networking of Capacity building Improvement of the field logistics between stakeholders and knowledge extension service especially security institutions (development) transfer of tourists (management)

• Cooperation • Strengthen regional • Improvement • Adaptation • Establishment between the cooperation of agricultural of vocational of services that administrations of • Cross-border infrastructure education to the support the protected areas networking of • Technical needs in tourism development of • Integrated stakeholders assistance for • Analysis of the tourism (lifeguards) management of strengthening tourist offer and • Consolidation of trans boundary the capacity standardization of rescue services waters and floods of processors its quality in the and development of prevention (innovative region a common security • Forests protection products, new • Improvement of mechanism in technologies) accommodation tourism • Improvement in rural areas and • Unification of tourist of farmers' improvement of signs organizations quality of services • Improving marketing • Improving agricultural technology • Capacity building on sustainable use of natural resources

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Priority area: Strengthening value chains Groups of Objectives Raising standards in production Linking tourism with primary Diversification of the tourism offer and services production and processing

• Creating a set of standards for a • Use of local raw materials to • Long-term diversification of tourist new regional brand according to increase regional supply services actual demand and local capacities • Integration of local agricultural • Diversification of the tourism offer for improvements products in the regional tourist • Development of cultural tourism • Introduction of food safety and other brand • Identification and valorisation of the required standards in production • Focusing on highly profitable gastronomic values and services production • Development of thematic routes • Increasing price and quality • Linking the various sectors which present regional biodiversity, competitiveness in primary • Establishment of cooperation lakes, cultural values production and processing between the actors / stakeholders in • Use of existing houses in rural the value chain areas for tourism purpose • Integration of regional producers in the tourism offer • Adding value to primary products

Priority area: Marketing and promotion Groups of Objectives Development of quality brand and improvement of integrated supplyof regionally branded products and Creation of joint offer and promotion services

• Branding of products and the region • Establishment of a Committee for integration and • Branding the region as a destination for adventure harmonization of the tourism offer tourism • Creation of joint tourist offer for the region • Joint tourist offers and promotions • Improvement of Farmers Cooperative Market

Vision for the region

After performing the SWOT analysis, the discussion was directed towards defining the development vision for the region. This is how the region is seen to be in the future:

• A mountain region with rich diversity of natural and cultural resources, hospitable, unique experience for travellers • A region for ecotourism in all seasons, for sports tourism, special interests (extreme sports), and a region with marked trails, constructed trails for skiing and winter sports • Developed eco-tourist destination of regional character with excellent offer - an attractive region for tourists • Region „Prokletije- Bjeshkët e Namuna” is recognised tourist destination that cherishes the principles of sustainable development, where future generations have full chance to reap the benefits of natural resources on the same or if possible a higher level in comparison to present • Clean and preserved region where people live from agriculture and tourism, and guests enjoy the beautiful nature, domestic food, the hospitality of the local population

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• European Centre • An area of protected natural values (Blessed P-BN Mt. and Park of Peace) • A region where countries have good cooperation and address common and similar problems together, also appearing jointly on the market • Improved road and utility infrastructure, raised awareness on waste, recycling, waste water management and sustainable development • A region where the distinctive healthy food, in accordance with the current demands of the market (standards and geographical origin) is offered - a brand is created • Developed, attractive and promising region – A mountain of friendship and life

Summary of all this in the vision for the region:

• In 10 years the „Prokletije - Bjeshket e Namuna“ Region is the region of friendships, recognized in the wider region of the Balkans and in Europe for its wild beauty, youthful attractiveness and ancient wisdom. • The region is blessed with clean nature, living traditions and healthy food that is trusted. • It is a region where young people are happy to live and where one comes looking for experience.

The definition of the regional vision was the starting point to detailed planning. Inputs from the stakeholders were used by the ABD project team for drafting the strategic framework as a basis for discussion on the next SHG meeting.

Based on the defined vision, SHG members have identified action plans and list of proposed projects.

8.5 ACTION PLANNING

An action plan was developed for every priority area, based on identified development priorities (specific objectives). The specific objectives are directly based on opportunities. A link between development priorities and specific objectives

Specific objectives Development priorities to be considered

The local capacity for dealing with sustainable regional Capacity building for sustainable regional rural rural development is built among human resources and in development institutions

Strengthened value chains in primary production, Strengthening value chains processing and tourism

Marketing and promotion of the region and its economy is improved through regional cross-border cooperation and Improving marketing and promotion joint actions

Within each specific target group members from interested parties have defined the activities to be undertaken in the framework of the strategy. Actions are briefly described through the definition of the main objective, explained and placed in the appropriate box. The person proposing the action

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explained what existing resources are needed to achieve the objectives, what is the existing and adequate funding needed, and the total amount of money that is needed to achieve the objective. At the end, limitations and risks are also mentioned, as well as strategies for mitigating risks.

Action plans are indicative preliminary plans. They provide a framework for the execution of concrete actions. Estimation of costs for planned action is indicative. Yet to complete strategic planning it was fundamentally necessary to define and describe the actions. Budgets should be defined on the basis of existing resources which is hard to do in the given circumstances. During further implementation of the Strategy in the following 10 years, the success in attracting funds in comparison to the real costs of actions implemented will also be an indicator for evaluating the Strategy.

Within the following action plans, SHG members have ordered and defined individual actions, but failed to specify their own participation, as it is expected that most of the funds will be provided from external sources of funding which are considered acceptable. This means that those amounts are completely subject to fund raising. The expected sources of funding for implementation of the activities are prerequisite for implementation of any activities. The responsibility for raising funds as well as for the implementation of the action plan depends on the local authorities and other partners in the group of stakeholders. The role of the SWG RRD is at least to provide technical assistance in the strategic process and, if possible, to influence the fund raising process for the implementation of the Strategic document in the region.

Action plans are presented in 3 tables for easier tracking of each action under one of the 3 relevant specific objectives identified under the general objective: Developed rural economy of the „Prokletije - Bjeshket e Namuna“ Region.

The following actions are identified within the 3 specific goals:

1. Local capacity is built for dealing with sustainable regional rural development using the human resources and institutions from the region

• Networking of tour-operators and coordination of tourist offers and trainings for improvement of the general tourist offer • Development of teaching modules for licencing mountain guides and rescue service • Harmonizing extension service actions to respond to farmer needs • Organising farmers / development of cooperative relations • Building regional structures for harmonised joint actions for capacity building

2. Strengthened value chains \in primary production, processing and tourism

• Linking regional production and processing in short value chain with tourism • Diversification of the tourist offer • Raising quality standards/introduction of brands

3. Marketing and promotion of the region and its economy improved through regional cross- border cooperation and joint actions

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ACTION PLAN Specific objective 1 –Local capacity of human resources and institutions for dealing with sustainable regional rural development is built

SPECIFIC RESOURCES FRAMEWORK LIMITATION JUSTIFICATION CONDITIONS AND GENERAL FINANCIAL DEADLINE FOR MITIGATION ESPONSIBILITIES IMPLEMENTATION of risks MAIN (Related MAIN GOAL Existing Non existing ACTIONS (related to (Institutional Amount to threats/ related to related to Source of opportunities) organisation for of fund (Months) obstacles (Strategy) strengths of weaknesses possible funding implementing needed and risks) the region of the region actions)

Networking of Increase of Improved Legal frameworks Large Lack of Public funds 12-18 months Large Virtual tour-operators cooperation regional for cross-border number coordination Diaspora (it‘s distance networking- and coordination of various cooperation movement of of tourist and different necessary to between communication of tourist offers actors Strengthening people operators levels of work with them) operators - Internet

and trainings for including local formal education development 50.000 EUR to refocus their and service improvement entrepreneurs for improving Tourism laws exist Important contribution providers; Own financing of the general providing skills development from religious - overtaking tourist offer services Relaxing border Tourist trend of the objects to Infrastructure ownership by regimes (free organisations sector development problems local actors movement of and private Foreign people-free entrepreneurs donations (IPA Long term borders zones) and other EU financing Chambers of sources, GIZ, of networks commerce WWF, ADA) – and their Montenegro, coordination operations Kosovo*, Albania needed Contribution: NGOs dealing local funds with tourism and – local environment administration, national parks, national level (limited)

Development Improving Increasing Collaboration Tourist Lack of ERASMUS + 24+ months Difficulties Preparatory of teaching touristic quality of tourist between Peja sector in the coordinated to integrate work with local modules for service in the services University region is and on regional and national Foreign licencing Region (department for developing qualitative level across institutions donations (IPA mountain tourism, formal guides and national and other EU guides and education, but rescue 100.000 EUR borders sources, GiZ, rescue not licencing service WWF, ADA) – services and directly, Ministry coordination development of Education needed of tourist is accrediting guiding programs for services – education) and the classic tourism Faculty in Berane – culture, mature, In cooperation with special profile Universities out of – education, the region – Tirana science i Shkodra, Budva Fac. for tourism for ◊ instance.

Harmonizing Increase the Lack of Collaboration with High value Farmers Public funds 36+ months Difficulties Coordination extension extension appropriate public extension products are are not well to integrate on national service actions service interventions of service produced in informed public level; Foreign to respond to efficiency in the extension the region extension SWG RRD donations farmer needs the Region service which are service assistance attractive for through the market ministries

Organising Help farmers Improving Customs and Fragmented Development 24+ months Customs farmers / access access to Chambers of and weak funds border intensification markets markets for small Commerce market procedures of cross-border farmers

cooperation 50.000 EUR Farmers (primary Relaxing organisations production- cross-border processing) movement of goods for better use of capacities and raw materials (dairies in MNE, production of milk in Albania)

Building Coordination Local common Foreign regional of actions public authorities donations structure -network for Local harmonised 20.000 EUR administration joint actions for capacity building also leading initiatives such as Peaks of Balkans

◊ Licensing to be legalised/internationally defined and recognised. Licencing of Mt. Guides is legally defined in Montenegro, GSS is institutionally responsible in Montenegro. To be checked with Albania and Kosovo* about their legal frameworks and responsibilities. NP were giving licences for their territories to experienced mountaineers in MNE. Kosovo* is giving licences for tourist guides through the Ministry for Tourism. Mt.club Djeravica is issuing licences for mt.guiding, services and mountain rescue, they have licences within their Mt.club, not nationally.

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ACTION PLAN Specific objective 2 – Strengthened value chains in primary production, processing and tourism

JUSTIFICATION SPECIFIC RESOURCES FRAMEWORK ON LIMITATION CONDITIONS AND GENERAL FINANCIAL DEADLINE FOR MITIGATION of MAIN ESPONSIBILITIES IMPLEMENTATION risks MAIN GOAL (related to Existing Non existing ACTIONS Amount Source of (Related to opportunities) (Institutional related to related to of fund possible threats/obstacles organisation for strengths of weaknesses of the (Months/Years) (Strategy) needed funding and risks) implementing the region region actions)

Cooperation for Sustainable National Outmigration Linking improving quality use of available parks Insufficient regional of all three resources, knowledge of production Mountain sectors, increase opening of new professionals and trails of income, markets, Bad road processing in providing existence of Natural infrastructure short value greater certainty institutions and resources Underdeveloped chain with in marketing organisations local agriculture tourism Traditions products which might help market this process, Active civil Underdeveloped existence of sector processing funds supporting Legal connected to cross border framework local brands activities of this Customs Positive kind procedures experiences Legal with tourism Branch ministries frameworks are and trends Balancing not harmonized on tourist economic Local authorities Bad promotion of market Natural activities with local products disasters/ available natural Relevant Human risks Climate change resources development Non-human risks Local Prevention and agencies In phases: Legal-property budgets Economic crisis early warning rights Regulation system Formal and non- Short-term 1-2 year National Competences Protection formal associations Midterm 2-5 years. budges of domestic Long-term 5-10 Diversification Conservation Sustainable use Natural Lack of Too quick products of nature and Educational years of the tourist of resources attractions infrastructure EU funds implementation Establishing offer traditions through institutions their valorisation Wildlife and Lack of of the Acquis a fund for biodiversity knowledge communitarie increasing Private sector competitiveness Cultural Lack of Protection of and insurance Chambers of diversity information biodiversity Conquering new from natural risks markets commerce (ethno, on adventure gastronomy) tourism Increasing income Potential for Lack of adventure accommodation tourism Increasing Using available There is no regional funds and human Positive tourist offer competitiveness resources attitude throughout the of local year population Lack of human Increased resources interest in Hunting and adventure fisheries are not tourism developed Potential to extend the season

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ACTION PLAN Specific objective 3 – Marketing and promotion of the region and its economy is improved through regional cross-border cooperation and joint actions

SPECIFIC RESOURCES JUSTIFICATION FRAMEWORK LIMITATION CONDITIONS AND GENERAL FINANCIAL DEADLINE FOR MITIGATION of MAIN (related to ESPONSIBILITIES IMPLEMENTATION risks MAIN GOAL Existing Non existing ACTIONS opportunities) Amount Source of (Related to (Institutional related to related to of fund possible threats/obstacles organisation for strengths of weaknesses of the (Months/Years) (Strategy) needed funding and risks) implementing the region region actions)

Improvement of Natural Municipal tourist Natural Regional 3 years Weather Involving all Promotion rural economy resources: organisations resources rescue teams conditions interested parties of adventure and prevention of mountains, rivers, cooperation tourism migration through lakes, biodiversity National parks Climate change cross-border authorities Human Equipping trails SWG RRD 500.000 EUR cooperation on Human resources Reluctance development of resources: Ministries Competition of authorities

joint adventure guides, rangers, International donors (regulations) tourism service providers Infrastructure Economic situation Infrastructural resources: trails, paths, visitor centres

Comparative advantage: virgin highlands, undiscovered wonders

Branding of Raising quality The modern NGOs Prokletije/ Regulation of 5 years Lack of financial Establishing a regional tourist standards consumer is Bjeshket competences support, body for this kind offer and through looking for the Private operators - e namuna of action based products. introduction of proof that he Hotels, pensions, Mountains Economic crisis on public-private brands will have certain restaurants, agro have a wide Communication partnerships high quality tourism spread image equipment experience. of wild, Increasing Consumers Educational attractive, attractiveness of expect to get this institutions pristine the local offer proof in advance, natural so they look for a area, so all Increasing brand as a proof products visibility of the of uniformity and or a tourist local offer quality they can offer from expect the region could benefit from this reputation

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The Action plan is sufficiently concrete, so it is not necessary to additionally rationalize it. For that reason the specific objectives could be raised to the level of general objectives and the specific objectives named after the activities proposed, are regrouped according to similarities. This will provide better organization and easily would lead to concrete measures / areas / interventions that should be appropriate for the problems to be addressed.

The following specific objectives and actions will be included in thefirst general objective - Local capacity of human resources and institutions is improved for dealing with sustainable regional rural development:

Specific objectives Actions

New programmes for transfer of Designing teaching modules for licencing mountain guides and rescue services knowledge are developed

Harmonizing extension service actions to respond to farmer needs Regional structures are built that correspond to shared needs for capacity building Building regional structures for harmonised joint actions for capacity building

Networking tour-operators and coordination of tourist offer and trainings for improving touristic offer Strengthened cooperation in the business sector Organising farmers / intensified cooperation

The following specific objectives and custom actions are summarized in thesecond general objective: Strengthened value chains in primary production, processing and tourism

Specific objectives Actions

Multisector value chains are Linking in short value chains regional production and processing with tourism created

Increased competitiveness of Diversification of the tourist offer multisector value chains

The following specific objectives and custom actions are summarized in thethird general objective: Marketing and promotion of the region and its economy is improved through regional cross-border cooperation and joint actions:

Specific objectives Actions

Increased visibility of the local offer Promotion of adventure tourism of products and services

Improved marketing of products Branding of the regional tourist offer and products and services

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8.6 STRATEGIC MATRIX

The final step in the strategic planning was the development of the strategic matrix. All priorities will be implemented through series of defined measures/ areas of intervention which will be directed towards identified priority needs and development priorities.

Explanation of the intervention, expected results and targeted problem area

Measure No. Measure/Intervention area Problems addressed and expected results

M 1 Building local capacity for dealing with sustainable regional rural development within human resources and institutions

Lack of mountain guides and rescue services. Low level of tourist security and general tourist services. Increased security Developing new programmes for M.1.1. and assistance to tourists are expected to transfer of knowledge attract interest of not just adventurists, but also of other categories of guests such as older population, families, children etc.

Existing extension services do not respond to farmers’ needs. If improved, business development in the region might speed up its development.

The need for capacity building exists Building regional structures throughout the Region. Institutions, M 1.2. corresponding to shared needs for organisations and individuals capable to capacity building do capacity building are scattered around the region and none of them is completely capable to cover all needs expressed. Regional harmonised capacity building might save financial assets and provide instantly implementable knowledge, since expertise comes from the region.

Service providers do not cooperate in the region, but act individually. Tour-operators dealing with receptive tourism are rare, the tourist offer is not organised well and Strengthening cooperation in the trainings for improving tourist offer are M 1.3. business sector missing. Also farmers do not cooperate although they are mainly small. Their vertical cooperation with processors is also weak and reduced to simple seller-buyer relation

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M 2 Strengthened value chains in primary production, processing and tourism

Regional production and processing is not connected well with the tourism sector. For that reason small producers can’t compete on the market or their access to markets is limited. Multisector value chains which M.2.1. Creating multisector value chains are of a local or regional kind are providing possibility to make short value chains and provide local market for primary and secondary products. Short value chains are more competitive and offer space for enriching the offer.

Local and regional tourist offer is simple and fails to use all available potentials and resources.

Local resources are utilized for raw materials without any added value.

Tourist offer is incomplete since it almost regularly fails to use the advantage of the existing local traditional products. Increasing competitiveness of M.2.2. multisector value chains Local markets are poor and provide little space for marketing local products.

Diversification can help to add value to raw products, or even create new tourist products such as gastro tourism. More natural resources offer possibility for developing new branches of tourism to offer. Improving quality in some segments of production and services might positively influence all segments in the chain.

M 3 Marketing and promotion of the region and its economy improved through regional cross-border cooperation and joint actions Opportunities for adventure tourism in the region not sufficiently known to wide public Increasing visibility of the local offer of and potential consumers M.3.1. products and services More guests might come to the region if adventure tourism is better promoted.

Local products known, but not labelled or protected on the market.

Regional touristic offer is not branded, so it Improving marketing of products and does not use the advantage of the quality of M.3.2. services its components.

Branding of products and of the offer might help both become more competitive on the market.

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Detailed Strategy Matrix

Building local capacity of human resources and institutions for dealing with sustainable regional rural development

Developing new programmes for transfer of knowledge 1.1.1 Designing teaching modules for licencing mountain guides 1.1 .

Measure 1.1.2 Designing teaching modules for rescue services

Building regional structures corresponding to shared needs for capacity building

1.2. 1.2.1 Harmonizing extension service actions to respond to farmer needs

Measure 1.2.2 Building regional structures for harmonised joint actions for capacity building OBJECTIVE 1

Strengthening cooperation in business sector 1.3.1 Networking tour-operators and coordination of the tourist offers and trainings for improvement of the general tourist offer 1.3.

Measure 1.3.2 Organising farmers, planning and facilitating intensive cooperation within the sector and with processors and service providers Strengthened value chains in primary production, processing and tourism Creating multisector value chains 2.1.1 Integrating regional production in agriculture in short value chain with tourism

2.1.2 Integrating regional production in forestry in short value chain with tourism 2.1

Measure 2.1.3 Integrating traditional processing with tourism 2.1.4 Integrating game and fish breeding, wild fruits and medicinal and aromatic plants collection with local processing units and further with tourism Increasing competitiveness of multisector value chains

OBJECTIVE 2 2.2.1 Implementing quality standards and new production technologies in regional

agriculture for increasing competitiveness of final products 2.2.2 Increasing quality of services for increasing competitiveness of the tourist offer 2.2

Measure 2.2.3 Diversification of tourism through improvements of tourist infrastructure 2.2.4 Diversification of tourist offer through development of adventure tourism, adrenaline sports and recreation, educational and scientific tourism 2.2.5 Bringing innovations into traditional processing for meeting new standards The marketing and promotion of the region and its economy are improved through regional cross-border cooperation and joint actions Increasing visibility of the local offer of products and services

3.1.1 Promotion of adventure tourism

3.1 3.1.2 Promotion of integrated regional tourist packages

Measure 3.1.3 Proclamation of the Region as a Peace park; looking for more similar international brands for increasing interest in the Region and working on their adoption OBJECTIVE 3 Improving marketing of products and services 3.2.1 Branding of the Region

3.2 3.2.2 Branding of the regional tourist offer Measure 3.2.3 Branding of regional high quality products

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9. PROJECT CONCEPTS

The chosen projects were different, but mainly they could be grouped in the following way:

1. development projects (with investments) 2. capacity building projects 3. „people to people“ 4. combined/complex/to be implemented in few phases

All working groups agreed that the development of the Region should start with the new established Regional public-private partnership and local authorities are expected to implement the adopted agreement. As a continuation of the discussion about the name of the region, SHG continued the discussion about the visual identity of the Region as a starting point for asking EU officially to recognize the Region, but also as a starting point for branding the region and its products.

Although this subject was not specifically emphasized by the SHG, it seems that also in case of this region inventory of all resources available in the region including all different kinds of official documentation available has to be done until the first review of the strategy (after 3 years of implementation). This inventory will enable SHG to keep a synergy with other sectors and strategies and actions on local/ regional, national and EU level and prevent wasting of resources or missing the right time for action.

Landscape in “Prokletije- Bjeshkët e Namuna” region

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Project 1 Specific Objective (Priority area): Activity (action): Strengthened cooperation in the business sector Human resources capacity building • Development of new programmes for transfer of knowledge • Improvement of the local capacities in the tourism sector Name of the project : Improvement of the mountain guides and rescue service capacities in the region of Prokletije- Bjeshkët e Namuna Justification (problem and solution) and a brief description of the project • The number of mountain guides in the region is limited • Their education is partial (learning by doing) • The project proposal is to offer teaching modules on a master level in tourism studies in order to im- prove the preparation of guides and of rescue services The project will assure collaboration among the higher education institutions existing in the area. The mod- ules will be jointly provided by the University of Shkodra, University of Peja, and the Medical High School of Berane The project objectives: Target groups (beneficiaries) • Creation of theoretical and practical classes in order Licenced guides existing in the area to improve the education of mountain guides and Unlicensed guides and this might regulate their rescue services: situation • Creation of a multifunctional and professional guide Students on master level which want to expand capable to contribute to the development of the their knowledge sector in the area Firemen etc. Expected results: Indicators: Organisation of a study curricula for the mountain guides Curricula of the studies and rescue service Detailed modules (syllabus) Elaboration of theoretical and practical modules of the cur- ricula Study finalisation of the first cohort of students Application of the curricula for the first cohort of students The main activities: Implementation period: Preparation of the study curricula that includes: Modules on the natural features of the area Modules on the biodiversity 22 months Modules on cultural assets of the area Modules on the general information Modules on health and rescue services Application of the curricula for the first cohort of students The main risks: Estimated costs Lack of interest from the higher education institution 60-70.000 EUR Difficulties to find specialised professionals for the modules to teach them Difficulties with funding The status of readiness of the project: Sources of financing/co-financing: Project idea (concept) SWG through various projects Erasmus+ Public Funds Partners (in): Leading project partner/ implementation/ Universities (Peja, Shkodrea, Berane) monitoring and evaluation: Responsible ministries Haxhi Zeka University Peja Local authorities Association of alpinists

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Project 2 Specific Objective (Priority area): Activity (action): Strengthened cooperation in the business sector Networking tour-operators and coordination of tourist offers and trainings for improving the Improvement of the local capacities in the tourism sector general tourist offer

Name of the project: Coordinative forum of local tourist actors of Prokletije- Bjeshkët e Namuna Justification (problem and solution) and a brief description of the project • The tourist offer on Prokletije- Bjeshkët e Namuna is fragmented and there is a lack of harmonisation in terms of routes, services provided, and quality • Tourist routes are not developed as integrated offer for tourists • The quality of services is limited • There is a lack of trainings to assure the standards of service • The project will organise a forum of tourist actors who will deal with the main deficiencies of the tourist offers in the area in order to harmonise the general tourist offer in the area The project objectives: Target groups (beneficiaries) • Increase of tourist actors` collaboration in the area in The tourist operators in the area order to harmonise and standardise the tourist offer The local NGOs, and the service Public institutions dealing with the tourist pro- • Creation of a sustainable and quality tourist offer motion etc. Expected results: Indicators: • Creation of a local forum gathering all the tourist The forum is a regional structure which takes operators common decisions and organises the local offer • Sustainable tourist offer coordination on a regional Common routes on regional level, level • Creation and organization of training sessions for A list of training sessions according to the iden- tified needs the tourist operators Implementation of selected training sessions • Organisation of common tourist routes The main activities: Implementation period: Establishment of the forum with the participation of the local tourist actors Putting in place a functioning mode of the forum 3 years Identification of needs in term of action axes and identifica- tion of training sessions Training session implementation Regular meetings of the forum The main risks: Estimated costs Important number of operators in the area 150.000 EUR Difficulties to organise the local actors Existence of several partial projects in the area that may be competing with each other

The status of readiness of the project: Sources of financing/co-financing: Project idea (concept) SWG through various projects CBC projects

Partners (in): Leading project partner/ implementation/ Tourism promotion offices monitoring and evaluation: Tourism development NGO-s TBC Tourist operators in the area Local tourist organisation

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Project 3 Specific Objective (Priority area): Activity (action): Creating multisector value chains Linking regional production and processing in short value chain with tourism Increased competitiveness of multisector value chains

Name of the project: Promotion of local standards to valorise the traditional food recipes Justification (problem and solution) and a brief description of the project

• There is a lack of local food promotion • The local food recipes are not well valorised because there is a lack of promotion • There is a lack in terms of local food marketing

The project objectives: Target groups (beneficiaries) • To valorise the traditional food and integrate it in the Local population, housekeepers, regional tourist offer restaurants, touristic agencies etc. • Improvement of the service quality in the local and rural tourist venues

Expected results: Indicators: Improvement of the economic indicators of the area, im- Trainings for at least 21 housekeepers, provement of the tourist operators` skills and the quality of Trainings for at least 15 restaurants, the tourist venues Increase of tourists by 1/3

The main activities: Implementation period: Identification of local recipes Standardisation and elaboration of the local recipes Training for production based on the local recipes for restau- 12 months rants, cooks and housekeepers Leaflet with the local recipes A logo “traditional food”

The main risks: Estimated costs Lack of interest form local actors 40.000 EUR Lack of infrastructure Natural hazards

The status of readiness of the project: Sources of financing/co-financing: Project idea (concept) SWG through various projects CBC projects Local funds

Partners (in): Leading project partner/ implementation/ TBC monitoring and evaluation: TBC

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Project 4 Specific Objective (Priority area): Activity (action): Improved marketing of products and services Increased visibility of the local offer of products and services through P2P actions Branding of regional tourist offer and products

Name of the project: Chestnuts and blueberry fair Justification (problem and solution) and a brief description of the project • Organisation of a fair in order to promote the values of chestnuts and blueberries as a fresh fruit or conserved ones • Promotion of products and direct marketing of products linked with chestnuts and blueberry • Presentation of regional products to local inhabitants and tourists • Opening of the local market to the international one

The project objectives: Target groups (beneficiaries) • Promote fruits and by-products to the local popula- Local producers tion and tourists, Local companies specialised in local products. • Improve integration of the products in the markets Local and international tourists • Improve the income of farmers in the area • Improve marketing of products

Expected results: Indicators: Increase in the number of local and international tourists, Local producers To promote the organic products and a healthy style of life Companies offering traditional products National and international tourists Increase the sales for the local products Organisation of the fair on a regular basis

The main activities: Implementation period: Creation of a promoting unit October-November- March Establishemnt of collaboration between the local actors in 2016-2019 the area (15 producers and 5 traders connected in value chain)

The main risks: Estimated costs Weather problems TBC

The status of readiness of the project: Sources of financing/co-financing: Increased visibility of local products and services SWG through various projects CBC projects

Partners (in): Leading project partner/ implementation/ Tourism promotion offices monitoring and evaluation: Tourism development NGO-s Coordinative forum of Prokletije- Bjeshkët e Local tourist organisation Namuna The communes/ municipalities Associations of the local producers

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Project 5 Specific Objective (Priority area): Activity (action): Creating a set of standards for a new regional Strengthening value chains brand Increased competitiveness of multisector value chains • Introduction of food safety and related standards Diversification of the tourism offer • Increase quality and competitiveness of products and services from the region

Name of the project: Strengthening traditional products value chains of the region Justification (problem and solution) and a brief description of the project

The region of Prokletije - Bjeshkët e Namuna is recognized for its beauty, untouched nature, traditional and specific food products, which unfortunately are not adequately valorised. Also the region is receiving more attention by tourists, especially the nature lovers. In order to improve the quality of the products and services offered in the region, as well as to add value to the offer, this project concept is proposed. The project aims at strengthening human capacities for production of traditional specific products, as well as to stimulate home made products from indigenous species as support to development of local tourism. The project implementation will contribute to the improvement of the economic situation of the producers and service providers in rural tourism.

The project objectives: Target groups (beneficiaries) General objective: Young population Improvement of the economic situation of the producers and Agriculture and food producers from the region service providers in rural tourism Handicraft producers Tourism service providers Specific objectives: Strengthening human capacities for production of traditional specific products

Stimulation of home-made products from indigenous spe- cies as support to development of local tourism

Expected results: Indicators: Increase of quality and safety of the traditional products by At least 5 households per municipality are respecting the food safety standards involved in the short value chains (in the net- work) Increasing the duration of stay for 50% (e.g. from 2 to 4 days in the region) Increasing the number of tourists in pre and post season At least 5 products increased their quality by respecting the traditional production methods as well as, by respecting the food safety and quality standards (e.g. honey, kajmak, cheese, fruit syrup, surutka etc.). At least 50 participants educated in traditional production Signing of a Memorandum of understanding for joint cooperation between farmers organiza- tions, tourism service providers from the three countries

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The main activities: Implementation period: • Mapping of traditional and special products of the 36 months region • Mapping of producers / service providers • Strengthening of the capacities of the investors for maintaining the tradition (valorisation of the invest- ments) • Training of cooks for traditional production and for respecting the food safety standards • Raising awareness of the tourism service providers for offering specific home made products • Networking of handicrafts producers with accommo- dation capacities • Training of handicraft producers for improvement of the design and preparation of products collections (development of traditional handicrafts production) • Development of tourism through social entrepre- neurship and identification of social problems • Development of package/ basket of products from the region • Preparation of promotional material and joint web- site (maps, catalogues etc.)

The main risks: Estimated costs Mutual understanding and willingness for cooperation are 250.000 EUR a pre-condition for creation of partnerships within the value chains.

The status of readiness of the project: Sources of financing/co-financing: Project idea (concept) Foreign donors

Partners (in): Leading project partner/ implementation/ Tourism organizations of all involved municipalities monitoring and evaluation: NGOs – both in agriculture, food, handicraft and tourism sector To be defined Municipalities – agriculture and tourism departments (offic- es/ secretariats) Agriculture Institute of Peja Centre for tourism development Rozaje - NGO National park Prokletije Protection area authorities

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ANNEX 1 EXPLORATORY SURVEY, QUESTIONNAIRE FOR STAKEHOLDERS, ENGLISH VERSION

1. Are you satisfied with the development progress in your municipality? 2. Which are the main obstacles to socio-economic development in your municipality and/or your sector of activity? 3. What do you think are the main assets for socio-economic development in your municipality in terms of economic sectors and in terms of people and institutions? 4. What are in your opinion the present limitations of cross-border interaction with neighbouring countries? What are the possibilities/opportunities? 5. Which of the following should be in the focus of cross-border interaction with neighbouring countries? 6. List three priority actions for promoting development in your area.

Questions 1 to 5 will be directly fed into the baseline assessment exercise.

Question 6 will be used to assist in the identification of critical development needs, priority interventions and general objectives of the ABD programme in the respective region.

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ANNEX 2 QUESTIONNAIRE FOR STAKEHOLDERS

For respondent:

A0 Record here the date of responding:

A1 Record here the name of organisation:

A2 Indicate the municipality in which the responding organisation is located

[Add here list of all project municipalities for the respondent to tick the appropriate one]

A3 What the position do you currently hold in your organisation?

□ President/Director □ Manager □ Expert □ Other

B1 What are the current key issues related to human resources for the sustainable development of your municipality? [For respondent: Use the following introduction when asking this question: “Please read the following issues which could hinder sustainable development of human resources in your municipality. The answer options you have are “A huge problem”, “A problem”, “Not a problem”, “I don’t know”.]

A huge A problem Not a Don’t know problem problem

Availability of statistical data on human resources Current skills of the local work force

Job opportunities

Employability of people in general, that is, compatibility of competences gained in education with jobs requirements Employability of young people particularly

B2 Are there any other current key problems related to human resources for the sustainable development of your municipality?

______

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B3 What would you say about the existence of vocational training possibilities for the local workforce in the area? Please indicate your response on a scale from 1 -meaning inexistent to 5 -meaning fully meet demand.

1 2 3 4 5

C1 To what extent the following issues are putting in danger the local natural resources? Please indicate your response on a scale from 1 meaning not endangered at all to 5 meaning highly endangered.

1 2 3 4 5 Waste water management Solid waste management Agricultural pollution due to plant protection products, fertilizers

Industrial pollutions (air pollution, mining residues, etc...)

Threats to biodiversity (fauna, flora) Threats to landscape (uncontrolled urban- ism or industrial settlements etc…)

Climate change related threats Other (give examples)

C2 Examples of other threats

C3 Does a local strategy exist, that is, a local official policy document that regulates the preservation of natural resources and ecosystems?

□ Yes □ No [Continue with C5] □ Don’t know [Continue with C5]

C3a Has your organisation been involved in the design of this strategy?

□ Yes □ No

C3b Has your organisation been involved in the implementation of this strategy?

□ Yes □ No

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C4 To your knowledge, what kind of public resources are provided for a secure implementation of this strategy? Please indicate on a scale from 1- meaning no such funding available to 5 – meaning fully funded by this source, and 6 don’t know) the relevance of the following possible funding sources.

1 2 3 4 5 Own local funds Central government funding International donor funding

C5 To your knowledge, are there cross-border agreements in place on the preservation of natural resources and ecosystems?

□ Yes □ No [Continue with C7]

C6 If yes, with which localities/countries are such cross-border agreements in place?

______

C7 During the last 5 years has your organization been involved in measures concerned with the preservation of natural resources and ecosystems?

□ Yes □ No [Continue with C9]

C8 For the next 2 years do you expect the allocation of budget for measures concerned with the preservation of natural resources and ecosystems to…?

□ Increase □ Decrease □ Remain the same

C9 How much do economic activity in your municipality relies on natural resources? Please indicate your response on a scale from 1 – meaning not dependent at all to 5 meaning fully dependent.

1 2 3 4 5

C10 Which economic sectors rely most on shared natural resources?

______

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C11 What are currently the key issues related to natural resources for the sustainable development of your municipality? [For respondent: Use the following introduction when asking this question: “Please read the following issues which could hinder the sustainable administration of natural resources. The answer options you have are ‘A huge problem’, ‘A problem’, ‘Not a problem’, ‘Don’t know’”.]

A huge A problem Not a Don’t know problem problem

Availability of statistical data on natural resources Lack of public awareness of threats to nat- ural resources Inefficient legal framework

Unsatisfactory implementation and en- forcement of the legal framework

Co-operation amongst local authorities on your side of the border Cross-border co-operation of local author- ities

C12 Are there any other current key problems in the sustainable administration of natural resources?

______

C13 As how relevant do you consider the following cultural resources for local development in your municipality, both in terms of their current and potential utilization? Please indicate your response on a scale from 1 – meaning not relevant at all to 5 – meaning very relevant.

1 2 3 4 5 Local food and beverage products Theatre events Music events Cultural heritage monuments and sites

C14 Is there a strategy, either in terms of an official policy document or a vision shared by local stakeholders, that concerns the valorisation of local cultural resources?

□ Yes □ No [Continue with C21] □ Don’t know [Continue with C21]

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C15 What are the sources that make up the budget allocated to secure implementation of this strategy? Please indicate on a scale from 1 -meaning that no such funding is available to 5 -meaning that it is fully funded by this source) the relevance of the following possible funding sources.

1 2 3 4 5 Own local funds Central government funding International donor funding

C16 Are there cultural events that are organized in a recurring way, such as, for example an annual music festival?

□ Yes □ No [Continue with C23]

C17 Are any of these recurring cultural events organized through or in relation with cross- border activities?

□ Yes □ No

C18 Has your organization been involved in cross-border activities related to cultural resources during the last 5 years?

□ Yes □ No

D1 What are currently the key issues related to the economic sectors you mentioned in the previous question? Please read the following issues which could be development barriers for the first sector you mentioned. The answer options you have are ‘A huge problem’, ‘A problem’, ‘Not a problem’, ‘Don’t know’. Do you consider….?

A huge A problem Not a Don’t know problem problem

Availability of skilled labour

Availability of credits and loans

Availability of general business support services Security issues and/or legal certainty (in- cluding corruption) Competition on local markets

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Competition on regional/national markets

Competition on international markets

Legal and customs procedures

Cost of production

Cost of transport

Quality of production

Quantity of production

D2 Are there any other issues than those mentioned which are development problems for this sector?

______

D3 For the second sector that you mentioned, would you consider the following to be development barriers for the second sector that you just mentioned. Again, the answer options you have are ‘A huge problem’, ‘A problem’, ‘Not a problem’, ‘Don’t know’.

A huge A problem Not a Don’t know problem problem

Availability of skilled labour

Availability of credits and loans

Availability of general business support services Difficulties in marketing products – local market is too small

D3a Are there any other issues than those mentioned which are development problems for this sector?

______

D4 And for the third sector that you mentioned are the following development barriers for [add here first sector listed in D1]? A huge A problem Not a Don’t know problem problem

Availability of skilled labour

Availability of credits and loans

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Availability of general business support services Difficulties in marketing products – local market is too small

D4a Are there any other issues than those mentioned which are development problems for this sector?

______

D5 Which are, in your opinion, the economic sectors which would benefit the most from greater cross-border co-operation in the region? Please list up to three sectors.

______

______

______

D6 What is at present the origin of the tourists coming to your municipality? Please indicate your response on a scale from 1-meaning that this group is not represented to 5 -meaning that all of the tourists belong to this group).

1 2 3 4 5 Tourists from the same country Diaspora Tourists from cross-border areas International tourists, other than diaspora

D7 What are, for you, key obstacles that need to be addressed in order to achieve greater cross-border co-operation in the sectors just mentioned?

______

E1 Has your organization had any experience in cross-border activities during the last 5 years?

□ Yes □ No [Continue with E7]

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E2 Please indicate the number of official cross-border agreements your organization has signed with the following localities during the last 5 years?

[List here countries in the region and ask for listing of municipalities; also ask an additional question for the respondents to list all municipalities they consider belong to the region]

E3 Was this experience in cross-border activities related to…? [For respondents: Multiple answers are possible]

□ Human capital development (understood as measures to develop the skills of the local population in general, and the local workforce in particular) □ Natural resource common administration (understood as measures to administer in a sustainable way shared/common natural resources, such as water streams, national parks, etc.) □ Cultural resource development (understood as measures to promote cultural heritage shared by cross-border localities) □ Institutional capacity development (understood as measures to develop the institutional capacity of involved organisations in terms of achieving general and/or project related objectives) □ Cross-border capacity development (understood as measures to develop capacities to engage in cross-border activities □ Other? Which?

E4 Please indicate the total number of cross-border projects, your organization has been involved in during the last 5 years?

______

E5 With which of the following localities has your organization been engaged with for cross- border activities during the last 5 years?

[List here countries as per project area (i.e., for Neretva list HR, MN, BA) and ask for listing of municipalities]

E6 Are there any other localities with which your organization has been engaged with for cross- border activities during the last 5 years?

______

E7 Does a local development strategy exist, that is, an official policy document that sets out socio-economic development priorities and directions for your local economy?

□ Yes □ No [End of questionnaire]

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E8 To your knowledge, what are the sources that make up the budget allocated to secure implementation of the local development strategy? Please indicate the relevance of the following possible funding sources on a scale from 1 -meaning that no such funding is available to 5 -meaning that fully funded by this source.

1 2 3 4 5 Own local funds Central government funding International donor funding

E9 What is the current link between the local development strategy and cross-border activities?

□ Currently cross border activities play a minor role for the implementation of the local development strategy □ Currently, cross border activities play a major role for the implementation of the local development strategy

E10 Please list the three main barriers (1 the least important and 3 the most important) that impede the promotion of the legal and administrative framework for local development and cross border relations (maybe to be adapted after the first stakeholder meeting)

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ANNEX 3 VALIDATING QUESTIONNAIRE FILLED IN (EXAMPLE FOR THE ALBANIAN PART)

Shkodra Malësi e Tropoja Peja Deçan Madhe What would be an The Bjeshkët e The logo The logo of the Bjeshkët e attractive mark (logo mountainous Namuna had should be area should be Namuna is with a slogan) for the area of a traditional linked with linked with the the most region of Bjeshkët e Shkodra has logo that the natural national park appropriate Namuna Prokletije, quite different now is being characteristic Bjeshkët e logo, it is which could be used characteristics reused and it of the area, Namuna that is representative for the promotion that are much is known in the and natural established in of the area. of local products; closer to the area, there are products, the area. tourism in the Bjeshkët many tourists, outstanding region and to attract e Namuna coming in the landscapes investment region than area hoping the Shkodra to find natural region. landscapes, Traditionally and natural known as products (chest natural and nuts, honey, tourist area, cheese etc.) the logo should include these features of the area. What do you In the Already in the The The Peja The tourist think are potential municipality area there development region is offer of the "tourism products" we may have are available of the tourist suitable for two municipality in your municipality? different tourist several types area during main tourist has improved Spa tourism, special services, of tourist offers the last years, offers: winter during the adventure sports related to the linked mainly has diversified tourism, and entire year tourism (paragliding, sea, lakes, to climbing, the services adventure and (winter and rafting, climbing), mountains, adventure, available in biodiversity adventure summer mountain adventure, and natural the area but tourism. tourism). tourism: walking, climbing etc. landscapes. they are still The winter The part of camping, winter If we focus on We should linked with the tourism is not Bjeshkët tourism, cultural the Bjeshkët focus on the landscapes developed e Namuna tourism, religious e Namuna, development of and natural as it should located in this and heritage and climbing and this tourist offer resources. be, there are commune, is local traditions (food, adventure and connect it Still the built several project considered to etc.), rural tourism on are the most with the other heritage of to improve be the most farms/rural facilities. appropriate for mountainous the area is the winter suitable for Is there a secondary the area areas of not used as it tourist offer, winter tourism. potential for "tourism Bjeshkët e should be. but natural products" in your Namuna and adventure municipality? tourism should be developed more in the area. What are, in your Infrastructure/ Infrastructure/ Infrastructure/ Investments Investments opinion, important services services services activities to be undertaken in order to realize the potential in tourism

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Use of biodiversity x x x x x and natural resources for tourism Increase x x x x x environmental protection

Promote regional x x x x x labels of food and drinks Promote organic food production as a means to attract tourists and increase food trade Increase cooperation x x x x x in management of protected natural or cultural areas in the region (which share a border) Common institutions x x x x x and websites and promotional materials that would increase the tourist opportunities in the region Bjeshkët e Namuna-Prokletije Increase the number x x x of health care services Please specify two of your most important activities. In an earlier survey, Agriculture is The low prices Agriculture is agriculture was still the main of medicinal still not well recognized as one of economic herbs and developed, the the key resources for activity in the chestnuts improvement local development of rural area. have reduced of the tourist the region Bjeshkët considerably offer increases e Namuna. What the profits of the local prices do you think is the agriculture for agricultural potential of the at a farm products (lamb food sector in your level. Storage and kid meat, municipality services fruits and should be vegetables provided in the etc.) area in order to increase the income at farm level

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Fruit x x X x x Dairy products x x Meat products x X

Cereals Vegetables x x X Fish Something else? What? Are there any other resources in the agricultural food sector in your municipality? What is your opinion of the activities to be undertaken in order to realize the potential in agriculture for the food sector and rural development

To improve the Improvement Storage of Wholesale level of skills of of local products sales point agricultural workers agricultural in order to (e.g. technical: skills markets in the improve the related to pest / area producer prices fertilizer / soil , and (chestnuts, / or organizational blueberries / business / etc.) entrepreneurial skills, including the acquisition of knowledge related to markets and to the supply chain

To improve provision x x X x x of physical capital (machines) for agricultural production (tractors, irrigation systems, storage facilities)

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Improving market x x X x x infrastructure for local sale- type? In terms of location of the local market? Buildings on the site? Roads?

Improving market x x X infrastructure for sales nationally (e.g. Association ) Improving market infrastructure for international sales (e.g. Network )

Promoting organic Promotion of Promotion of food - give a a basket of a basket of concrete example of natural/organic natural/organic the goods products of the products of the municipality, municipality, that have that have an added an added value (fruits, value (fruits, cultivated cultivated sage, apples, plums, chestnuts, chestnuts, blueberries blueberries etc.) etc.) Strengthen links x Use the local Use the local x x between tourism and products for products for the business sector - the tourist offer the tourist offer an example of the area. of the area. Where it is Where it is possible it is possible it is not always the not always the case. Creation case. Creation of a regional of a regional label including label including restaurants restaurants and hotels/ and hotels/ hostels where hostels where the food and the food and beverages beverages served are served are locally grown locally grown and produced and produced

Improve local rural public infrastructure and services other than transport (for e.g. access to water )

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ANNEX 4 LIST OF PARTICIPANTS ON THE MEETINGS OF THE STAKEHOLDER GROUP (SHG)

First SHG Meeting organized on 22.03.2016 in Andrijevica, Montenegro

Name Organization/ Institution E-mail

Adi Garuci Service Provider [email protected]

Agron Camaj Translator [email protected]

Aleksandar Stomjanovski SWG [email protected]

Amel Dedejic Tourist organisation of Komovi

Arben Gjuraj Deputy mayor of Shkodra Municipality [email protected]

Besnik Zeka Economic development directory Pejë [email protected]

Damjan Surlevski SWG [email protected]

Emurllah Spahiu SWG [email protected]

Ertil Markaj Tourist Agency Municipality Malësia e [email protected] Madhe Fatmir guri SWG [email protected]

Irena Dzimrevska SWG [email protected]

Jasmin Medunjanin Prokletije [email protected]

Jelena Krivcevic Regional Development Agency [email protected]

Lulzim Logu Civil Society [email protected]

Marko Guberinic Hotel Manager [email protected]

Milan Radovic P.k. Visokogorski Crne Gore [email protected]

Miodrag Ivanovic Local government [email protected]

Nexhdet Shala Dean of Agribusiness Faculty Pejë [email protected]

Nedzad Muric Rozaje

Nuredin Ahmetaj Tourist Association Valbona

Prek Gjeloshaj Association Reci Prodhimtar

Rita Barjaktarovic Municipality Berane [email protected]

Spartak Sokoli Civil Society [email protected]

Sulejman Desic Municipality Plav [email protected]

Suzana Djordevic Milosevic SWG [email protected]

Violeta Camaj Translator

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Second SHG Meeting organized on 25.04.2016 in Peja, Kosovo*

Name Organization/ Institution E-mail

Adi Garuci Service Provider [email protected]

Aleksandar Damjanovic SWG [email protected]

Aleksandar Stomjanovski SWG [email protected]

Amel Dedejic Tourist organization of Komovi

Besnik Zeka Economic development directory Pejë [email protected]

Emir Feratovic Touristic organization Plav [email protected]

Emurllah Spahiu SWG [email protected]

Ertil Markaj Tourist Agency Municipality Malësia e [email protected] Madhe Fatmir guri SWG [email protected]

Feride Rrahminaj Deputy mayor of Tropoja Municipality [email protected]

Fikret Kuc Project Manager [email protected]

Havaja Prelvukaj Municipality Gucie [email protected]

Irena Dzimrevska SWG [email protected]

Jasmin Bralic Birnicentar Rozaje [email protected]

Jasmin Medunjanin Prokletije [email protected]

Jelena Krivcevic Regional Development Agency [email protected]

Lulzim Logu Civil Society [email protected]

Marko Guberinic Hotel Manager [email protected]

Miodrag Ivanovic Local government [email protected]

Mohamed Sagdati Translator

Nexhdet Shala Dean of Agribusiness Faculty Pejë [email protected]

Nedzad Muric Rozaje

Nuredin Ahmetaj Tourist Association Valbona

Petrit Imeraj Bashkia Shkodër [email protected]

Prek Gjeloshaj Association Reci Prodhimtar

Rita Barjaktarovic Municipality Berane [email protected]

Sali Lajci Urbanism directorate Pejë [email protected]

Sulemjan Desic Municipality Plav [email protected]

Suzana Djordevic Milosevic SWG [email protected]

Virtyt Morina Director of tourist sector municipality of Pejë [email protected]

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Third SHG Meeting organized in the period 13-14.06.2016 in Valbone, Albania

Name Organization/ Institution E-mail

Adi Garuci Service Provider [email protected]

Agron Isufaj Bashkia Shkodër [email protected]

Aleksandar Damjanovic SWG [email protected]

Aleksandar Stomjanovski SWG [email protected]

Anela Cekic Municipality Gucie [email protected]

Arben Gjuraj Deputy mayor of Shkodra Municipality [email protected]

Astrit Villa Tour operator

Bakir Kelmendi Universiteti i Pejës [email protected]

Fatmir guri SWG [email protected]

Fatos Lajçi Urbanism directory Pejë [email protected]

Feride Rrahminaj Deputy mayor of Tropoja Municipality [email protected]

Havaja Prelvukaj Municipality Gucie [email protected]

Irena Dzimrevska SWG [email protected]

Irfan Hasandekic Municipality Gucie

Jasmin Medunjanin Prokletije [email protected]

Jelena Krivcevic Regional Development Agency [email protected]

Kasmet Ponari Deputy mayor of Tropoja Municipality [email protected]

Lulzim Logu Civil Society [email protected]

Miodrag Ivanovic Local government [email protected]

Mohamed Sagdati Translator

Nexhdet Shala Dean of Agribusiness Faculty Pejë [email protected]

Nuredin Ahmetaj Touristic Association Valbona

Rita Barjaktarovic Municipality Berane [email protected]

Suzana Djordevic Milosevic SWG [email protected]

Veton Vehapi Translator [email protected]

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Fourth SHG Meeting organized on 07.10.2016 in Plav, Montenegro

Name Organization/ Institution E-mail

Afërdita Shala Municipality Pejë [email protected]

Agron Isufaj Bashkia Shkodër [email protected]

Aleksandar Stomjanovski SWG [email protected]

Amel Dedejic Tourist organisation of Komovi

Bakir Kelmendi Universiteti i Pejës [email protected]

Besnik Zeka Economic development directory Pejë [email protected]

Defrime Berisha Universiteti Pejë [email protected]

Fatmir guri SWG [email protected]

Havaja Prelvukaj Municipality Gucie [email protected]

Irena Dzimrevska SWG [email protected]

Jasmin Medunjanin Prokletije [email protected]

Jelena Krivcevic Regional Development Agency [email protected]

Lulzim Logu Civil Society [email protected]

Mohamed Sagdati Translator

Nedzad Muric Rozaje

Nuredin Ahmetaj Tourist Association Valbona

Petrit Imeraj Bashkia Shkodër [email protected]

Rita Barjaktarovic Municipality Berane [email protected]

Sulemjan Desic Municipality Plav [email protected]

Suzana Djordevic Milosevic SWG [email protected]

Veton Vehapi Translator [email protected]

Zaim Kadovic Municipality Plav [email protected]

118 BASELINE STUDY AND STRATEGIC PLAN FOR DEVELOPMENT OF THE CROSS-BORDER REGION “PROKLETIJE- BJESHKËT E NAMUNA”

ANNEX 5 MUNICIPAL ID CARD- TROPOJA Demographic data Male Female Total Population - total 10,417 10,100 20,517 Population up to 15 2,806 2,324 5,130 Population in active age (16 – 64) 5,183 6,611 13,162 Population over 64 1,060 1,165 2,225 Natural growth Population with primary education Population with secondary education Population with university education Population without primary education Pupils in elementary schools 3,120 Pupils in secondary schools 1,005 University students - People who had left the area 7,000 (26.6%) Returnees Employees 1,650 (official decla- ration People receiving social assistance 1,700 Number of pensioners % of urban population 26%

Civil society level of development Cultural and artistic clubs 4 Sport clubs - Organizations involved in environmental protection 1 Organizations that deal with socio-economic issues 2 Others of importance

Natural and cultural heritage in the region Protected areas (ha, m2-list them) 8000 ha National parks (ha, m2-list them) 8000 ha Fishing zones (ha, m2, list them) - Hunting grounds (ha, m2, list them) - Number of recreation centres - Number of ethno villages -

Development of the infrastructure and institutions Water supply network (km) Na The coverage of water supply network in rural areas (%) 70%

119 BASELINE STUDY AND STRATEGIC PLAN FOR DEVELOPMENT OF THE CROSS-BORDER REGION “PROKLETIJE- BJESHKËT E NAMUNA”

Sewage network (km, or % of households with access) na Sewage network coverage in rural areas (% of households) Coverage of the collection of solid waste (% of households) 45% Regional roads (km) 161 (total 538) Local asphalted roads (km) 164 Local unpaved roads (km) 374 The availability of electricity (% of households with access) 95% The quality of electricity (% of households with three-phase - supply) Number of local public transport lines 2 % Of local communities covered by public transport The number of regional public transport lines 2 The number of international lines of public transport 2 Number of kindergartens 25 Number of elementary schools 51 Number of high schools 6 Number of universities (colleges) Number of cinemas Number of weekly cinema screenings Number of theatres Number of theatre performances Number of libraries 1 Number of swimming pools Number sports grounds TV signal coverage (% of households) 90 The coverage of mobile telephony 90 % Of households with Internet connection -

Structure of the economy GDP % of total A. Agriculture, hunting and forestry 36 B. Fishery C. Mining and quarrying D. Manufacturing 8 E. Electricity, gas, steam and air-conditioning supply F. Construction 15 G. Wholesale and retail trade, repair of motor vehicles and motorcycles H. Services (Catering, Restaurants, Hotels, Tourism...) 11 I. Transportation and storage J. Financial and insurance activities 9 K. Real estate activities L. Public administration and defence, compulsory social security M. Education N. Human health services

120 BASELINE STUDY AND STRATEGIC PLAN FOR DEVELOPMENT OF THE CROSS-BORDER REGION “PROKLETIJE- BJESHKËT E NAMUNA”

O. Other services 20 P. Activities of households as employers; undifferentiated goods- and ser- vices-producing activities of households for own use Q. Activities of extra-territorial organisations and bodies TOTAL 99.4

EUR Total investments More than RSD 10 mil. Foreign total investments (FDI)

Total area (ha) Urbanised land (ha) Agricultural land (ha) 7387 Arable land (ha) 3870 Sown land (ha) 4066 Orchards (ha) 480 Vineyards (ha) 15.6 Meadows and Pastures (ha) Ponds and swamps (ha) Forest land (ha) Deciduous forests (ha) Coniferous forests (ha)

Agricultural cooperatives Cooperatives

Hotels 8 Motels 24 Overnight stays Foreign tourists Travel agencies

Number Rural households 4800 Farms 4800 Cattle 1000 Milking cows 500 Sheep 4000 Pigs - Poultry

121 BASELINE STUDY AND STRATEGIC PLAN FOR DEVELOPMENT OF THE CROSS-BORDER REGION “PROKLETIJE- BJESHKËT E NAMUNA”

MUNICIPAL ID CARD- SHKODËR Demographic data Male Female Total Population - total 94,094 185,395 Population up to 15 27,704 26,341 54,045 Population in active age (16 – 64) 55,983 59,589 115,572 Population over 64 7,614 8,164 15,778 Natural growth 0.5 0.5 0.5 Population with primary education 57-58 59-60 58.-59 Population with secondary education 22-23 18-19 19-20 Population with university education 4-5 5-6 4-5 Population without primary education 15-16 17-18 16-17 Pupils in elementary schools Pupils in secondary schools University students People who had left the area 50 50 50 Returnees 50 50 50 Employees 36,799 21,207 58,006-29200 People receiving social assistance 7000 18000 25000 Number of pensioners % of urban population 50 50 55

Civil society level of development Cultural and artistic clubs 28 Sport clubs 15 Organizations involved in environmental protection 4 Organizations that deal with socio-economic issues 8 Others of importance

Natural and cultural heritage in the region Protected areas (ha, m2-list them) 35752000 16 971 687 National parks (ha, m2-list them) 183 637 000 000 Fishing zones (ha, m2, list them) 3 391 753 Hunting grounds (ha, m2, list them) 35 288 568 Number of recreation centres 2 Number of ethno villages 2

Development of the infrastructure and institutions Water supply network (km) 34+30 cp The coverage of water supply network in rural areas (%) 20 Sewage network (km, or % of households with access) 30 Sewage network coverage in rural areas (% of households) 10

122 BASELINE STUDY AND STRATEGIC PLAN FOR DEVELOPMENT OF THE CROSS-BORDER REGION “PROKLETIJE- BJESHKËT E NAMUNA”

Coverage of the collection of solid waste (% of households) 10 Regional roads (km) 967 Local asphalted roads (km) 448+40 Local unpaved roads (km) 479 The availability of electricity (% of households with access) 90 The quality of electricity (% of households with three-phase 0 supply) Number of local public transport lines % Of local communities covered by public transport 100 The number of regional public transport lines 20 The number of international lines of public transport 5 Number of kindergartens 57 Number of elementary schools 80 Number of high schools 18 Number of universities (colleges) 2 Number of cinemas 2 Number of weekly cinema screenings 0 Number of theatres 1 Number of theatre performances 100 Number of libraries 20 Number of swimming pools 3 Number sports grounds 3 TV signal coverage (% of households) 90 The coverage of mobile telephony 100 % Of households with Internet connection 60

Structure of the economy GDP % of total A. Agriculture, hunting and forestry 81 B. Fishery 3 C. Mining and quarrying 0.01 D. Manufacturing 3.5 E. Electricity, gas, steam and air-conditioning supply 0.05 F. Construction 5 G. Wholesale and retail trade, repair of motor vehicles and motorcycles 0.01 H. Services (Catering, Restaurants, Hotels, Tourism...) 4.3 I. Transportation and storage 0.01 J. Financial and insurance activities 0.01 K. Real estate activities 0.01 L. Public administration and defence, compulsory social security 0.5 M. Education 0.5 N. Human health services 0.1 O. Other services 0

123 BASELINE STUDY AND STRATEGIC PLAN FOR DEVELOPMENT OF THE CROSS-BORDER REGION “PROKLETIJE- BJESHKËT E NAMUNA”

P. Activities of households as employers; undifferentiated goods- and ser- 2 vices-producing activities of households for own use Q. Activities of extra-territorial organisations and bodies TOTAL

EUR Total investments Foreign total investments (FDI)

Total area (ha) Urbanised land (ha) 1661 Agricultural land (ha) 78540 Arable land (ha) 17610 Sown land (ha) 18691 Orchards (ha) 390 Vineyards (ha) 280 Meadows and Pastures (ha) 41513 Ponds and swamps (ha) 46 Forest land (ha) 4977 Deciduous forests (ha) 3425 Coniferous forests (ha) 1552

Agricultural cooperatives 0 Cooperatives 0

Hotels 250 Motels 30 Overnight stays 150000 Foreign tourists 100000 Travel agencies 25

Number Rural households 21117 Farms 14017 Cattle 15800 Milking cows 22500 Sheep 22800 Pigs 38410 Poultry 224000

124 BASELINE STUDY AND STRATEGIC PLAN FOR DEVELOPMENT OF THE CROSS-BORDER REGION “PROKLETIJE- BJESHKËT E NAMUNA”

MUNICIPAL ID CARD- MALËSI E MADHE Demographic data Male Female Total Population - total 20756 19603 40357 Population up to 15 7014 80160 15174 Population in active age (16 – 64) 10365 11591 21965 Population over 64 1574 1644 3218 Natural growth Population with primary education 64-65 67-68 68.79 Population with secondary education 22-23 18-19 21.25 Population with university education 4.5 4 4.39 Population without primary education 4 Pupils in elementary schools Pupils in secondary schools University students People who had left the area Returnees Employees 6577 3277 9854 People receiving social assistance 10946 Number of pensioners % of urban population 11

Civil society level of development Cultural and artistic clubs 3 Sport clubs 1 Organizations involved in environmental protection 1 Organizations that deal with socio-economic issues 1 Others of importance

Natural and cultural heritage in the region Protected areas (ha, m2-list them) 14 410 707m2 47 529 000m2 54 698 000 m2 National parks (ha, m2-list them) Fishing zones (ha, m2, list them) Hunting grounds (ha, m2, list them) Number of recreation centres Number of ethno villages 2

Development of the infrastructure and institutions Water supply network (km) The coverage of water supply network in rural areas (%) 10 Sewage network (km, or % of households with access) 20

125 BASELINE STUDY AND STRATEGIC PLAN FOR DEVELOPMENT OF THE CROSS-BORDER REGION “PROKLETIJE- BJESHKËT E NAMUNA”

Sewage network coverage in rural areas (% of households) 10 Coverage of the collection of solid waste (% of households) 20 Regional roads (km) 536 Local asphalted roads (km) 170 Local unpaved roads (km) 350 The availability of electricity (% of households with access) 90 The quality of electricity (% of households with three-phase 0 supply) Number of local public transport lines 15 % Of local communities covered by public transport 90 The number of regional public transport lines 2 The number of international lines of public transport 2 Number of kindergartens 31 Number of elementary schools 48 Number of high schools 7 Number of universities (colleges) 0 Number of cinemas 0 Number of weekly cinema screenings 0 Number of theatres 0 Number of theatre performances 0 Number of libraries 2 Number of swimming pools 0 Number sports grounds 5 TV signal coverage (% of households) 50 The coverage of mobile telephony 90 % Of households with Internet connection 20

Structure of the economy GDP % of total A. Agriculture, hunting and forestry 40 B. Fishery 0.1 C. Mining and quarrying 0 D. Manufacturing 0.01 E. Electricity, gas, steam and air-conditioning supply 0.01 F. Construction 3 G. Wholesale and retail trade, repair of motor vehicles and motorcycles 0.01 H. Services (Catering, Restaurants, Hotels, Tourism...) 5 I. Transportation and storage 0.5 J. Financial and insurance activities 0.05 K. Real estate activities 0.01 L. Public administration and defence, compulsory social security 5 M. Education 0.5 N. Human health services 0.5 O. Other services

126 BASELINE STUDY AND STRATEGIC PLAN FOR DEVELOPMENT OF THE CROSS-BORDER REGION “PROKLETIJE- BJESHKËT E NAMUNA”

P. Activities of households as employers; undifferentiated goods- and ser- 30 vices-producing activities of households for own use Q. Activities of extra-territorial organisations and bodies 15 TOTAL

EUR Total investments Foreign total investments (FDI)

Total area (ha) Urbanised land (ha) 344 Agricultural land (ha) 48619 Arable land (ha) 10805 Sown land (ha) 18133 Orchards (ha) 418 Vineyards (ha) 302 Meadows and Pastures (ha) 4243 Ponds and swamps (ha) 14718 Forest land (ha) 34775 Deciduous forests (ha) Coniferous forests (ha)

Agricultural cooperatives 1 Cooperatives 0

Hotels 3 Motels 10 Overnight stays 40000 Foreign tourists 30000 Travel agencies 5

Number Rural households Farms 8222 Cattle 12145 Milking cows 9700 Sheep 35814 Pigs 10800 Poultry 253000

127 BASELINE STUDY AND STRATEGIC PLAN FOR DEVELOPMENT OF THE CROSS-BORDER REGION “PROKLETIJE- BJESHKËT E NAMUNA”

MUNICIPAL ID CARD- ROŽAJE Demographic data Male Female Total Population - total 11776 11188 22964 Population up to 15 6025 Population in active age (16 – 64) 15075 Population over 64 1864 Natural growth 220 Population with primary education 5576 Population with secondary education 5340 Population with university education 1149 Population without primary education 3625 Pupils in elementary schools 3428 1600 5028 Pupils in secondary schools 593 513 1106 University students / People who had left the area 170 Returnees Employees 1802 969 2.771 People receiving social assistance 6.391 Number of pensioners 2160 % of urban population 55.6

Civil society level of development Cultural and artistic clubs 17 Sport clubs 23 Organizations involved in environmental protection 5 Organizations that deal with socio-economic issues 71 Others of importance

Natural and cultural heritage in the region Protected areas (ha, m2-list them) / National parks (ha, m2-list them) / Fishing zones (ha, m2, list them) Hunting grounds (ha, m2, list them) Number of recreation centres Ski centerTurjak Number of ethno villages /

Development of the infrastructure and institutions Water supply network (km) 42 The coverage of water supply network in rural areas (%) Sewage network (km, or % of households with access) 2020 km Sewage network coverage in rural areas (% of households)

128 BASELINE STUDY AND STRATEGIC PLAN FOR DEVELOPMENT OF THE CROSS-BORDER REGION “PROKLETIJE- BJESHKËT E NAMUNA”

Coverage of the collection of solid waste (% of households) 50.1% Regional roads (km) 79 Local asphalted roads (km) 74.3 Local unpaved roads (km) 199.7 The availability of electricity (% of households with access) 91.8% The quality of electricity (% of households with three-phase supply) Number of local public transport lines 7 % Of local communities covered by public transport The number of regional public transport lines 12 The number of international lines of public transport 32 Number of kindergartens 1 Number of elementary schools 10 Number of high schools 2 Number of universities (colleges) / Number of cinemas 1 Number of weekly cinema screenings Sporadic screenings Number of theatres 1 Number of theatre performances Sporadic performances Number of libraries 1 Number of swimming pools / Number sports grounds 3 TV signal coverage (% of households) 100% The coverage of mobile telephony 95% % Of households with Internet connection 20%

Structure of the economy GDP % of total A. Agriculture, hunting and forestry B. Fishery C. Mining and quarrying D. Manufacturing E. Electricity, gas, steam and air-conditioning supply F. Construction G. Wholesale and retail trade, repair of motor vehicles and motorcycles H. Services (Catering, Restaurants, Hotels, Tourism...) I. Transportation and storage J. Financial and insurance activities K. Real estate activities L. Public administration and defence, compulsory social security M. Education N. Human health services O. Other services

129 BASELINE STUDY AND STRATEGIC PLAN FOR DEVELOPMENT OF THE CROSS-BORDER REGION “PROKLETIJE- BJESHKËT E NAMUNA”

P. Activities of households as employers; undifferentiated goods- and ser- vices-producing activities of households for own use Q. Activities of extra-territorial organisations and bodies TOTAL

EUR Total investments Foreign total investments (FDI)

Total area (ha) Urbanised land (ha) 431 Agricultural land (ha) 20 251 Arable land (ha) 9 448 Sown land (ha) 731 Orchards (ha) 17 Vineyards (ha) Meadows and Pastures (ha) 8.700 Ponds and swamps (ha) 337 Forest land (ha) 26.881 Deciduous forests (ha) 4301 Coniferous forests (ha) 22580

Agricultural cooperatives 2 Cooperatives /

Hotels 3 Motels 2 Overnight stays 6.192 Foreign tourists 942 Travel agencies /

Number Rural households 2089 Farms 1704 Cattle 5648 Milking cows 3478 Sheep 8705 Pigs 29 Poultry 7809

130 BASELINE STUDY AND STRATEGIC PLAN FOR DEVELOPMENT OF THE CROSS-BORDER REGION “PROKLETIJE- BJESHKËT E NAMUNA”

MUNICIPAL ID CARD- PLAV Demographic data Male Female Total Population - total 6664 6444 13108 - Census 2011 Population up to 15 2905 Population in active age (16 – 64) 8464 Population over 64 1739 Natural growth 7 (data from 2015) Population with primary education 3160 Population with secondary education 4095 Population with university education 996 Population without primary education 1888 Pupils in elementary schools 1145 544 1689 (data from 2015) Pupils in secondary schools 372 357 729 (data from 2015) University students People who had left the area 71 (moved to other mu- nicipalities in Montene- gro during 2015) Returnees Employees 1194 689 1883 People receiving social assistance 1756 (data from 2010) Number of pensioners 1469 % of urban population 5390 inhabitants (41%)

Civil society level of development Cultural and artistic clubs 13 Sport clubs 14 Organizations involved in environmental protection 6 Organizations that deal with socio-economic issues 45 Others of importance 4

Natural and cultural heritage in the region Protected areas (ha, m2-list them) 1052ha, Hridsko Lake and Volusnica National parks (ha, m2-list them) 16630 ha, National Park Prokletije Fishing zones (ha, m2, list them) River Lim 11km, River Ljuca 14km, River Vruja 1km, Plavsko Lake 2km2 Hunting grounds (ha, m2, list them) 2 grounds, 48600ha Number of recreation centres 0 Number of ethno villages 3

Development of the infrastructure and institutions Water supply network (km) 87.76 The coverage of water supply network in rural areas (%) 72%

131 BASELINE STUDY AND STRATEGIC PLAN FOR DEVELOPMENT OF THE CROSS-BORDER REGION “PROKLETIJE- BJESHKËT E NAMUNA”

Sewage network (km, or % of households with access) 21.2 Sewage network coverage in rural areas (% of households) 52% Coverage of the collection of solid waste (% of households) 80% Regional roads (km) 38 Local asphalted roads (km) 80 Local unpaved roads (km) 200 The availability of electricity (% of households with access) 5530 households with access, 147% The quality of electricity (% of households with three-phase supply) Number of local public transport lines 3 % Of local communities covered by public transport The number of regional public transport lines 4 The number of international lines of public transport 2 Number of kindergartens 3 (Plav, Gusinje, Murino) Number of elementary schools 3 Number of high schools 1 Number of universities (colleges) 0 Number of cinemas 2 Number of weekly cinema screenings Sporadic screenings Number of theatres 1 Number of theatre performances Sporadic performances Number of libraries 2 Number of swimming pools 0 Number sports grounds 5 TV signal coverage (% of households) 100% The coverage of mobile telephony 95% % Of households with Internet connection 35%

Structure of the economy GDP % of total A. Agriculture, hunting and forestry B. Fishery C. Mining and quarrying D. Manufacturing E. Electricity, gas, steam and air-conditioning supply F. Construction G. Wholesale and retail trade, repair of motor vehicles and motorcycles H. Services (Catering, Restaurants, Hotels, Tourism...) I. Transportation and storage J. Financial and insurance activities K. Real estate activities L. Public administration and defence, compulsory social security M. Education N. Human health services

132 BASELINE STUDY AND STRATEGIC PLAN FOR DEVELOPMENT OF THE CROSS-BORDER REGION “PROKLETIJE- BJESHKËT E NAMUNA”

O. Other services P. Activities of households as employers; undifferentiated goods- and ser- vices-producing activities of households for own use Q. Activities of extra-territorial organisations and bodies TOTAL

EUR Total investments Foreign total investments (FDI)

Total area (ha) Urbanised land (ha) 508,4 Agricultural land (ha) 24732 Arable land (ha) 8143 Sown land (ha) 1985 Orchards (ha) 612 Vineyards (ha) - Meadows and Pastures (ha) 22083 Ponds and swamps (ha) Forest land (ha) 29829 Deciduous forests (ha) 10619,13 Coniferous forests (ha) 19209,87

Agricultural cooperatives 3 Cooperatives -

Hotels 2 Motels 5 (including eco lodges) Overnight stays 2122 (data from 2011) Foreign tourists 1067 (data from 2011) Travel agencies 0

Number Rural households 2479 Farms 1706 Cattle 3757 Milking cows 2169 Sheep 11726 Pigs 925 Poultry 9076

133 BASELINE STUDY AND STRATEGIC PLAN FOR DEVELOPMENT OF THE CROSS-BORDER REGION “PROKLETIJE- BJESHKËT E NAMUNA”

MUNICIPAL ID CARD- BERANE Demographic data Male Female Total Population - total 17087 16883 33970 Population up to 15 7143 Population in active age (16 – 64) 22299 Population over 64 4528 Natural growth 83 Population with primary education 7837 Population with secondary education 12062 Population with university education 2648 Population without primary education 4241 Pupils in elementary schools 3195 1501 4696 Pupils in secondary schools 1225 1193 2418 University students 477 People who had left the area 309 Returnees / Employees 3242 2037 5279 People receiving social assistance 4450 Number of pensioners 5273 % of urban population 32.5%

Civil society level of development Cultural and artistic clubs 16 Sport clubs 50 Organizations involved in environmental protection 14 Organizations that deal with socio-economic issues 86 Others of importance 8

Natural and cultural heritage in the region Protected areas (ha, m2-list them) / National parks (ha, m2-list them) 1800 ha NP Biogradska Gora Fishing zones (ha, m2, list them) Hunting grounds (ha, m2, list them) LovisteBerane Number of recreation centres 1 - Ski centarLokve Number of ethno villages /

Development of the infrastructure and institutions Water supply network (km) 163 The coverage of water supply network in rural areas (%) Sewage network (km, or % of households with access) 46% Sewage network coverage in rural areas (% of households)

134 BASELINE STUDY AND STRATEGIC PLAN FOR DEVELOPMENT OF THE CROSS-BORDER REGION “PROKLETIJE- BJESHKËT E NAMUNA”

Coverage of the collection of solid waste (% of households) 48% Regional roads (km) 322.6 Local asphalted roads (km) 248 Local unpaved roads (km) 691 The availability of electricity (% of households with access) 165% The quality of electricity (% of households with three-phase supply) Number of local public transport lines % Of local communities covered by public transport The number of regional public transport lines 15 The number of international lines of public transport 31 Number of kindergartens 3 Number of elementary schools 13 Number of high schools 4 Number of universities (colleges) 5 Number of cinemas 1 Number of weekly cinema screenings Sporadic screenings Number of theatres 1 Number of theatre performances Sporadic performances Number of libraries 1 Number of swimming pools / Number sports grounds 3 TV signal coverage (% of households) 100% The coverage of mobile telephony 97% % Of households with Internet connection 16.1%

Structure of the economy GDP % of total A. Agriculture, hunting and forestry B. Fishery C. Mining and quarrying D. Manufacturing E. Electricity, gas, steam and air-conditioning supply F. Construction G. Wholesale and retail trade, repair of motor vehicles and motorcycles H. Services (Catering, Restaurants, Hotels, Tourism...) I. Transportation and storage J. Financial and insurance activities K. Real estate activities L. Public administration and defence, compulsory social security M. Education N. Human health services O. Other services

135 BASELINE STUDY AND STRATEGIC PLAN FOR DEVELOPMENT OF THE CROSS-BORDER REGION “PROKLETIJE- BJESHKËT E NAMUNA”

P. Activities of households as employers; undifferentiated goods- and ser- vices-producing activities of households for own use Q. Activities of extra-territorial organisations and bodies TOTAL

EUR Total investments Foreign total investments (FDI)

Total area (ha) Urbanised land (ha) Agricultural land (ha) 25475 Arable land (ha) 21870 Sown land (ha) 328 Orchards (ha) 79 Vineyards (ha) / Meadows and Pastures (ha) 21114 Ponds and swamps (ha) / Forest land (ha) 27856 Deciduous forests (ha) 10864 Coniferous forests (ha) 16992

Agricultural cooperatives 1 Cooperatives /

Hotels 3 Motels 1 Overnight stays 2514 Foreign tourists 873 Travel agencies 2

Number Rural households 4509 Farms 3162 Cattle 6651 Milking cows 4387 Sheep 18480 Pigs 3761 Poultry 34404

136 BASELINE STUDY AND STRATEGIC PLAN FOR DEVELOPMENT OF THE CROSS-BORDER REGION “PROKLETIJE- BJESHKËT E NAMUNA”

MUNICIPAL ID CARD- ANDRIJEVICA Demographic data Male Female Total Population - total 2614 2457 5071 Population up to 15 903 Population in active age (16 – 64) 3316 Population over 64 852 Natural growth Population with primary education 1367 Population with secondary education 1941 Population with university education 335 Population without primary education 927 Pupils in elementary schools 511 249 760 Pupils in secondary schools 70 89 159 University students / People who had left the area 70 Returnees Employees 296 174 470 People receiving social assistance 610 Number of pensioners 613 % of urban population 20

Civil society level of development Cultural and artistic clubs 10 Sport clubs 13 Organizations involved in environmental protection 5 Organizations that deal with socio-economic issues 22 Others of importance

Natural and cultural heritage in the region Protected areas (ha, m2-list them) Park prirodeKomovi National parks (ha, m2-list them) NP Biogradska Gora Fishing zones (ha, m2, list them) Hunting grounds (ha, m2, list them) LovisteAndrijevica Number of recreation centres / Number of ethno villages 2

Development of the infrastructure and institutions Water supply network (km) 31 The coverage of water supply network in rural areas (%) Sewage network (km, or % of households with access) 3km Sewage network coverage in rural areas (% of households) /

137 BASELINE STUDY AND STRATEGIC PLAN FOR DEVELOPMENT OF THE CROSS-BORDER REGION “PROKLETIJE- BJESHKËT E NAMUNA”

Coverage of the collection of solid waste (% of households) 50% Regional roads (km) 39 Local asphalted roads (km) 69.2 Local unpaved roads (km) 697 The availability of electricity (% of households with access) 163% The quality of electricity (% of households with three-phase supply) Number of local public transport lines % Of local communities covered by public transport The number of regional public transport lines The number of international lines of public transport Number of kindergartens 1 Number of elementary schools 2 Number of high schools 1 Number of universities (colleges) / Number of cinemas 1 Number of weekly cinema screenings Sporadic screenings Number of theatres 1 Number of theatre performances Sporadic performances Number of libraries 1 Number of swimming pools / Number sports grounds 2 TV signal coverage (% of households) 100% The coverage of mobile telephony 95% % Of households with Internet connection 11%

Structure of the economy GDP % of total A. Agriculture, hunting and forestry B. Fishery C. Mining and quarrying D. Manufacturing E. Electricity, gas, steam and air-conditioning supply F. Construction G. Wholesale and retail trade, repair of motor vehicles and motorcycles H. Services (Catering, Restaurants, Hotels, Tourism...) I. Transportation and storage J. Financial and insurance activities K. Real estate activities L. Public administration and defence, compulsory social security M. Education N. Human health services O. Other services

138 BASELINE STUDY AND STRATEGIC PLAN FOR DEVELOPMENT OF THE CROSS-BORDER REGION “PROKLETIJE- BJESHKËT E NAMUNA”

P. Activities of households as employers; undifferentiated goods- and ser- vices-producing activities of households for own use Q. Activities of extra-territorial organisations and bodies TOTAL

EUR Total investments Foreign total investments (FDI)

Total area (ha) Urbanised land (ha) 610 Agricultural land (ha) 13251 Arable land (ha) 8710 Sown land (ha) 72,4 Orchards (ha) 2.1 Vineyards (ha) / Meadows and Pastures (ha) 8494 Ponds and swamps (ha) 750 Forest land (ha) 17434 Deciduous forests (ha) 12726 Coniferous forests (ha) 4708

Agricultural cooperatives 1 Cooperatives

Hotels 2 Motels 1 Overnight stays 488(data from 2014) Foreign tourists 306 (data from 2014) Travel agencies /

Number Rural households 1417 Farms 1053 Cattle 1759 Milking cows 1132 Sheep 4901 Pigs 1475 Poultry 14703

139 BASELINE STUDY AND STRATEGIC PLAN FOR DEVELOPMENT OF THE CROSS-BORDER REGION “PROKLETIJE- BJESHKËT E NAMUNA”

MUNICIPAL ID CARD- DEÇAN Demographic data Male Female Total Population - total 20 019 20 000 40019 Population up to 15 19609 Population in active age (16 – 64) 18608 Population over 64 1800 Natural growth Population with primary education Population with secondary education Population with university education Population without primary education Pupils in elementary schools 3180 3000 6180 Pupils in secondary schools 2100 1287 2387 University students People who had left the area Returnees Employees People receiving social assistance Number of pensioners % of urban population 89

Civil society level of development Cultural and artistic clubs 12 Sport clubs 5 Organizations involved in environmental protection 2 Organizations that deal with socio-economic issues Others of importance

Natural and cultural heritage in the region Protected areas (ha, m2-list them) National parks (ha, m2-list them) Fishing zones (ha, m2, list them) Hunting grounds (ha, m2, list them) Number of recreation centres Number of ethno villages

Development of the infrastructure and institutions Water supply network (km) The coverage of water supply network in rural areas (%) Sewage network (km, or % of households with access) Sewage network coverage in rural areas (% of households) 80%

140 BASELINE STUDY AND STRATEGIC PLAN FOR DEVELOPMENT OF THE CROSS-BORDER REGION “PROKLETIJE- BJESHKËT E NAMUNA”

Coverage of the collection of solid waste (% of households) 80% Regional roads (km) 0.36 Local asphalted roads (km) 76% Local unpaved roads (km) 24% The availability of electricity (% of households with access) 100% The quality of electricity (% of households with three-phase supply) Number of local public transport lines % Of local communities covered by public transport The number of regional public transport lines The number of international lines of public transport Number of kindergartens 1 Number of elementary schools 2 Number of high schools 1 Number of universities (colleges) / Number of cinemas 1 Number of weekly cinema screenings Sporadic screenings Number of theatres 1 Number of theatre performances Sporadic performances Number of libraries 1 Number of swimming pools / Number sports grounds 2 TV signal coverage (% of households) 100% The coverage of mobile telephony 95% % Of households with Internet connection

Structure of the economy GDP % of total A. Agriculture, hunting and forestry B. Fishery C. Mining and quarrying D. Manufacturing E. Electricity, gas, steam and air-conditioning supply F. Construction G. Wholesale and retail trade, repair of motor vehicles and motorcycles H. Services (Catering, Restaurants, Hotels, Tourism...) I. Transportation and storage J. Financial and insurance activities K. Real estate activities L. Public administration and defence, compulsory social security M. Education N. Human health services O. Other services

141 BASELINE STUDY AND STRATEGIC PLAN FOR DEVELOPMENT OF THE CROSS-BORDER REGION “PROKLETIJE- BJESHKËT E NAMUNA”

P. Activities of households as employers; undifferentiated goods- and ser- vices-producing activities of households for own use Q. Activities of extra-territorial organisations and bodies TOTAL

EUR Total investments Foreign total investments (FDI)

Total area (ha) Urbanised land (ha) Agricultural land (ha) 18751 Arable land (ha) 10043 Sown land (ha) 180% Orchards (ha) Vineyards (ha) / Meadows and Pastures (ha) 8494 Ponds and swamps (ha) Forest land (ha) Deciduous forests (ha) Coniferous forests (ha)

Agricultural cooperatives Cooperatives

Hotels 10 Motels 5 Overnight stays Foreign tourists Travel agencies 5

Number Rural households Farms Cattle 1,56/ha Milking cows Sheep 0.67/ha Pigs Poultry

142 BASELINE STUDY AND STRATEGIC PLAN FOR DEVELOPMENT OF THE CROSS-BORDER REGION “PROKLETIJE- BJESHKËT E NAMUNA”

MUNICIPAL ID CARD- PEJË Demographic data Male Female Total Population - total 56400 40008 96448 Population up to 15 24690 Population in active age (16 – 64) 30863 Population over 64 41279 Natural growth Population with primary education Population with secondary education Population with university education Population without primary education Pupils in elementary schools 6180 Pupils in secondary schools 2397 University students People who had left the area Returnees Employees People receiving social assistance Number of pensioners % of urban population 51%

Civil society level of development Cultural and artistic clubs 8 Sport clubs 3 Organizations involved in environmental protection 5 Organizations that deal with socio-economic issues Others of importance

Natural and cultural heritage in the region Protected areas (ha, m2-list them) National parks (ha, m2-list them) Fishing zones (ha, m2, list them) Hunting grounds (ha, m2, list them) Number of recreation centres Number of ethno villages

Development of the infrastructure and institutions Water supply network (km) 100% The coverage of water supply network in rural areas (%) Sewage network (km, or % of households with access) Sewage network coverage in rural areas (% of households)

143 BASELINE STUDY AND STRATEGIC PLAN FOR DEVELOPMENT OF THE CROSS-BORDER REGION “PROKLETIJE- BJESHKËT E NAMUNA”

Coverage of the collection of solid waste (% of households) Regional roads (km) 074 Local asphalted roads (km) 76% Local unpaved roads (km) 24% The availability of electricity (% of households with access) 100% The quality of electricity (% of households with three-phase supply) Number of local public transport lines % Of local communities covered by public transport The number of regional public transport lines The number of international lines of public transport Number of kindergartens 1 Number of elementary schools 19 Number of high schools 3 Number of universities (colleges) 1 Number of cinemas Number of weekly cinema screenings Number of theatres Number of theatre performances Number of libraries Number of swimming pools Number sports grounds TV signal coverage (% of households) 100% The coverage of mobile telephony 95% % Of households with Internet connection

Structure of the economy GDP % of total A. Agriculture, hunting and forestry B. Fishery C. Mining and quarrying D. Manufacturing E. Electricity, gas, steam and air-conditioning supply F. Construction G. Wholesale and retail trade, repair of motor vehicles and motorcycles H. Services (Catering, Restaurants, Hotels, Tourism...) I. Transportation and storage J. Financial and insurance activities K. Real estate activities L. Public administration and defence, compulsory social security M. Education N. Human health services O. Other services

144 BASELINE STUDY AND STRATEGIC PLAN FOR DEVELOPMENT OF THE CROSS-BORDER REGION “PROKLETIJE- BJESHKËT E NAMUNA”

P. Activities of households as employers; undifferentiated goods- and ser- vices-producing activities of households for own use Q. Activities of extra-territorial organisations and bodies TOTAL

EUR Total investments Foreign total investments (FDI)

Total area (ha) Urbanised land (ha) 1365 Agricultural land (ha) 21024 Arable land (ha) Sown land (ha) Orchards (ha) Vineyards (ha) / Meadows and Pastures (ha) Ponds and swamps (ha) Forest land (ha) Deciduous forests (ha) Coniferous forests (ha)

Agricultural cooperatives Cooperatives

Hotels 10 Motels 0 Overnight stays Foreign tourists Travel agencies

Number Rural households Farms 6038 Cattle 3632 Milking cows Sheep 214 Pigs Poultry

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