Lake Prespa: An Environmental Crisis

Lake Prespa, a significant body of water shared by North Macedonia, Albania, and Greece, is facing a critical threat of disappearance due to the impacts of climate change. In response to this looming environmental disaster, non-governmental organizations from these Balkan nations have come together to establish the Forum for the Development of the Prespa Region.

Ljupco Krstevski, representing the North Macedonian NGO Eurothink, emphasized the urgent need for collaborative action, stating, “A lot of research has been conducted, and strategic documents have been put in place. However, the key lies in the implementation of these measures. The citizens are keenly aware of the situation and are looking towards the three states to take immediate and effective steps.”

During the Forum, insights were shared by representatives of the Lake Constance Foundation, drawing parallels with their successful management of an ecosystem shared by Switzerland, Germany, and Austria. The foundation highlighted the importance of local involvement and influence in driving policy decisions, citing the impactful political agreement signed in the 1960s to protect Lake Constance.

Volker Kromrey from the Constance Lake Foundation underlined the role of civil society in advocating for change, stating, “Civil society plays a crucial role in prompting policymakers to enforce agreements and prioritize environmental conservation.”

Lake Constance and Lake Prespa stand out as the only locations in Europe where the waters are shared by three countries, underscoring the significance of cross-border collaboration in tackling environmental challenges.

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