From the Forum for the Protection of Cultural Heritage
The country's Prime Minister must understand that the TID project, conceived and created by his former Minister of Culture, Kumbaro, and the Albanian-American Fund, has failed to create a project that truly helps the Durrës community, as well as the city's cultural heritage.
Below are some thoughts on the topic:
1. Lack of community consultation.
A project that directly affects residents and the identity of the city must go through:
a) real public consultations,
b) transparency on documentation,
c) involvement of local heritage experts.
The lack of this process undermines public trust and the legitimacy of the project.
2. Relocation of residents from the Amphitheater area
The Durrës Amphitheater is not an isolated monument, but an organic part of the ancient city and continuous urban history and interventions must respect historical continuity,
a) any project that envisages relocation must be justified by a clear and proportionate public interest,
b) the indigenous community is as much a part of the heritage as the monument itself.
3. Precedent of previous interventions
The project known as “Veliera” in Durrës has been the subject of public debate and criticism by heritage experts for its impact on the archaeological strata of the city. This precedent is seen as an argument for a lack of institutional sensitivity towards cultural heritage in Durrës.
4. Reference to UNESCO
UNESCO has clear criteria for inclusion in the World Heritage List:
a) authenticity and integrity of the property,
b) approved management plan,
c) effective legal protection,
d) involvement of the local community.
Without a complete nomination file and clear documentation, UNESCO's mention remains declarative. The application process is technical, multi-year, and requires detailed preparation.
5. International standards for community displacement
International institutions typically require full consultation, fair housing alternatives, fair compensation, and respect for property rights. A project that is perceived as forcibly displacing indigenous people would face serious difficulties in gaining international support.
Editorial
