Border communities unite to protect the Shar Mountains

A cross-border initiative brings together local people and park authorities to preserve the nature and culture of the Shar Mountains through rural tourism and education

Farmers from Macedonia, Albania and Kosovo display their products from the year. They have joined forces with other organisations and farmers to protect this area, which is protected in all three countries. © Veli Veliu
Sheep farmers in the Shar Mountains describe the challenges they face in the region. The initiative targeted a focus group of farmers to provide some equipment and capacity building on marketing strategies. © Diturim Xheladini
Hikers rest on a hill overlooking one of Shar's mountain ranges. The local mountaineering club, the Ljuboten Club, has been organising hikes in the area since 1925. © Jovan Bozhinovski

In the heart of the Shar Mountains, the unique cross-border project “Empowering communities in the Shar Mt. region for sustainable management in North Macedonia and Kosovo”, funded by BESTbelt, turns local communities into champions of conservation. Although divided by the ridge of the Shar Mountains, communities on either side of the Kosovo and North Macedonian border are united by the goal of protecting the natural and cultural heritage of the region.

The project focused on rural tourism, sustainable development, and education. Over 600 residents took part in activities such as youth trainings, community forums, and environmental events. Young people gained skills in entrepreneurship and cultural preservation, while students deepened their understanding of the region’s natural values. Cross-border collaboration also helped promote eco-tourism and empowered local businesses.

By building trust between local communities and park authorities, the project laid the foundation for long-term cooperation in managing the Shar Mountain National Park—helping ensure a sustainable future for this vital part of the Balkan Green Belt.

 

The EU-funded BESTbelt transboundary project “Empowering Communities in the Shar Mt. region for Sustainable Green Belt Management“ was implemented by the Center for Education and Development in partnership with the Macedonian Ecological Society and Local Action Group Sharri - Kosovo from November 2023 to February 2025.

Contact details: Metin Muaremi (Center for Education and Development), metin.muaremi@gmail.com