Gea Baduni1
Abstract. This paper provides a comprehensive policy-oriented analysis of water resources management in Albania in the context of European Union (EU) water directives. Drawing on national strategic documents, monitoring data, and sectoral analyses, the study examines water availability, water quality, infrastructure gaps, institutional arrangements, and investment needs. The findings reveal that while Albania is relatively rich in water resources, significant challenges persist in terms of water quality deterioration, groundwater depletion, insufficient wastewater treatment, and institutional fragmentation. The paper further evaluates Albania’s progress in aligning with key EU directives, including the Water Framework Directive, Groundwater Directive, and Urban Wastewater Treatment Directive. Although substantial progress has been made in legislative approximation and strategic planning, implementation gaps remain considerable. The study concludes that achieving full compliance will require large-scale investments, improved governance, and a transition toward integrated and data-driven water management.
Keywords: Water management, Albania, EU directives, groundwater, wastewater
DOI 10.56082/annalsarscieco.2026.1.4
1 Faculty of Civil Engineering, Albania, Corresponding author gea-gjinali@hotmail.com
PUBLISHED in Annals Academy of Romanian Scientists Series on Economy, Law, Sociology, Volume 9 no 1, 2026