The Albania Security Report published by the Overseas Security Advisory Council (OSAC), a US State Department structure that compiles security assessments for US citizens and businesses abroad, brings for the first time a direct reference to the island of Sazan, linking it to one of the most important developments of 2026 in Albania. The report states that protests against the planned tourist resort project in Sazan began as environmental demonstrations, but then took on national proportions and turned into protests against government corruption.
According to the document, the police intervention to disperse the protesters led to the mobilization of thousands of citizens in several cities of the country, while some of the demonstrations ended with episodes of violence. The report includes this development in its analysis of political stability and security in Albania, calling it one of the most significant events of 2026. Beyond political developments, the report highlights that the main threat to visitors to Albania continues to be crime.
According to OSAC, crime increased by about 17% during 2025, with the greatest impact from crimes related to drug trafficking, fraud and criminal offenses involving weapons. The report emphasizes that Albania continues to have a significant presence of organized crime. The document describes the existence of criminal networks involved in drug trafficking, money laundering, human trafficking, extortion, prostitution and corruption.
Another element that is highlighted is the fact that a portion of the illegal weapons and explosives circulating in Europe originate from or transit through Albanian territory, while the Albanian authorities have increased their efforts to crack down on these networks. The report also recalls the protests that followed the 2025 parliamentary elections, which were characterized by large marches in Tirana, blockades of the "Martyrs of the Nation" boulevard, and the use of pyrotechnic devices, including Molotov cocktails thrown at buildings.
OSAC estimates that demonstrations in Albania are common and when they start peacefully, they can quickly escalate into violent incidents, advising American travelers to avoid them. A separate chapter of the report is dedicated to cybersecurity. The document estimates that Albania remains a target of attacks by state actors, directly mentioning Iran and Russia.
According to the report, Iran carried out cyberattacks on Albanian state websites and systems in 2026. OSAC warns that such attacks could disrupt critical infrastructure and the functioning of public services, creating widespread consequences for the country. Although Tirana is classified as a medium-risk area for terrorism against US interests, the report notes that Albania has not experienced any successful terrorist attacks in the last decade.
The report assesses that corruption in administration, justice and public procurement, the lack of transparency, as well as the influence of powerful political and economic interests, continue to be considered serious obstacles to strengthening the rule of law.
“Albania has a strong legal framework to combat corruption and prevent conflicts of interest of public officials and politicians, including their family members. However, foreign investors cite corruption, including in the judiciary, government, public procurement and the media, the lack of transparency and competition, the large informal economy and weak contract enforcement, as some of the biggest problems hindering the business environment in Albania. Impunity remains a serious problem. With the establishment of SPAK in 2019, the arrest and prosecution of officials who commit abuses is increasing; however, many officials, politicians, judges and persons with powerful business interests are still able to evade prosecution. Corruption continues to be a serious problem in detention centres and prisons, particularly in relation to access to work and special release programmes,” the report states.
In conclusion, OSAC recommends that U.S. citizens exercise increased caution while in Albania, avoid protests, beware of theft and scams, use licensed taxis, limit nighttime driving, and obtain health insurance before traveling.
