The Security Report for Albania published by the Overseas Security Advisory Council (OSAC), a structure of the US Department of State that drafts security assessments for American citizens and businesses abroad, brings for the first time a direct reference to Sazan Island, linking it to one of the most important developments of 2026 in Albania.
The report states that the protests against the planned tourist resort project in Sazan began as demonstrations of an environmental nature, but then took on national proportions and turned into protests against government corruption.
According to the document, the intervention of the police to disperse the protesters led to the mobilization of thousands of citizens in several cities of the country, while some of the demonstrations ended in 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.
Crime remains the main concern
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 drug-related crimes, fraud and criminal offenses involving weapons. Meanwhile, robberies fell by about 21%, while violent crimes and homicides also recorded a decrease for the fifth consecutive year.
However, the report notes 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 evident is the fact that a portion of the illegal weapons and explosives circulating in Europe originate from or transit through Albanian territory, while Albanian authorities have increased efforts to crack down on these networks.
Political protests and tensions
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, even when they begin peacefully, can quickly escalate into violent incidents, advising American travelers to avoid them.
Albania under threat of cyber attacks
A separate chapter of the report is dedicated to cybersecurity. The document assesses 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 during 2026. OSAC warns that such attacks could compromise critical infrastructure and the functioning of public services, creating widespread consequences for the country.
Terrorism and security
Although Tirana is classified as a medium-risk area for terrorism against U.S. interests, the report notes that Albania has not experienced any successful terrorist attacks in the past decade.
However, attention is paid to the risk associated with the radicalization of returnees from Syria, as well as Iran-linked activities against the MEK organization camp in Albania.
Corruption and the rule of law
The report assesses that Albania has made progress in the fight against corruption, especially after the establishment of SPAK, which cooperates closely with international partners. However, 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.
What does the report advise?
In conclusion, OSAC recommends that U.S. citizens exercise increased caution while in Albania, avoid protests, beware of theft and fraud, use licensed taxis, limit nighttime driving, and obtain health insurance before traveling.
Although the report highlights improvements in international cooperation between Albanian institutions and in the fight against organized crime, it concludes that criminality, corruption, road safety, and cyber threats remain the main challenges to security in Albania.
