UNESCO Flags Europe’s Ancient Lake Ohrid as At-Risk Site

Lake Ohrid, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1979 and one of Europe’s oldest natural lakes, is now at risk of losing its protected status due to years of mismanagement, pollution, and uncontrolled tourism.

Shared between North Macedonia and Albania, the lake is home to over 200 unique species and supports ancient ecosystems that have existed for more than 3 million years. As a major tourist destination, Ohrid attracts thousands each summer, but that popularity comes at a cost.

UNESCO has issued multiple warnings in recent years about overbuilding along the lakefront, inadequate infrastructure, and weak environmental enforcement. Three inspection teams (in 2017, 2020, and 2024) concluded that both governmental inaction and unregulated development have degraded the lake’s “Outstanding Universal Value”, the very reason it was granted World Heritage status.

Environmental advocates argue that urgent reforms and stronger cross-border cooperation between North Macedonia and Albania are essential to save the lake. Without action, one of the Balkans’ most precious natural and cultural landmarks may be lost.