Cultural and Environmental Tourism:
Albania has made strides in establishing the foundations of democratic institutions and a market economy, including its 1998 Constitution. In 2000, Albania became a member of the World Trade Organisation, which illustrates its determination to build an open and integrated economy.

And yet it remains Europe's last "unknown" country -- in part, because it is not an easy tourism destination for international markets to understand. But the fact that the country maintains a cultural "authenticity" with its wide range of historic and natural attractions could hold great allure for the outside world.

With this in view, Albania has turned its focus to tourism development. In the process, the quality of life of a significant number of Albanians could be improved -- in tune with the country’s commitment to the Millennium Development Goals.

Here and elsewhere, culture and environment can be important parts of the tourism industry, and a boon to rural communities. IPS examines this approach -- and to what extent it finds success -- using Albania as a case study in a globalised world.