Society for the Protection of Prespa

The Society for the Protection of Prespa was founded in 1991 and it was the first coordinated effort on environmental organisations for the protection of the area. The formal initiative was undertaken by the ‘Friends of Prespa’ and WWF International and so, in 1991, the Society SPP was created with the participation of ten environmental organisations.
Since 1991 the SPP has systematically and effectively contributed to the protection of natural and cultural heritage throughout the entire Prespa basin, by means of a wide range of projects jointly promoting viable development and the harmonious co-existence of man and nature. Its activities aim to secure the appropriate management of natural resources, sustainable forms of development, the protection of threatened species and the informing and awareness-raising of the public. From the beginning the SPP has understood quite clearly that to safeguard Prespa’s exceptional heritage and promote viable development in the area requires the harmonious cooperation and involvement of the three states that share the lakes - FYROM, Albania and Greece. Accordingly its efforts have been guided by this principle, aiming wherever possible to emphasise their transboundary nature.

Today the SPP is an environmental organisation whose work is internationally recognised. The organisation is based in the villages of Agios Germanos and Laimos in Prespa, and its accomplishments are based on the dynamic work of its resident staff, many of whom are native to the region.

Basic principles which govern the work of the SPP:
-Transboundary activity: The protection and viable development of Prespa requires the participation and harmonious cooperation of the three states that share the area - Greece, FYROM and Albania. Consequently, issues need to be addressed from their transboundary, environmental, social and developmental aspects, and projects require development at a transboundary level.
-Cooperation between individuals and organisations: Close collaboration between the residents of Prespa and organisations at local, national and transboundary levels, fosters a mutual understanding of the issues and a common approach to viable solutions.