Spatial Justice and Equitable Development in the Prespa Lake Borderland: A Transboundary Analysis

This paper examines spatial justice in cross-border areas, specifically focusing on regions outside of Europe. Spatial justice refers to fair access to resources, services, and opportunities for diverse communities. While much of the current literature centers on European contexts, this study aims to fill the gap in understanding spatial justice in non-European cross-border settings. The research focuses on the Prespa Lake borderland, a tri-national area involving Albania, Greece, and North Macedonia. The study emphasizes that governance fragmentation in these regions can worsen socio-economic inequalities and environmental issues. The Prespa basin is known for its rich biodiversity but faces significant challenges, including declining water levels and pollution, which disproportionately impact local communities. The paper explores the theoretical foundations of spatial justice and assesses existing cooperation mechanisms within the Prespa context. Key findings indicate ongoing distributional, procedural, and recognition injustices, resulting in unequal access to resources, inadequate infrastructure, and the marginalization of minority communities. To promote equitable and sustainable development, the study recommends strengthening transboundary governance frameworks, enhancing stakeholder participation, and establishing fair resource management protocols. By encouraging collaboration among local communities, governments, and NGOs, the report seeks to tackle the underlying causes of spatial injustice in the region. Ultimately, this analysis highlights the necessity of incorporating spatial justice principles into policy and practice to create a fairer and more sustainable future for the Prespa Lake borderland.