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ON THE BANKS

(Në Bregun)


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Stills, ON THE BANKS (Në Bregun), 2021



Set within Albania's accursed mountains, ON THE BANKS (Në Bregun) explores the potential of traditional community participation systems to make green development just

A debut short documentary produced by an all-female team

For inquiries, please contact the team directly at onthebanksofdemocracy@gmail.com or check out our instagram for the latest updates. 







BTS from ON THE BANKS (Në Bregun) production (2021)





On the Banks (Në Bregun) is set in Nikaj Mertur, a cluster of 12 villages in Northern Albania's Gjakova highlands. Governed for centuries by the Kanun, a set of customary laws promoting equitable sharing of natural resources and collective decision-making, this community now faces the challenge of state-sanctioned hydropower development. The Albanian government’s plans to allow foreign development of hydropower plants on local rivers, including potentially one in Nikaj Mertur, have sparked international controversy due to the lack of community involvement and adverse environmental impacts.

The film centres on Afrim Gjerji, a father, school teacher, and activist, with a stream of friends that speak to the tension between traditional practices and modern development. Pjeter Leka, whose land was taken for a hydropower plant without compensation, and Gjovalin, a hydropower plant worker, highlight the companies' refusal to consult locals. Fran, an Upper Curraj resident, contrasts the sustainable and equitable irrigation practices of the Kanun with the monopolistic nature of new hydropower projects. Ndrek, an agricultural worker, criticises the government for prioritising financial gain over public consultation, accusing officials of bribery and fraudulent practices.

Catherine Bohne, an American activist and writer who has lived in Albania for many years and dedicated much of her life to fighting for the future of Nikaj Mertur, explores what is at stake in Albania’s pursuit of green development and EU accession. Further, Bohne argues that ancient principles of community involvement and environmental respect from the Kanun offer valuable lessons for contemporary energy transition debates, particularly on how to ensure a Just and nature positive transition.

By presenting these two narratives side-by-side, the film aims to introduce new perspectives into European discussions around sustainable development. Could the true irony be that, in our quest for sustainability, we eliminate the community traditions that have long exemplified it?

- Synopsis, ON THE BANKS (Në Bregun), by Nako Thompson















Stills, ON THE BANKS (Në Bregun), 2021