Mountain protected areas (MPAs) in the Dinaric Alps represent some of Europe’s untouched wilderness areas, characterized by rich biodiversity, cultural heterogeneity, and low levels of anthropogenic disturbance. These protected areas possess significant socio-economic potential, particularly for revitalizing rural communities facing economic stagnation, migration, and limited job opportunities. This study is focused on the southern part of the Dinaric Alps, along the borders of Albania, Kosovo, and Montenegro and aims to examine the management practices employed within national parks. Central to this analysis are landscape transformations and the various factors driving these changes, as well as the influence of local cultural traditions and identities on conservation efforts and land-use planning. These national parks are relatively recently recognised and face several challenges, including legal ambiguities, sustainable management, and conflicts among diverse stakeholder groups, especially between tourism development and conservation priorities. As national policies and regional development strategies evolve, the functional role of protected areas is being reinterpreted, impacting local economies and community livelihoods. Addressing these complex issues requires a holistic, transboundary approach that bridges cultural, political, and economic boundaries within the region. Integrating top-down approaches with participatory, bottom-up approaches may offer a pathway to more sustainable and inclusive management, fostering socio-economic development while maintaining ecological integrity. The initial phase of this research focuses on discussing these thematic areas, laying the foundation for further empirical investigations into landscape change, stakeholder engagement, and policy integration. This study aims to contribute to a deeper understanding of how these protected areas can serve as effective tools for balancing ecological conservation with sustainable regional development, promoting resilience and prosperity in mountain communities.