Protests have erupted on an island in Albania, home to hundreds of internationally threatened species, over plans for a luxury resort backed by the family of US President Donald Trump. The proposed development, championed by Ivanka Trump and her husband Jared Kushner, threatens a wildlife-rich nature reserve in one of Europe's poorest nations.
Flamingo Haven Under Threat
The Vjosa-Narta protected landscape, a dynamic delta of marshes, dunes, lagoons, and salt pans, hosts about 12% of Albania's wintering waterbirds and species like Eurasian otters, loggerhead sea turtles, and flamingos. Unpublished data shows 279 of 2,529 species in the delta are internationally threatened. Aleksandër Trajçe, executive director of PPNEA, Albania's largest conservation group, said the area's status as a wildlife sanctuary sparked the outrage. "If you want to see the Mediterranean as it used to be, this is one of the last spots," he said.
Protests and Legal Concerns
Nearly two weeks of fierce protests followed the arrival of fences and heavy machinery in the Pishë Poro–Nartë protected area. The project lacks planning permission and an environmental impact assessment. The Albanian government claims works are for technical surveys, but Trajçe said, "The bulldozers are really progressing. They're destroying the dunes. It's really a wild west situation."
Tourism vs. Environment
Albania, among Europe's poorest countries, attracted a record 12 million tourists in 2025. However, critics say the government's tourism push disregards nature protection. In 2022, it redrew protected area borders for Vlora airport, and in 2024, it loosened conservation laws for five-star hotels. The European Commission urged Albania to comply with environmental rules for EU membership, and 96 civil society groups demanded repeal of the 2024 amendment.
Developer Response
Ivanka Trump described the project as a challenge and culmination of her real estate experience. The developer, Sazan Real Estate Development LLC, said it respects public processes and focuses on responsible stewardship. The prime minister's office said fencing private property is lawful and disputed reducing the protected area. A spokesperson for the partners involved declined to comment on scale. Arup, the engineering firm, said it completed its work last year.
Ecological Impact
Scientists warn the ecosystem, though not unspoiled, is relatively untouched compared to other Mediterranean areas. Biologist Aleko Miho said planes, cars, and construction would disturb the area. "The birds will fly away, for sure," he concluded.
