Protests in Albania over a proposed luxury resort backed by Jared Kushner, Donald Trump's son-in-law, are escalating after opponents rejected an offer from Prime Minister Edi Rama to discuss solutions. Thousands marched in Tirana for a third consecutive day on Wednesday, some carrying inflatable flamingos to highlight environmental concerns. Further protests are planned in southern Albania, where groundwork on the $1.6bn complex has begun in a protected coastal area.
Conservation groups say work has started without proper permits or public consultation. Aleksandr Trajce, executive director of the Protection and Preservation of the Natural Environment in Albania (PPNEA), stated: "From start to finish there has been a total lack of transparency. We have seen no public consultation or public documentation regarding permits." He called for the removal of bulldozers and restoration of habitats before any dialogue.
Prime Minister Rama defended the project, saying it will bring jobs and investment to Albania, one of Europe's poorest countries. He proposed meeting protesters but insisted: "There is absolutely no chance that the investment will stop as long as I am here." The resort, developed by Kushner's Affinity Partners and Sazan Real Estate Development LLC, targets the uninhabited island of Sazan and surrounding wetlands in a marine national park.
The area is home to endangered species including the Mediterranean monk seal and over 200 bird species, such as flamingos and Dalmatian pelicans. Workmen have erected a barbed wire fence and installed private security, angering locals who cannot access their land. Trajce said: "It's gone beyond being an environmental issue now. It's a citizen thing."
Albania's anti-corruption body, SPAK, has launched an inquiry into legislative changes adopted in 2024 regarding protected areas. Developers insist they will act responsibly. Asher Abehsera, chair of Sazan Real Estate Development LLC, said: "Our focus remains on responsible stewardship, environmental enhancement, job creation, and creating long-term value for local communities."
