Summary
- Despite the criticism, Prime Minister Rama has continued to defend the project, describing it as a significant opportunity for economic growth and tourism development.
- Project developers have also stated that they are committed to responsible environmental management and sustainable development practices.
- However, following widespread public opposition, the Serbia project was eventually abandoned, a precedent that has encouraged many Albanian activists to continue their campaign against the coastal resort development.
Thousands of demonstrators gathered in the Albanian capital, Tirana, on Thursday evening to protest against a proposed luxury resort development along a protected section of the country’s Adriatic coastline. The demonstration was the largest in a series of protests held this week, reflecting growing public concern over the environmental impact of the project and its connection to prominent international investors.
The €1.4 billion ($1.6 billion) development is being spearheaded by Affinity Partners, an investment firm founded by Jared Kushner, the son-in-law of Donald Trump. The project is planned for an island off Albania’s coast as well as an undeveloped shoreline near the protected Vjosa-Narta wetland in southern Albania.
Environmental groups have strongly opposed the proposal, arguing that it threatens one of the country’s most ecologically valuable coastal regions. The Vjosa-Narta area is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including flamingos, Mediterranean monk seals, and sea turtles that use the coastline as a nesting ground. Conservationists warn that construction activities could damage several hundred hectares of pristine beaches and disturb the habitats of thousands of migratory birds that pass through the region each year.
Public anger intensified after reports emerged that preliminary construction work had begun and heavy machinery had arrived at the site. These developments sparked local protests that quickly expanded into larger demonstrations in Tirana. During Thursday’s rally, protesters gathered outside the office of Prime Minister Edi Rama, carrying pink inflatable flamingos as a symbol of the threatened wildlife. Demonstrators chanted slogans such as “Stop the project” and “Revolution,” while some displayed signs calling for the prime minister’s resignation.
Among the protesters was writer Lindita Komani, who criticized the government for supporting the development. She argued that Albania’s natural and cultural heritage belongs to its people and should not be sacrificed for commercial interests. Many participants echoed similar concerns, accusing authorities of prioritizing investment opportunities over environmental protection.
Despite the criticism, Prime Minister Rama has continued to defend the project, describing it as a significant opportunity for economic growth and tourism development. Project developers have also stated that they are committed to responsible environmental management and sustainable development practices.
Meanwhile, Albania’s Economy and Innovation Minister, Delina Ibrahimaj, said environmental impact assessments are currently being prepared. She stressed that any final approval would require full compliance with Albanian environmental laws and relevant European conservation standards. According to government officials, legal safeguards are in place to protect the lagoon and surrounding habitats from harmful development.
The resort proposal was first announced by Kushner in 2024 as part of a broader regional investment strategy. That initiative also included plans to redevelop a former military headquarters in Belgrade. However, following widespread public opposition, the Serbia project was eventually abandoned, a precedent that has encouraged many Albanian activists to continue their campaign against the coastal resort development.
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