Thousands of demonstrators gathered in Albania's capital, Tirana, on Wednesday in the largest protest so far against a controversial luxury resort project backed by Jared Kushner, the son-in-law of Donald Trump.
The protesters marched through the city carrying banners reading "Albania Is Not for Sale" and chanting slogans demanding political change. The rally stretched along one of Tirana’s main boulevards and culminated outside the office of Prime Minister Edi Rama.
The proposed €5 billion ($5.8 billion) resort is planned for the coastal area of Zvernec in southern Albania, near a protected wetland that serves as a habitat for flamingos, seals, and nesting sea turtles. Environmental groups and local residents argue that the project threatens a sensitive ecosystem and accuse authorities of failing to provide sufficient transparency regarding the development.
The growing movement, known as the "Flamingo Revolution," takes its name from the flamingos that migrate through the protected wetland. Demonstrators carried inflatable flamingos as a symbol of resistance against the project.
"We have had enough," said one protester, criticizing decades of political and economic decisions that many Albanians believe have favored powerful interests over local communities.
Prime Minister Rama dismissed concerns that the development would damage the environment, stating that a full environmental impact assessment would be completed before construction proceeds. He maintained that Albania remains committed to protecting its wildlife and natural resources.
The controversy has also attracted attention from the European Union, which has warned that Albania must comply with European environmental standards as part of its bid to join the bloc by 2030. EU officials urged Albanian authorities to avoid actions that could jeopardize environmental protections.
The protests come amid broader public dissatisfaction with the government over allegations of corruption and concerns about public services. Although the government has launched anti-corruption investigations and reforms, many citizens remain skeptical.
The resort project was conceived by Jared Kushner and his wife, Ivanka Trump, who have previously spoken about their admiration for Albania after visiting the country by yacht several years ago.
Despite mounting opposition, Prime Minister Rama has reiterated that the resort project will move forward. The dispute is expected to remain a major political issue as Albania balances economic development ambitions with environmental and public concerns.
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