TIRANA — A luxury tourism project backed by a company linked to the family of U.S. businessman Jared Kushner continued to face opposition in Albania on Monday, as protesters, environmental groups and some local residents renewed concerns about planned developments along the country's southern Adriatic coast.
The project, led by Kushner’s investment firm Affinity Partners, includes a proposed resort on Sazan Island and a separate coastal development near the Vjosa-Narta protected landscape, according to Albanian authorities and company representatives. Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama's government has promoted the investment as a major tourism initiative intended to attract foreign capital and expand the country's high-end tourism sector.
Opposition to the development has grown in recent weeks, with demonstrations taking place in the capital, Tirana, and other locations. Protesters have raised concerns about potential environmental impacts on protected wetlands and coastal habitats that are home to flamingos, sea turtles and other wildlife, environmental organizations said.
Thousands of people have participated in protests since early June, according to media reports and protest organizers. Demonstrators have carried signs reading “Nation is not for sale” and called on authorities to halt the project pending further review.
Environmental groups argue that parts of the planned development could affect sensitive ecosystems. Critics have also questioned the transparency of planning and land-use decisions related to the project. Details regarding some aspects of the approval process remain disputed.
Affinity Partners has said it intends to develop the project responsibly. “Our focus remains on responsible stewardship, environmental enhancement, job creation, and creating long-term value for local communities,” the company said in a statement cited by Reuters earlier this month.
The Albanian government has defended the project, saying it would create jobs, attract investment and help position Albania as a premium tourism destination. Rama has said the development will proceed despite criticism, according to statements reported by international media outlets.
The controversy has drawn international attention as Albania continues efforts to advance its European Union membership aspirations. Some European officials and environmental advocates have urged authorities to ensure that development plans comply with environmental standards and regulatory requirements.
As of Monday, protests against the development were continuing, while Albanian authorities maintained support for the project. Investigations and reviews related to environmental and land-use concerns remained ongoing, according to officials and media reports.
