TIRANA, Albania — Protests continued for a seventh day in Albania on Saturday against a luxury resort development backed by Jared Kushner’s investment firm on the country’s Adriatic coast, with demonstrators citing environmental risks to protected areas.
Hundreds to thousands of people rallied in the capital Tirana and near the southern coastal site, carrying pink flamingo symbols to highlight concerns over wildlife habitats in the Vjosa-Narta protected landscape and Sazan Island, authorities and organizers said. Some clashes with police occurred earlier in the week, including the use of water cannons.
The project, valued at approximately $1.4 billion for the island portion with broader coastal plans, involves transforming the uninhabited Sazan Island — a former military base — and adjacent wetlands into hotels, villas, apartments and a marina. Kushner’s Affinity Partners is a key backer through affiliated entities, according to project details and reports.
Prime Minister Edi Rama has defended the development, stating it will bring investment and jobs to the country. He offered to discuss solutions with opponents but rejected calls to halt the project.
Environmental groups argue that groundwork already underway threatens irreversible damage to ecologically sensitive zones, including flamingo habitats, sea turtle nesting sites and marine areas within a national park. Albania’s state anti-corruption agency has opened an investigation into aspects of the land approvals, though details remain limited.
A project representative emphasized responsible development and benefits to local communities. “Our focus remains on responsible stewardship, environmental enhancement, job creation and creating long-term value,” the statement said.
Protesters have demanded greater transparency and a stop to construction in the protected zones. Some carried signs opposing what they call the sale of Albanian natural heritage.
The Albanian government granted strategic investor status to the project in late 2024 or early 2025. Ivanka Trump, Kushner’s wife, visited the site in January with architects.
Opponents rejected the prime minister’s dialogue offer, vowing to intensify demonstrations. Further rallies are planned near the southern development area.
The situation remains fluid as authorities monitor protests and the anti-corruption probe continues. Details on the project’s full timeline and any adjustments following public pressure were not immediately available.
