A €4 billion coastal project stretching along 450 kilometres of Albania’s Mediterranean shoreline and linked to Jared Kushner has sparked protests, raised environmental concerns, and led to questions about corruption.
Toye Faleye
For the third day in a row, people in Albania’s capital have protested a luxury resort project connected to Jared Kushner, son-in-law of U.S. President Donald Trump.
Demonstrators filled the streets of Tirana, carrying cardboard cut-outs of pink flamingos to represent the wildlife they believe is at risk.
The government says the Adriatic coast development will change Albania’s tourism industry. Leaders believe it will help Albania’s efforts to join the European Union.
Prime Minister Edi Rama supports the project and has called it “extraordinary.” He promises the project will continue as long as he is in office.
However, the project covers the Narta Lagoon nature reserve and the uninhabited island of Sazan. This has led to strong opposition.
Environmental groups warn that important habitats for migratory birds are being permanently damaged. Excavators have already begun clearing land, cutting into sand dunes, and fencing off areas that were protected for biodiversity.
Public anger increased after a video showed private security guards dragging an activist away during a protest at the site.
Protesters say that selling Albania’s mostly untouched 450-kilometre coastline to powerful investors weakens environmental protections and damages trust in the community.
The resort will have hotels, villas, apartments, and a marina. Kushner’s investment firm has been given special investor status by Albanian authorities.
Critics argue this avoids normal safeguards and raises concerns about corruption. Albania’s state anti-corruption agency has confirmed it is investigating, but has not shared details.
Controversy echoes a failed Kushner-linked project in Serbia. There, prosecutors charged officials with abuse of office and falsifying documents.
These moves enabled the construction of a luxury complex. Kushner later withdrew. The effort left behind a warning story of legal troubles and public criticism.
In Albania, much is at stake. The government sees the project as a step toward high-end tourism and attracting global investment.
Protesters view it as a fight for sovereignty, accountability, and the protection of fragile ecosystems. Flamingos have become a symbol of resistance.
The conflict over Albania’s Adriatic coast is now about more than tourism—it is about who will shape the country’s future.
