Thousands protest in Albania against Jared Kushner-backed luxury resort plan

Thousands of protesters have gathered in Albania, particularly in the capital Tirana and the southern coastal area of Zvërnec, to voice strong opposition against a proposed luxury resort project. The development is reportedly linked to Jared Kushner's investment firm, Affinity Partners, and involves plans for sites on the uninhabited Sazan Island and within the ecologically sensitive Vjosa-Narta protected wetland landscape. Protesters are demanding the government halt the project, citing significant environmental concerns for the area, which serves as a crucial habitat for various endangered species and migratory birds.

The widespread demonstrations escalated following reports of barbed-wire fences blocking public beach access and clashes between private security and activists, with concerns also extending to a perceived lack of transparency and public consultation regarding the development. Albania's Special Prosecution Office Against Corruption and Organized Crime (SPAK) has initiated an investigation into the land acquisition and legislative changes made in 2024 that reportedly altered the protected status of parts of the proposed development sites. Critics have also drawn parallels to a previous Kushner-linked project in Serbia that was abandoned amid corruption allegations.

Despite the growing public outcry, Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama has defended the €1.4 billion project, emphasizing its potential for economic growth and high-end tourism. He affirmed the investment would proceed, even as protestors rejected his offer for dialogue and announced further gatherings. Developers associated with the project, including Sazan Real Estate Development LLC, maintain a commitment to responsible stewardship, environmental enhancement, and job creation for local communities.