Albania: Tens of thousands protest against luxury resort project linked to Trump

Tirana – 25.06.2026: In recent weeks, tens of thousands of people in Albania have protested against a luxury resort construction project along the Adriatic coast, a project linked to the family of U.S. President Donald Trump. The protests are aimed at opposing the project’s impact on nature reserves as well as accusations of government corruption.

The cause of the protests is a multi-billion dollar construction project at the Narta Lagoon, an ecologically sensitive area southwest of the capital Tirana. The project is promoted by a company connected to Jared Kushner, Donald Trump’s son-in-law. Critics fear that building the luxury resort in this area could destroy the environment and affect the habitat of protected bird species.

The Albanian government under Prime Minister Edi Rama defends the project and emphasizes its potential economic benefits. Mr. Rama argues that tourism is an important source of revenue for the country and that the resort will help create jobs and promote economic growth.

Despite these arguments, the protests in Albania have become increasingly intense. Protesters accuse the government of corruption and demand Prime Minister Rama’s resignation. The opposition criticizes the government’s handling of the protests and claims that the government is not addressing the country’s political and economic problems.

In response to the ongoing protests, the European Parliament has called on Albanian authorities to issue a suspension order on permits and new construction in the protected areas. Members of Parliament expressed deep concern about the recent developments at the Narta Lagoon and demanded the cancellation of legal amendments allowing large-scale tourism infrastructure development in these areas.

Prime Minister Rama described the protests as part of a “hybrid war” and asserted that public outrage is fueled by misinformation and external influences. He emphasized that the government will continue to commit to the project and has no plans to withdraw.

The situation in Albania remains tense as protests continue and both the government and protesters stand firm on their positions. The international community is closely monitoring the developments, especially regarding environmental impacts and domestic political tensions.

The prolonged protests in Albania raise questions about the balance between economic development and environmental protection. The debate about the planned luxury resort at the Narta Lagoon reflects the challenges many countries face in balancing economic interests with the conservation of natural resources.