For over three weeks, thousands of Albanians have taken to the streets in the capital Tirana and along the southern coast, protesting a massive luxury resort project linked to Jared Kushner, son-in-law of U.S. President Donald Trump, and his wife Ivanka Trump.
The development, estimated at $1.6–4 billion and backed by Kushner’s Affinity Partners along with Gulf investors, envisions hotels, villas, apartments, and a marina across protected coastal areas including the Vjosa-Narta nature reserve and Sazan Island. Critics warn it threatens fragile ecosystems home to flamingos, sea turtles, seals, and wetlands.
Protesters have adopted pink flamingo symbols, carrying cutouts and inflatables while chanting “Albania is not for sale.” What began as environmental opposition has expanded into broader demands for the resignation of Prime Minister Edi Rama, citing corruption, land disputes, and perceived favoritism toward foreign investors.
Incidents involving private security guards dragging activists at the site have further fueled public anger. Albania’s anti-corruption authorities have opened investigations, including freezing assets tied to landholding companies.
Prime Minister Rama has defended the project as a major tourism boost that will create jobs and modernize the country, vowing to proceed while pledging environmental safeguards. Ivanka Trump has described the site as an “incredible” discovery, highlighting its potential as a high-end destination.
The protests represent some of the largest in Albania since the fall of communism, drawing EU attention over compliance with environmental regulations. Demonstrations continue daily outside government offices, blending local grievances with international scrutiny of the Trump family’s business dealings.
As the “Flamingo Revolution” gains momentum, the government faces mounting pressure to balance economic ambitions with public demands to protect Albania’s natural heritage.
