Thousands Protest Kushner-Backed Resort in Albania Over Threats to Sazan and Wetlands
Thousands protest a Kushner-backed resort in Albania, citing risks to Sazan island, coastal wetlands and endangered species; government defends the $1.6B project.
The planned Kushner-backed resort in Albania has sparked mass demonstrations in Tirana and threatened to widen into the country’s south after activists said preparatory works began on ecologically sensitive land. Protesters say the $1.6 billion development jeopardises Sazan island, nearby wetlands and habitats for endangered species, and they have rejected government offers to enter negotiations until heavy machinery and fencing are removed. Local leaders, environmental groups and hundreds who travelled to the capital demanded an immediate halt to work while legal and environmental questions are resolved.
Mass demonstrations in Tirana continue for a third day
Thousands of people returned to Tirana’s streets in sustained protest over the weekend, expressing deep concern about the resort project and perceived failures of transparency. Demonstrators called for an immediate stop to construction and for full public disclosure of permits and environmental assessments. The demonstrations reflect growing public anger that has persisted despite offers from the prime minister to meet representatives of the movement.
Environmental groups warn of irreversible damage to Sazan and wetlands
Conservation organisations say the coastal complex will encroach on Sazan island, protected wetlands and marine habitats that support rare wildlife. The area is a last refuge for the Mediterranean monk seal and houses more than 200 bird species, including flamingos and Dalmatian pelicans, according to conservation assessments cited by local NGOs. Activists argue that development of dunes, pine forests and tidal areas could cause permanent habitat loss and degrade biodiversity in a region scientists describe as among the Mediterranean’s most sensitive.
Local communities report land access restrictions and aggressive site preparation
Residents in the Zvernik area say fences, concrete barriers and private security have blocked traditional access to family land and livelihoods, raising tensions with construction crews. Witnesses reported heavy equipment removing sand dunes and clearing pine groves, actions locals say were taken without consultation or visible public permits. Environmental leaders say the move from preparatory work to physical barriers transformed concern into widespread public outrage because it signalled irreversible ground disturbance.
Prime minister defends the investment and offers dialogue
Prime Minister Edi Rama has positioned the project as a milestone for turning Albania into a higher-end tourist destination and has repeatedly defended the investment. He proposed direct talks with protesters in an attempt to break the impasse, but activists held firm, insisting that nothing short of a suspension of works would allow meaningful negotiation. The prime minister also vowed that, while he remains in office, the investment would continue — a stance that has sharpened political divisions around environmental governance and development policy.
Developer pledges responsible management and local benefits
The development company associated with the project issued a statement saying it would proceed responsibly and focus on environmental improvements, job creation and long-term value for local communities. Asher Abisera, head of the developer overseeing planning, said the firm respects institutional procedures and will prioritise management measures and community engagement as work continues. Nevertheless, environmentalists say those assurances are insufficient without transparent, independent environmental impact assessments and public access to licensing documents.
Legal scrutiny and anti-corruption inquiry add pressure on project backers
Albania’s Special Anti-Corruption Prosecutor has opened an inquiry into 2024 legislative changes affecting protected areas, raising the prospect of legal challenges to the project’s authorization pathway. The investigation could focus on whether the amendments and subsequent permits complied with national law and international conservation obligations. Legal experts say any findings of procedural irregularity would complicate project timelines and could force a formal reassessment of approvals and land-use decisions.
Local anger over restricted access and environmental harm has broadened the movement beyond conservation groups to include landowners and workers who feel directly affected by the site closures. Organisers in the south announced planned demonstrations near the development after preparatory works there began, signalling the dispute is likely to remain a national political flashpoint.
The coming days are expected to test whether government officials, developers and civic groups can find a path that balances investment and conservation, or whether legal action and sustained street protests will force a pause in work at the contested site.
