A multibillion-euro luxury tourism development linked to Jared Kushner and Ivanka Trump is sparking intense local resistance in Albania. The project, which targets the Narta Lagoon and the uninhabited island of Sazan, faces mounting scrutiny from environmental activists and local protest groups concerned about the preservation of biodiversity in a region formerly isolated during the communist era.
Why are protesters targeting the Albania development?
Local opposition centers on the project’s location within the Narta Lagoon, a critical nature reserve and a major stopover for migratory birds. According to reports from the Associated Press, activists have used cut-outs of pink flamingos to highlight the threat to protected species. Since late May, the arrival of heavy machinery—including excavators—has intensified tensions. Environmental groups state that these activities are causing irreversible damage to long-protected habitats, leading to clashes between protesters and private security guards at the site.
The site was discovered by Ivanka Trump and Jared Kushner while they were on a boat trip. Ivanka Trump, in an interview with podcaster David Senra, described hiking barefoot to the top of the island after deciding to stop for a swim.
How does the government justify the investment?
Prime Minister Edi Rama frames the 4 billion euro ($4.6 billion) project as a vital step toward modernizing Albania’s economy and securing its status as a global tourism destination. Rama has publicly committed to the venture, stating, “There is no chance for this investment to stop as long as I am here.” The government maintains that the land designated for development is privately owned, though this claim has been challenged by competing property disputes.
What can be learned from the failed Serbia project?
The Albanian development is being viewed through the lens of a similar, abandoned project in Serbia. According to Reuters, a luxury complex in Belgrade once linked to Kushner’s investment firm faced significant legal hurdles. Following a special law passed by the Serbian Parliament to facilitate the build, the country’s prosecutor for organized crime eventually charged four people—including a government official—with abuse of office and document falsification. Kushner later withdrew from that project, which had been slated for a former military site.
What is the current status of the legal investigations?
Albania’s state anti-corruption agency has confirmed it has opened an investigation into the project. While the agency has not released specific details, the move reflects growing public and political pressure regarding the privatization of coastal land. The situation remains volatile, marked by recent demonstrations in Tirana and the protest swim conducted by Albanian Australian swimmer Eva Buzo, who circled the disputed island to signal her opposition.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Who is behind the Albania coastal project? The project is linked to an investment firm associated with Jared Kushner and Ivanka Trump.
- What is being built? The plans include a series of hotels, apartments, villas, and a marina across the Narta Lagoon and Sazan island.
- Why is the location controversial? The area is a protected nature reserve and a critical habitat for migratory birds, leading to concerns over environmental destruction.
- Has the project been halted? No. While there is an ongoing investigation by the state anti-corruption agency, Prime Minister Edi Rama has stated the government remains committed to the development.
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