Thousands of people protested outside the prime minister's office in Tirana on Saturday, part of a wave of dissent against plans to build a mega-resort on the island of Sazan, backed by Ivanka Trump and her husband Jared Kushner. The protests have evolved into a broader revolt against Albania's political establishment, accused of corruption and serving oligarch interests.
Background of the protests
For Ina Shkurti, a cartographer, Sazan island holds deep personal significance. She recalls bathing in its "always calm and emerald green" waters as a child. The plan to develop the island into a luxury resort, denying public access, has sparked outrage. "Sazan is our only island. It's a small paradise that holds a special place in the hearts and minds of Albanians," she said. "Having some rich couple come in, develop it, and then deny us access, would be a crime."
The protests, known as the "flamingo revolution" due to threats to wildlife, have drawn tens of thousands, including diaspora Albanians flying in from the US and Europe. The movement is leaderless and non-partisan, catching officials and the EU off guard.
Government response and investment details
Prime Minister Edi Rama has refused to back down, describing the €1.4bn investment as vital for Albania to become the Mediterranean's "most attractive high-end tourist destination." He has called the project a "blessing" that will create jobs and increase green space by 25%. Critics, however, condemn the lack of transparency, noting investors are hidden behind a shell company in the Netherlands.
The development site includes the Pishë Poro-Narta reserve, home to rare birds and endangered species. Bulldozers began clearing protected zones, leading to confrontations with private security. In one incident, a local landowner was dragged by guards while police did not intervene.
Wider implications and EU involvement
The protests have tapped into deep anger over inequality and corruption. Justina Prenga, a 24-year-old protester, said, "We're gen Z and we're saying 'enough is enough', our country isn't for sale." The European Parliament backed protesters, urging a halt to construction in protected zones. EU officials say accession negotiations cannot conclude without alignment on environmental laws.
Despite opposition, some locals support the development. Albert Pushka named his fish restaurant Ivanka after Trump. Elpiniqi Merkuri, head of Vlore municipal council, believes the resort will boost confidence. However, ornithologist Ledi Selgjekaj warns it will be "the kiss of death" for local ecosystems, citing disruption from a new airport already harming flamingos and other wildlife.
