Jared Kushner-backed luxury resort stokes days of protests in Albania

Jared Kushner-backed luxury resort stokes days of protests in Albania

Jared Kushner backed luxury resort stokes - TIRANA, Albania — A new wave of demonstrations erupted in the country’s capital as residents protested a multi-million-dollar resort project tied to Jared Kushner and Ivanka Trump. The protest, now in its seventh day, has drawn widespread attention, with activists labeling the movement the "Flamingo Revolution." The pink flamingo, a native species, has become a powerful emblem for environmentalists opposing the development, which threatens the island’s natural ecosystems.

Sazan Island’s Transformation

Once a hidden military outpost during the communist era, Sazan Island now lies at the center of controversy. The island, situated along Albania’s Adriatic coastline, is set to be redeveloped into a high-end tourist destination by a consortium of investors, including President Trump’s son-in-law. Plans also extend to nearby regions within the Vjosa-Narta protected zone, an area known for its biodiversity and critical habitats for wildlife.

Ivanka Trump, who has been vocal about the project, highlighted its potential during a recent interview with the "Founders" podcast. "We found a remarkable site while sailing with friends," she shared, emphasizing the couple’s vision for a "world-class destination" in the Mediterranean. The project, she said, represents a significant private investment in the region’s history.

Escalating Tensions

Public frustration intensified last month when construction equipment appeared on the island without prior notice. Footage of an activist being forcibly removed from the site quickly spread online, fueling anger and drawing international scrutiny. Since then, thousands have gathered nightly in Tirana, demanding transparency and accountability from the Albanian government.

Aleksandr Trajce, head of the Protection and Preservation of the Natural Environment in Albania, criticized the lack of public input. "There was no consultation, no information," he told CBS News. "We saw bulldozers arriving suddenly, clearing roads, cutting trees, and destroying dunes. The public was left in the dark until it was too late."

Government and Corruption Scandal

Edi Rama’s socialist government, which has ruled Albania since 2013, faces mounting pressure from the protests. The administration has been linked to a corruption investigation involving Deputy Prime Minister Belinda Balluku, a key ally of Rama. Despite parliamentary support for Balluku, the government has proceeded with the project, framing it as an economic opportunity for a nation with one of Europe’s lowest GDP per capita rates.

Rama defended the development, stating, "We must remain welcoming to investors and avoid the stigma of being a country where progress is blocked." He added, "The investment will not stop as long as I am in office," underscoring his commitment to the project despite public backlash.

Environmental Concerns

CBS News joined protesters in the Zvërnec area on the southern coast, where some construction activity had paused. While bulldozers and machinery were absent, environmentalists noted visible signs of damage, such as disturbed sea turtle nests. A local representative from the Protection and Preservation of the Natural Environment in Albania confirmed the destruction, citing the early stages of the project as a cause for concern.

Asher Abehsera, CEO of Sazan Real Estate Development LLC, assured CBS News that the company prioritizes sustainable practices. "Our focus is on environmental enhancement, job creation, and delivering long-term value to local communities," he said, adding that the firm is prepared to support the project’s progression through formal processes.