Thousands Protest $4.6 Billion Albania Resort for 14th Day as Rama Refuses to Back Down
Updated
Updated · Euronews · Jun 14
Thousands Protest $4.6 Billion Albania Resort for 14th Day as Rama Refuses to Back Down
3 articles · Updated · Euronews · Jun 14
Summary
Thousands marched in Tirana for a 14th straight night on Saturday against a $4.6 billion luxury tourism project planned in a protected Adriatic coastal area.
The development, linked to a Jared Kushner investment vehicle, would build a hotel complex on an abandoned island and nearby shoreline near a lagoon used by migratory birds including flamingos.
Prime Minister Edi Rama has defended the project as a boost to tourism and Albania’s EU path, saying he will not “step back” and accusing overseas cyber activists of fueling the unrest.
The demonstrations have broadened from environmental objections to demands for Rama’s resignation and early elections, while Albanian communities abroad and members of the Greek minority have also raised land-ownership concerns.
After a project failed in Serbia, will a corruption probe stop Kushner’s $4.6B Albanian resort?
Could a luxury resort on a protected coast derail Albania's dream of joining the European Union?
A new law allows building in protected parks. Is Albania's natural heritage now officially for sale?
Flamingo Revolution: Albania’s Environmental Uprising, Corruption Allegations, and the Battle Over EU Membership
Overview
As of June 14, 2026, Albania is witnessing the 'Flamingo Revolution,' a wave of public protests sparked by deep environmental concerns. Demonstrations began with hundreds gathering in central Tirana and marching toward Prime Minister Edi Rama’s residence, growing in size and patriotic energy. The core issue driving these protests is Albania’s need to align with European Union environmental laws, a key requirement for EU accession by 2030. The government faces mounting pressure from both citizens and the EU, as protesters demand stronger environmental protection and challenge policies seen as threatening Albania’s natural heritage and future in Europe.