Thousands of Albanians took to the streets in the capital, Tirana, to protest a planned luxury coastal tourism complex linked to Jared Kushner, son-in-law of former U.S. President Donald Trump. The demonstration on Wednesday, June 4, 2026, was fueled by concerns over environmental damage, corruption, and the alienation of protected natural areas.

The project, which involves the construction of hotels on the island of Sazan and within the protected Vjosa-Narta wetland, has drawn significant opposition from environmental groups and the public. Sazan Island was a former secret military base, while Vjosa-Narta is a vital habitat for flamingos, seals, and sea turtles.

Protesters chanted "cancel the project" and carried banners with slogans such as "Albania is not for sale." Their demands include the immediate halt of all construction and the removal of heavy machinery from the protected zone. Environmental organizations have voiced strong objections, highlighting the potential threats to the region's rich biodiversity. The scale of the opposition underscores a deep-seated concern about the impact of large-scale foreign investment on Albania's natural heritage.

Adding to the controversy, Albania's special prosecutor's office to combat corruption and organised crime (SPAK) announced on Tuesday that it had launched an investigation into the funds used for acquiring land titles and their subsequent sale to investors. This investigation has intensified scrutiny on the resort project and its financial dealings.

The protests follow an earlier demonstration on Saturday in Zvernec, near the Vjosa-Narta wetland. During that gathering, dozens of environmental activists protested the erection of barbed wire that blocked public access to the beach. Reports indicate that private security guards allegedly attacked and injured several protesters, leading authorities to suspend police officers and revoke the licenses of two private security firms.

While it has not been officially confirmed that the land fenced with barbed wire has been acquired by Kushner's investment firm, Affinity Partners, the company's involvement in Albanian development plans has been known for some time. Kushner presented his vision for development projects in Albania approximately two years ago, envisioning the transformation of Sazan into a high-end tourist destination with an estimated value of 1.4 billion euros ($1.2 billion), alongside plans for luxury hotels in Zvernec.

In January, a coalition of around 40 environmental organizations formally called for the suspension of the resort plans, citing the irreversible damage that could be inflicted upon the local ecosystem and its unique biodiversity. The group emphasized the ecological significance of the Vjosa-Narta wetland, particularly its role as a sanctuary for endangered species.

Protesters also gathered outside the office of Albania's Prime Minister Edi Rama on Tuesday evening, using inflatable flamingos and signs that read "nation is not for sale" and "I don’t want Albania like Dubai" to express their discontent. Prime Minister Rama has, however, defended the project, indicating his government's support for the development, which he views as beneficial for Albania's economy.