The Albanian government approved a luxury coastal resort development linked to Jared Kushner, the son-in-law of former U.S. President Donald Trump.
The project has sparked significant opposition from environmental activists and local residents who argue the development threatens a fragile ecosystem. Critics said the project prioritizes foreign investment over the preservation of critical wildlife habitats.
The development is planned for the southern coast of Albania within the Vjosa-Narta Protected Landscape [3]. This area, located near a lagoon on the Adriatic Sea, is recognized for its biodiversity and is home to hundreds of bird species [3].
Environmentalists warn that the construction of the resort will damage protected habitats and endanger specific bird and turtle species [1, 4]. The site is a critical stop for migratory birds and a nesting ground for various species. Xhemal Xherri said to the local wildlife during a report for CBC, "You see those white pinkish dots in front of us?" He identified them as "Dalmatian pelicans" [5].
Beyond environmental concerns, the project is facing scrutiny over legal issues. Activists and critics have raised questions regarding disputed land ownership and the transparency of the approval process [2, 4]. Protesters said the government's decision to greenlight the project ignores the legal protections afforded to the landscape.
Local activists continue to organize against the development, citing the risk of permanent ecological loss. They said the Vjosa-Narta region is too ecologically sensitive for a high-end resort, a move they say sets a dangerous precedent for land use in protected areas [1, 5].
“The Vjosa-Narta Protected Landscape is home to hundreds of bird species.”
The controversy highlights a tension between Albania's desire for high-profile foreign investment and its commitment to environmental conservation. By approving a project linked to a prominent U.S. political figure in a protected zone, the government risks legal challenges and international criticism regarding its adherence to ecological standards and land-use laws.
