A massive luxury resort project on Albania's protected Narta Lagoon coast, linked to Jared Kushner, son-in-law of US President Donald Trump, has ignited protests and environmental concerns as the country advances toward EU membership. The project, which could exceed €4 billion, is touted by Prime Minister Edi Rama as a strategic investment to boost global tourism.

On May 30, activists attempting to reach the construction site were met by bulldozers, barbed-wire fences, and private security guards. Videos of protesters being forcibly removed sparked public outrage, leading to thousands joining solidarity demonstrations in Tirana under the slogan "Albania is not for sale."

Environmentalists warn that the development threatens the Pishe Poro-Narta protected area, a vital habitat for hundreds of species, including migratory birds and pink flamingos. The area has been proposed for the Emerald Network and is expected to become part of the Natura 2000 network upon EU accession.

The European Commission stated it is "closely following the developments" and expressed concerns about the repeated extension of Albania's strategic investments law, which may bypass environmental safeguards. The Commission stressed that EU standards must be fully applied to the project.

Conservationist Besjana Shehu called the situation a turning point, saying, "What is at stake is the ecological integrity of more than 18,000 hectares of one of Albania's most important natural corridors." The debate raises broader questions about development versus conservation in the Mediterranean.

Source: www.dw.com