For the first time in nearly 13 years as prime minister, Edi Rama faces serious pressure as thousands of Albanians have taken to the streets daily for over a month, demanding his resignation. Protesters accuse the government of cronyism and corruption, claiming decisions are made to stay in power rather than serve citizens.

The protests were sparked by plans to build luxury resorts in the Vjose-Narta area, a protected stretch of the Adriatic coast home to flamingos, Mediterranean monk seals, and migratory birds. The project, expected to attract over €4 billion in investment, involves US President Donald Trump's son-in-law Jared Kushner and his firm Affinity Partners.

Rama dismissed the protests as a "beautiful example of democracy" and defended foreign investment, insisting there is "no privatization of public space." However, critics point to a February 2024 amendment to the law on protected areas that allows strategic investments and luxury hotels inside nature reserves, effectively overriding conservation rules.

The European Commission warned that the amendment has led to deterioration of nature conservation in Albania. Rama countered that the law is not in breach of European standards and will be reassessed during EU accession talks.

Rama suggested that international criticism is partly driven by anti-Trump sentiment, as the US president's son-in-law is involved. Nonetheless, he acknowledged the importance of listening to protesters, whom he described as "people from all walks of life."

Source: www.dw.com