site.btaProtests against Albanian Coastal Development Project Enter 30th Day

Protests in Tirana against a planned luxury development on Albania's southern coast entered their 30th consecutive day on Monday, Albanian media reported.

Demonstrators marched from Skanderbeg Square along Deshmoret e Kombit Boulevard to the office of Prime Minister Edi Rama, where they renewed calls for the cancellation of the Zvernec development project, the government's resignation and broader political reforms.

The protests have been held every evening since May 31, mainly in Tirana but also in other Albanian cities. They oppose plans for a luxury resort near Zvernec in Vlore County, a project reportedly led by Affinity Partners, the investment firm founded by Jared Kushner, son-in-law of US President Donald Trump.

Zvernec lies near the Narta Lagoon, part of the protected Vjosa-Narta area, which is home to flamingos, seals and sea turtles. The flamingo has become the symbol of the demonstrations, which Albanian and international media have dubbed the "Flamingo Revolution." Kushner also plans to develop nearby Sazan Island. Albania's Special Anti-Corruption Structure (SPAK) is investigating land sale contracts related to the project.

The protests have also drawn support abroad, with demonstrators gathering outside the Albanian Embassy in Sofia on June 8 in solidarity with the movement. 

Protesters are demanding that the Zvernec project be scrapped, Rama's government resign, a 12-month caretaker government be formed and constitutional reforms be implemented, including a two-term limit for future prime ministers.

Rama has repeatedly defended the project in interviews with international media, describing the protests as an attempt to wage "hybrid warfare" against Albania. In an interview with Politico, he alleged that Iran was behind a disinformation campaign targeting the investment.

According to Albanian media, Monday's protest was attended by several Green politicians from across Europe, including Members of the European Parliament and representatives of the European Green Party.

One of the protest organizers, Arben Kolja, said demonstrators are expected to gather on Tuesday in the northern coastal village of Rrjoll after a fence surrounding the construction site of another luxury resort, previously torn down by protesters, was rebuilt.

Albania's public broadcaster reported separate protests near the Polytechnic University of Tirana, where clashes broke out between demonstrators and private security guards after protesters attempted to hang a banner from the university's main building. No injuries were reported.

Following Monday's demonstrations, Albanian police said they are investigating 31 people on suspicion of organizing and participating in unlawful gatherings, disturbing public order and obstructing traffic.