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PoliticsAlbanian protesters rally for 22nd day against Kushner-linked luxury tourism project
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Thousands of protesters gathered in Albania's capital Tirana and the city of Vlora over the weekend in one of the largest rallies yet against a proposed multi-billion-euro luxury tourism project on the Adriatic coast, linked to U.S. President Donald Trump's son-in-law Jared Kushner and his firm Affinity Partners. The demonstrations, now in their 22nd consecutive day, have been dubbed the 'flamingo revolution' due to environmental concerns over threats to wildlife and ecosystems, including flamingo habitats. Protesters carried banners reading 'Albania is not for sale' and called for Prime Minister Edi Rama's resignation, accusing his government of opaque real estate deals and corruption. Rama has defended the project and rejected calls to resign, suggesting the protests are fueled by Kushner's involvement rather than environmental issues. The unrest has fused with broader public anger over alleged government corruption.
Source report
Thousands of demonstrators gathered in Albania's capital over the weekend in one of the largest protests yet against a proposed luxury development project connected to U.S. President Donald Trump's son-in-law, Jared Kushner.
Protests Sweep the Country
On Saturday, protesters in Tirana carried Albanian flags and banners reading "Albania is not for sale" as they marched toward the office of Prime Minister Edi Rama. Demonstrators called for his resignation and chanted against the Socialist Party government, according to reports.
Further protests took place in the western city of Vlora on Sunday, as demonstrations entered their 22nd consecutive day.
Focus of the Demonstrations
The primary target of the protests is a proposed multi-billion-euro tourism project on Albania's Adriatic coast, a development backed by Kushner's Affinity Partners.
The unrest has since merged with broader public anger over opaque real estate deals and alleged government corruption.
The 'Flamingo Revolution'
The protests have become known as the "flamingo revolution," named after the purported threat to wildlife and delicate ecosystems — including flocks of flamingos — posed by development projects on Albania's southern coast.
Government Response
Prime Minister Edi Rama, who has defended the Kushner-linked development, has rejected calls to resign. According to reports, Rama has suggested that Kushner's involvement — rather than environmental concerns about the project itself — appeared to be fueling the protests.
Additional Context
- Protesters gathered in front of Albania's Prime Minister's Office in Tirana on June 20, 2026, demonstrating against a luxury resort development near a protected natural area.
- CNBC has contacted Affinity Partners and a spokesperson for Albania's government for comment.
Source
US Top News and AnalysisWestern
Part of this Story
Albanian protests and probe over Kushner-linked luxury resort project