Albania protests over Zvernec hotel project turn violent, police arrest demonstrators
On 30 June 2026, dozens of protesters gathered outside the Albanian parliament in Tirana and hurled eggs – and in some cases flour – at the cars of MPs and government ministers. The demonstrators demanded the repeal of a law that permits the construction of luxury hotels in the protected Zvernec area near Avlona, a project linked to Jared Kushner, son‑in‑law of U.S. President Donald Trump.
Police responded with tear‑gas and force, forcibly handcuffing protesters and making a series of violent arrests. Six demonstrators were initially detained, with two later released; four people were reported injured, three of whom were police officers. The Albanian Ombudsman, Enti Sambani, announced an investigation into police conduct, stating that “the right to protest is a constitutional right and the police acted disproportionally.”
The protests, now in their 31st day, also call for the resignation of Prime Minister Edi Rama’s government and have attracted daily participation since 30 May.