Albania protests luxury resort plans in protected areas

Massive protests have erupted in Albania over proposed luxury development projects in protected natural areas. For over two months, demonstrators have marched under the slogan ‘Albania is not for sale’ to oppose multi-billion euro construction plans.

The projects involve a 1.4 billion euro luxury eco-resort on Sazan Island and a 4.7 billion euro development in the Vjosa-Narta Protected Area, which would include hotels, apartments, and luxury villas. These developments follow a 2024 legislative change that permits the construction of five-star accommodations and agrotourism facilities within protected zones.

Prime Minister Edi Rama has defended the plans. The scale of the investment is significant relative to the national economy, as Albania’s gross domestic product is approximately 27 billion euros.