Albanian PM Edi Rama faces 45‑day nationwide protests over Zvërnec project

Protests against Prime Minister Edi Rama entered their 45th consecutive day in Tirana, with thousands gathering at Skanderbeg Square and marching toward the Prime Minister’s Office. Demonstrators demand Rama’s resignation, the formation of a non‑partisan transitional government and a series of constitutional and legislative reforms. The movement began as a response to the planned coastal development at Zvërnec, which activists say threatens protected wetlands and flamingo habitats.

Rama has repeatedly addressed the controversy from Brussels, saying the Zvërnec project is not yet finalized, that all steps follow EU rules, and that the final decision will be based on European standards. He dismissed environmental concerns as still under assessment and presented the project as a future source of pride for Albania and the EU.

The protests have attracted international attention: German media reported pop star Dua Lipa’s public support, while delegations in Brussels and other EU capitals have voiced solidarity with the demonstrators. Protesters have pledged to continue daily actions through September, asserting that the demonstrations reflect a broader rise in civic expectations rather than a single issue.