Albanian protests intensify over Trump‑linked coastal hotel project

Thousands of demonstrators gathered in Tirana on 20 June, marking one of the largest rallies since the anti‑tourism development protests began three weeks ago. The crowd, many carrying pink flamingo banners, opposes a €1.5 million luxury hotel slated for a protected coastal area and associated with Ivanka Trump and Jared Kushner. Protesters argue the project threatens flamingo breeding grounds and accuse the government of corruption and lack of transparency.

The demonstrations have escalated, with participants demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Edi Rama, who insists the hotel will proceed despite concerns raised by the European Commission about environmental impact. Police have detained dozens of activists for alleged violations of public order during nightly protests. organisers say they will remain on the streets until Rama steps down, while environmental groups cite a recent European Parliament moratorium on construction in protected zones as a partial victory.