SouthernWorldwide.com – Albanian anti-corruption prosecutors have initiated an investigation into the altered protected status of a coastal wetland. This area is slated for a luxury resort project linked to Jared Kushner, the son-in-law of former U.S. President Donald Trump. The project has ignited significant environmental opposition and widespread protests.
According to Politico, Albania’s special anti-corruption prosecution office, known as SPAK, has launched a probe. The investigation targets the changes made to the protected status of the Vjosa-Narta landscape in Zvërnec. This vital coastal wetland is a critical habitat for flamingos, Mediterranean monk seals, and nesting sites for sea turtles.
In 2024, Kushner publicly revealed his firm, Affinity Partners, had plans to develop high-end tourism projects in Albania. The Zvërnec area was specifically mentioned as a target location. Earlier this year, he visited the site along with his wife, Ivanka Trump.
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Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama recently confirmed to Politico that discussions were ongoing between the government and Kushner regarding the development deal. The proposed project is expected to feature approximately 10,000 hotel rooms and villas.
“I aspire to make Albania a country that is a destination to be envied in the region, and this project is an integral part of that endeavor,” Rama stated on Monday.
Citizen and nonprofit group protests in Albania commenced in May. This wave of demonstrations began after large fences topped with barbed wire were erected at the proposed resort site. These barriers effectively blocked local residents and tourists from accessing the beach.
On Sunday, protesters gathered outside government offices. Their demands included an immediate halt to the project and the resignation of Prime Minister Rama. The protests have highlighted deep divisions and concerns over the development.
Following Sunday’s demonstrations, disturbing footage surfaced. The video appeared to show private security guards assaulting and dragging a protester near a cliff. Other demonstrators who were attempting to dismantle the fences and impede construction also reported threats from some of the guards.
In response to the incident, the licenses of two private security companies involved have been revoked. Concurrently, around 15 protesters have been charged. The local police chief has also been suspended from his duties.
