Albania’s EU accession at risk over Kushner-backed resort plan, warns MEP

By the Editorial Team · Thursday, July 2, 2026

European Parliament members warned Albania that its EU accession hopes could be threatened if the government proceeds with a €1.4 billion luxury resort project backed by Jared Kushner, citing environmental damage and governance concerns. The ongoing public protests and EU criticism highlight broader demands for transparency and rule of law, putting Albania’s ambitious EU membership timeline at risk.

Members of the European Parliament (MEPs) have cautioned Albania that its prospects for European Union accession could be jeopardized if the government does not reconsider plans for a luxury resort backed by Jared Kushner, son-in-law of former U.S. President Donald Trump. The comments were made by Dutch MEP Tineke Strik, who led a recent European Parliament fact-finding delegation to Albania.

Strik urged Prime Minister Edi Rama’s administration to prioritize EU integration over the proposed €1.4 billion real estate development, expressing concerns about significant environmental damage to Albania’s unspoiled coastline. The development is planned for the Zvërnec peninsula and Sazan island in southern Albania, areas previously designated as protected environmental zones.

The project has ignited widespread opposition within Albania, culminating in ongoing demonstrations labeled the “flamingo revolution,” with protesters demanding Rama’s resignation. Opposition has centered on allegations of corruption linked to the issuance of construction permits and land sales, coupled with a perceived lack of transparency and public engagement regarding the venture.

Strik described Albanian citizens as actively defending European values and calling for government accountability, but criticized the official response by Albanian authorities. She specifically referenced Environment Minister Sojan Jaupaj’s suggestion that construction could continue until the government is obliged to comply with EU environmental standards, a position Strik characterized as reckless and unacceptable. She indicated that the European Commission would be urged to apply pressure on the Albanian government to halt potentially damaging activities immediately.

Despite these concerns, Albania’s EU candidacy has garnered substantial support from European lawmakers, with Strik expressing strong backing for Albania’s eventual membership. She emphasized that the ongoing protests go beyond environmental issues, reflecting a broader demand among Albanians for the rule of law and democratic governance.

Rama, who secured a historic fourth term last year, has committed to securing EU membership for Albania by 2030, with a self-imposed target to conclude accession talks by December 2027. This timeline, considered ambitious by EU officials, could be at risk if the government continues to pursue the Kushner-backed development amid environmental and governance concerns.

The European Parliament adopted a resolution last month endorsing the protesters, calling for an immediate halt to construction in protected zones, and demanding the repeal of legislation that permits “predatory capitalists” to gain investment rights in wildlife conservation areas.

The Kushner project aims to create a large-scale resort, which he has described as a luxury destination for family and friends, but its environmental impact and political ramifications have drawn strong criticism both domestically and among EU representatives. With public discontent mounting and EU accession talks imperiled, Albania faces increasing pressure to reevaluate its development priorities in line with its European aspirations.

This article was reported by synthesizing coverage from multiple independent news outlets to present a balanced, unbiased account. Read about our editorial standards. Spotted an error? Let us know.