Thousands of Albanians have taken to the streets in Tirana over recent weeks to protest a disputed coastal development project tied to Jared Kushner, son-in-law of former U.S. President Donald Trump. The demonstrations, known colloquially as the “Flamingo Revolution,” have been marked by the use of flamingo cut-outs symbolizing opposition to the planned construction in the ecologically sensitive Narta Lagoon area and on the nearby uninhabited island of Sazan.
The proposed development includes a luxury resort intended for the island of Sazan and a coastal complex near Narta Lagoon, a recognized wildlife reserve and habitat for various wetland species, including flamingos. Environmentalists and local activists have raised alarms about the potential irreversible damage the project could inflict on the area’s pristine natural environment.
The protests have attracted a broad base of participants, from artists to retirees. Among them is Fatma Paja, a 28-year-old artist from Tirana who, along with her sisters, has created the prominent flamingo cut-outs distributed and displayed during the nightly rallies. Paja said she uses art to highlight social and environmental injustices in Albania. The protest movement has intentionally avoided affiliation with political parties, fostering a sense of unity and public trust, with many demonstrators calling for the resignation of Prime Minister Edi Rama.
One of the early participants and organizers, tour guide Arben Kola, has expressed frustration with what he describes as longstanding corruption and privatization efforts that undermine Albania’s natural heritage. Kola noted government approval of land giveaways involving Albania’s beaches, valleys, and rivers, and accused authorities of allowing construction activities to proceed despite the absence of a final plan or completed environmental impact assessments.
Prime Minister Rama has defended the project, asserting it will attract substantial foreign investment and transform Albania’s economy. Though acknowledging Kushner’s involvement, the government maintains the land is privately owned and says an environmental impact assessment has not been conducted because plans are still in development, with input from international architects and specialists. Nevertheless, critics like Kola contend that construction machinery is already clearing portions of the protected area.
The protests have drawn a diverse cross-section of Albanian society. Among the notable figures is Bujare Ishmi, a 70-year-old former engineer and longtime critic of Albania’s political establishment. Ishmi attends the rallies regularly and has voiced support for responsible foreign investment that respects environmental standards and transparent processes, highlighting a widespread demand for accountability.
Albania’s anti-corruption agency has launched an investigation into the project’s legitimacy amid conflicting claims about land ownership and proper procedure. As the demonstrations grow nightly, organizers emphasize that the movement’s future depends on continued public engagement and vigilance over the management of the country’s natural resources.