How a Jared Kushner-Backed Resort Is Putting Albania’s EU Bid at Risk
Summary
A luxury resort project backed by Jared Kushner is underway in a protected area of Albania, sparking protests and concern over environmental protection and government transparency. The European Parliament has urged Albania to stop construction and reverse legal changes that allow resorts in protected lands, as these issues threaten Albania’s bid to join the European Union.Key Facts
- Jared Kushner and Ivanka Trump imagined building a luxury resort in Albania’s protected Vjosa-Narta lagoon and Sazan Island area during a yacht trip.
- Albania protected these areas by law, forbidding large tourism construction until a 2024 amendment allowed five-star resorts in protected zones.
- The resort project, linked to Kushner’s firm Affinity Partners, was approved with $1.4 billion investment and “strategic investor” status.
- Protests called the “Flamingo Revolution” began in June 2024 to oppose changes favoring the resort and have spread nationally and internationally.
- Protesters are concerned about the environment, government transparency, and accountability in Albania.
- The European Parliament passed a resolution demanding Albania repeal the legal changes and stop construction inside protected areas.
- The resort project raises doubts about Albania meeting EU requirements on environmental protection and rule of law.
- Kushner’s firm manages over $6 billion from investors including Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund and Middle Eastern investors.
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