On Thursday, Albanian police clashed with protesters during the ongoing "Flamingo Revolution" rally in Tirana, opposing a controversial resort linked to US President Donald Trump's family. The protests intensified as police used tear gas and water cannons to disperse crowds, resulting in at least 18 arrests and injuries to 12 officers.
Background of the Flamingo Revolution
The "Flamingo Revolution" began as a grassroots environmental movement against the development of the Sazan Island Resort, locally referred to as "Kushner Island." This project, backed by Trump's son-in-law, Jared Kushner, threatens the flamingo habitat in Zvernec, a protected ecological area on Albania's southern coast. The protests were initially sparked by the appearance of barbed-wire fencing and construction equipment on the beach.
Since early 2024, demonstrators have taken to the streets nearly every day, voicing concerns about potential environmental damage and expressing frustration with the government. Protesters claim their voices are being ignored, as highlighted by Agustela Thoma, who stated, "The protesters want their voice to be heard inside [the parliament], as the prime minister for so many days has not heard them and has ignored them."
Government Response and Public Sentiment
Albanian authorities, led by Socialist Prime Minister Edi Rama, have defended the resort, arguing it will benefit the luxury tourism sector. However, the government's dismissal of protesters' concerns has further fueled public outrage. Rama condemned the protests, stating, "The beautiful protest of citizenship, patriotism, and unity has now given way to the old film of conflict, strife, and violence." The prime minister also mentioned that while changes to the law have been made, they do not breach European standards.
