Investigation Launched into Albanian Resort Project Linked to Jared Kushner
Albanian anti-corruption prosecutors have initiated an investigation into a luxury resort project associated with Jared Kushner, which has sparked significant public opposition due to environmental concerns.
Albanian authorities are investigating a luxury resort project linked to Jared Kushner's private equity firm, Affinity Partners, amid ongoing protests from citizens and environmental organizations. The development proposal includes the uninhabited Adriatic island of Sazan and a vast area of the Vjosa-Narta protected landscape, which hosts diverse wildlife including flamingos, seals, and sea turtles.
The Special Prosecution Against Corruption and Organized Crime (SPAK) confirmed the investigation into alterations made in 2024 that adjusted the region's protected status and land ownership, facilitating tourism activities. The prosecutor's office has not provided further comments since the investigation's announcement.
Kushner's firm revealed plans to develop the site into a luxury resort featuring 10,000 hotel rooms. Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama acknowledged ongoing discussions with Kushner when asked about the project. He asserted that the current proposal does not encroach on protected wildlife areas, emphasizing that the final proposal and full environmental assessments remain incomplete.
Protests have escalated since late May, particularly after developers erected barbed-wire fences at the site, restricting access for locals and tourists. Demonstrators have called for an end to the project and increased protection for the region. Amid rising tensions, local police have faced scrutiny, resulting in the revocation of licenses for two private security firms involved in violent confrontations during protests.
Rama expressed his ambition to enhance Albania's standing as a regional destination, integrating this project into broader national development goals. Meanwhile, Albania is actively pursuing EU membership and has opened various negotiations related to the accession process.
