Albania: Land, money and the sea

Ivanka Trump and Jared Kushner’s proposed luxury resort development in Albania has ignited intense debate over land rights, environmental preservation, and government corruption. The project, situated on the ecologically sensitive Nata Lagoon and the former military base of Sazan Island, threatens habitats for endangered species like monk seals and migratory birds. While the Albanian government views the investment as a catalyst for tourism, local villagers remain embroiled in long-standing land disputes, a legacy of the country's complex transition from a communist state. Critics argue that the lack of transparency surrounding the development reflects broader issues of systemic corruption and the tendency for powerful interests to bypass legal protections. As construction on a nearby airport continues despite flooding and environmental concerns, the tension between economic development and the preservation of Albania’s natural and cultural heritage remains a defining challenge for the region.