Protests have erupted in the Albanian coastal town of Vlorë over a luxury resort project backed by Jared Kushner, the son-in-law of former US President Donald Trump. Local residents, environmental activists and opposition politicians have taken to the streets, arguing that the development will destroy pristine beaches, displace communities and benefit only a wealthy elite. The project, which includes a hotel, villas and a marina, is part of a wave of foreign investment in Albania's tourism sector that critics say lacks transparency and accountability.
The unrest has prompted calls from Labour MPs and civil society groups for the British government to step in. They demand that any foreign deal involving British companies or citizens be subject to rigorous oversight, including environmental impact assessments and public consultation. The resort is being developed by Kushner's firm Affinity Partners, which has received funding from the Saudi sovereign wealth fund. The British government has so far remained silent, but the Foreign Office is said to be monitoring the situation.
For the people of Vlorë, the protest is about more than just a resort. Albania, one of the poorest countries in Europe, has seen a surge in luxury developments along its coastline, often backed by foreign capital. Locals complain that these projects drive up property prices, exploit cheap labour and ignore planning laws. 'We are not against tourism,' said Mimoza Shkurti, a teacher and protester. 'But this is not for us. It is for the rich foreigners who will fly in and fly out, leaving us with nothing.'
The row has also exposed the growing influence of foreign money in Balkan politics. Kushner's involvement has raised eyebrows given his family's close ties to the Trump administration and his links to the Saudi crown prince. Critics argue that such deals bypass democratic scrutiny. 'If a British company was involved in this, there would be parliamentary questions,' said Jonathan Smith, a trade union researcher. 'We need to ensure that British investment abroad does not come at the expense of local communities.'
The Labour Party has seized on the issue, calling for a new code of conduct for British businesses operating overseas, including mandatory human rights due diligence. The shadow foreign secretary said: 'The government cannot turn a blind eye. We need to insist on transparency, fair wages and respect for the environment in any project that involves British money.'
Meanwhile, the Albanian government has defended the project, pointing to the jobs it will create and the boost to the economy. Prime Minister Edi Rama has welcomed foreign investment as key to modernising the country. But for many Albanians, the benefits remain elusive. With average wages around £350 a month, the promise of high-end tourism feels like a distant dream. 'I work two jobs and still cannot afford to rent a flat in the city,' said protester Arjan Duro. 'This resort will not change that.'
The standoff in Vlorë reflects a broader tension in the global economy: the conflict between the demand for luxury development and the needs of ordinary people. As the protests continue, the question is whether the British government will listen to the calls for oversight or allow the market to dictate the terms.
