Jared Kushner, former senior advisor to President Donald Trump, has set his sights on developing luxury resorts in Albania, sparking a heated debate about environmental conservation and economic progress. The project, planned for the coastal area of Zvernec, has drawn criticism from environmental groups concerned about its potential impact on protected habitats.
Kushner's vision for the area includes curved resorts, villa complexes, and docks reaching into a nearby lagoon. The development would be part of Albania's push for high-end tourism, a shift from its current reputation as a budget destination. Prime Minister Edi Rama has expressed enthusiasm for the project, seeing it as an opportunity to attract wealthy visitors and boost the country's economy.
However, the proposed site lies within the Vjose-Narte Protected Landscape, an area of significant ecological importance. Conservation groups warn that the development could threaten habitats for pelicans, flamingos, and several endangered species. The region is also part of one of the last wild, coastal ecosystems in the Mediterranean.
Albania's recent history has shaped its current development dilemma. Until 1990, the country was isolated under a repressive dictatorship, leaving much of its natural beauty untouched. As Albania emerged from communism, it found itself with a wealth of pristine landscapes, including the Vjosa River, one of Europe's only free-flowing rivers.
The government has been grappling with how to balance preservation and development. In February 2024, it amended laws to allow high-end tourism projects in protected areas, paving the way for Kushner's plans. This move has been criticized by environmentalists who argue that the country's natural heritage is being sacrificed for short-term economic gains.
Kushner's involvement in Albania raises questions about potential conflicts of interest. His private equity company, Affinity Partners, has received significant funding from Middle Eastern investors, including $2 billion from Saudi Arabia's sovereign wealth fund. Critics argue that these financial ties could influence foreign policy if Trump were to return to the White House and Kushner rejoined the administration.
"I have huge concerns. It is a stunning area, unique across the Mediterranean. And the idea of them developing this, particularly in the absence of a master plan, is a really bad idea."
The debate surrounding Kushner's project reflects broader challenges facing Albania. The country has struggled with emigration, as young people seek opportunities abroad. Proponents of development argue that projects like Kushner's could create jobs and stimulate the local economy.
However, environmentalists counter that the long-term value of preserving Albania's natural heritage outweighs short-term economic gains. They point to the success of eco-tourism initiatives, such as the Vjosa River National Park, as alternative models for sustainable development.
As Albania continues to navigate its path forward, the outcome of Kushner's proposed resort may set a precedent for how the country balances its economic aspirations with environmental stewardship. The project's fate will likely have far-reaching implications for Albania's future development and its role in preserving the Mediterranean's dwindling wild spaces.