Protesters in the Albanian capital of Tirana clashed with police on Tuesday as demonstrations against a luxury coastal development project reached their 100th day. The unrest intensified as parliament resumed its session following a summer recess, with protesters challenging a police cordon in the city center by pelting officers in riot gear with eggs and tomatoes.
The ongoing demonstrations, which have been dubbed the “flamingo revolution” in reference to protest signs depicting pink birds that could be affected by the construction, were initially centered on the coastal project. Critics of the development, which is linked to Jared Kushner, the son-in-law of U.S. President Donald Trump, argue that the project would result in severe environmental damage and restrict public access to the coastline.
What began as a focused environmental campaign has evolved into a broader challenge against the nation's long-ruling Socialist government. Prime Minister Edi Rama, who has become a primary target of the protesters' anger, remains a staunch supporter of the investment. Rama argues that the project is essential for modernizing Albania, a country that endured decades of isolation under Communist rule.
During the clashes, demonstrators were heard chanting “Arrest Rama!” as police officers escorted lawmakers into and out of the parliament building. Authorities detained several protesters, though it was not immediately confirmed if any formal arrests had been made.
