Protest over coastal resort project turns violent in Albania, Greece seeks clarification
Violent clashes erupted during a protest against a planned tourist resort in Albania's coastal village of Zvërnec, leaving several people injured and prompting Greece to seek clarification after a Greek citizen was hurt in the unrest.
Residents and environmental activists gathered Saturday to oppose the construction of a large tourism complex in the Dalani area, part of the environmentally sensitive Pishë Poro–Narta coastal zone. Protesters argue the project threatens biodiversity and have called for an immediate halt to construction works.
Tensions escalated when demonstrators clashed with individuals they identified as private security personnel guarding the site. Videos circulated on social media appeared to show protesters being forcibly restrained, while reports from the scene indicated the use of tear gas and stone-throwing during the confrontation.
Greece expresses concern
Greece's Foreign Ministry voiced "deep concern" over the incidents, noting that a Greek citizen was injured during the protest.
In a statement, Athens said its embassy in Tirana had provided consular and medical assistance and was seeking a full investigation into the circumstances surrounding the incident.
The ministry also stressed the importance of respecting the rule of law, protecting property rights and safeguarding the rights of members of the Greek National Minority, while highlighting the need to preserve protected environmental areas as part of Albania's European Union accession obligations.
Disputed development project
The resort project has drawn criticism from local residents and environmental groups, who argue that construction in one of Albania's most ecologically significant coastal regions could damage sensitive ecosystems.
According to local reports, the development is being carried out by Zvërnec South Adriatic Development, which has been linked to international investment interests involving Jared Kushner, Ivanka Trump and Qatari investors.
Conflicting accounts
Village officials and protesters accused security personnel of using excessive force. Local community representatives said one protester lost consciousness after being struck and later required hospital treatment.
Albanian police said demonstrators attempted to breach a security perimeter and damage the construction site's fencing, leading to the confrontation. Authorities confirmed that legal proceedings had been launched against two private security employees and 15 protesters.
The development company condemned what it described as attacks on private property but did not directly address allegations of violence by security staff.
The incident has intensified debate in Albania over environmental protection, property rights and large-scale tourism investments along the country's coastline.
Source:Protothema
