Serious clashes erupted yesterday, Saturday, in Zvërnec, Albania, during a residents’ protest against the construction of a tourist resort in an ecologically sensitive area, resulting in the injury of a Greek ethnic minority member.
The Greek Foreign Ministry issued a statement protesting to Tirana, demanding full investigation of the incident and accountability, while acknowledging “the initial response from Albanian authorities.” Athens simultaneously expressed deep concern about the clashes and pointedly reminded that compliance with European Union standards is a prerequisite for Albania’s EU accession process.
Foreign Ministry statement
“The Foreign Ministry expresses deep concern over the incidents that occurred yesterday, May 30, 2026, in Zvërnec, Albania, during a residents’ protest regarding their property rights, among whom was a Greek citizen who was injured. The Greek Embassy in Tirana immediately took all necessary steps to provide all required consular and medical assistance.
The Greek Embassy in Tirana is making the necessary representations to the Albanian side demanding full investigation of the incident and accountability. We note in this context the initial response from Albanian authorities.
We emphasize the need for full respect for the rule of law, including protection of the rights and properties of members of the Greek National Minority, as well as the importance of effective protection of environmentally protected areas, within the framework of alignment with European Union standards, compliance with which is a prerequisite for progress in the accession process”.
Opposition to the tourist development
Protesters took to the streets yesterday in Zvërnec, Albania, opposing the construction of a large tourist complex in the Daláni area. Demonstrators clashed with individuals they characterized as private security for the companies undertaking the construction of the tourist complex.
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Protesters emphasize the need to protect the natural environment and oppose construction plans in one of the most ecologically sensitive zones of the Albanian coast, as the biodiversity of the Pishë Poro–Narta area is threatened. They demand immediate halt of construction work and a review of the project. The development is reportedly assigned to “Zvërnec South Adriatic Development” company, which is linked to international investment structures involving Jared Kushner, Ivanka Trump, and Qatari businessmen.
During the demonstration, clashes broke out between protesters and individuals wearing civilian clothes, hats, and sunglasses. Protesters claimed these individuals were private security for the project. Videos circulated on social media showed a protester being dragged on the ground by these individuals.
The presence of police forces who had formed a protective cordon around the construction site but did not intervene to de-escalate the situation further “inflamed” tensions. Tear gas was used in some areas and stone-throwing occurred.