British singer Dua Lipa called the protest movement in Albania against a resort connected to former US President Donald Trump “inspiring” and voiced concerns over the project’s implementation.
Her remarks were made during a podcast published on July 14, as demonstrations intensified pressure on the government in Tirana. Protests have been ongoing since the end of May against the planned construction of a luxury hotel associated with Trump’s daughter Ivanka and her husband Jared Kushner in a nature reserve along the country’s coast.
Concerns about government transparency
In the Service95 Book Club podcast with Albanian author Lea Ypi, Lipa raised concerns about the government’s transparency in approving the project. “I am really concerned about the principle by which the government can just change the law to override environmental protection without any public consultation,” said the 30-year-old singer, whose parents are Kosovar Albanians.
She added: “I think it’s extremely inspiring to see how much people really care,” referring to the daily demonstrations. The singer noted that the issue is structural and emphasized the need for reconstruction “in a way that it works in the interest of the people.”
Although the planned resort was first announced in 2024, the latest wave of protests began after barbed wire and bulldozers appeared on the beaches at the end of May. Resistance to the project has sparked broader discontent over corruption, with protesters now demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Edi Rama.
Reaction of environmental activists
The singer’s comments were welcomed by local environmental activist Besiana Guri, who told AFP that it was a “powerful message” to the Albanian government.
“I am sure that her voice will help draw more international attention to this struggle and increase the concern of people protesting in Tirana,” added Guri.
Source: The Straits Times
