Dua Lipa backs Albania protests against Trump family real estate project

British-Kosovian singer Dua Lipa has voiced her support for ongoing protests in Albania against a luxury tourism complex involving the Trump family. Describing the demonstrations as "inspirational," Lipa shared concerns about government transparency in approving the project.

Protesters in Tirana have been demonstrating since late May against the construction of a hotel complex managed by Ivanka Trump and Jared Kushner. They argue the project, planned for a coastal nature reserve, bypasses environmental protection measures without public consultation. Lipa echoed these worries, stating, "I am concerned about the principle that the government could simply change the law to circumvent environmental protection measures without any public consultation."

“

I am concerned about the principle that the government could simply change the law to circumvent environmental protection measures without any public consultation.

Lipa, whose parents are from Kosovo and who feels a strong connection to the Balkans, highlighted the importance of public involvement. "It seems very inspirational to me to see the extent to which people are involved," she said, referring to the daily protests. The singer believes the issue is structural and requires a "population-supported" model.

“

It seems very inspirational to me to see the extent to which people are involved.

The $4.6 billion project, first presented in 2024, has faced significant backlash since May when fences were erected and bulldozers arrived at one of the targeted beaches. The protests have become a focal point for anger over government corruption, with demonstrators also calling for Prime Minister Edi Rama's resignation.

Environmental activist Besjana Guri welcomed Lipa's statement, calling it a "powerful message" to the Albanian government. Guri expressed confidence that Lipa's voice would draw greater international attention to the controversy and amplify the concerns of those protesting in Tirana.

“

a powerful message