Dua Lipa backs Albanian protests against Trump-linked resort

Global pop sensation Dua Lipa has voiced her support for ongoing protests in Albania against a controversial luxury resort development planned on the country's coast. The project, associated with Ivanka Trump and Jared Kushner, has faced mounting opposition since late May, with demonstrators raising concerns about government transparency and environmental regulations.

Speaking on her podcast "Service95 Book Club," Lipa discussed the issue with Albanian writer Lea Ypi. The singer expressed deep concern over the government's decision to alter laws and remove environmental protections for the resort project without public consultation. "I am really concerned about the principle that the government can just change the law and remove environmental provisions without any public consultation," the 30-year-old artist, who has Albanian roots, stated.

Lipa commended the local activists, saying, "I am inspired to see that people really care about this." She highlighted the daily demonstrations as evidence of public engagement. The singer also suggested that the problem is structural, emphasizing the need for changes that benefit the people. The resort plans, initially presented in 2024, sparked a new wave of protests when barbed wire fences and bulldozers appeared on beaches in late May.

The resistance to the project has fueled accusations of corruption and led to calls for the resignation of Prime Minister Edi Rama. Environmental activist Besjana Gurri welcomed Lipa's comments, telling AFP that the singer's voice would draw greater international attention to the cause and amplify the concerns of those protesting in Tirana. Gurri believes Lipa's intervention is a powerful message to the Albanian government.