Thousands of demonstrators have been filling the streets of Tirana each evening since late May, united by a growing frustration with Prime Minister Edi Rama’s administration. The primary spark for the unrest is a controversial luxury resort project slated for the Zvernec nature reserve, which is backed by Ivanka Trump and Jared Kushner. Protesters argue that the government has lacked transparency regarding this development, viewing it as a symbol of broader state corruption and environmental neglect. The sight of construction equipment and fencing in a protected area, home to rare species like the Dalmatian pelican, has deepened the public's resolve to stop the project and demand the Prime Minister's immediate resignation.

Beyond the immediate opposition to the resort, the rallies have transformed into a broader platform for grievances regarding the country's economic future. Demonstrators are expressing deep-seated anger over the rising cost of living, failing public services, and the lack of opportunity that has driven a mass exodus of the nation's youth. Despite the government charging over 100 individuals for participating in the unauthorized protests, the momentum shows no signs of slowing down. Activists and members of the Albanian diaspora have vowed to maintain the pressure, insisting that their fight for accountability and a change in leadership is far from over.