Dua Lipa Singer backs Albania protests over Trump-linked resort

Dua Lipa has voiced support for protesters opposing a luxury resort project in Albania linked to the family of US President Donald Trump, describing the movement as “inspiring” and raising concerns about government transparency.

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Speaking on her Service95 Book Club podcast, Lipa discussed the issue with Albanian author Lea Ypi. She said the government had weakened environmental protections for the proposed coastal development.

Since then, protests have continued in Albania since late May.

Demonstrators oppose plans to build a luxury hotel linked to Ivanka Trump and Jared Kushner inside a protected nature reserve.

Dua Lipa questions environmental decision

Meanwhile, Lipa criticised the government’s handling of the project. She said authorities changed environmental laws without public consultation.

“What I actually find concerning is the principle that the government could just change the law to remove the environmental protection without any kind of public consultation,” she said.

Moreover, the 30-year-old singer, whose parents are of Kosovan-Albanian origin, praised the public response.

“I find it so inspiring to see how much people really care,” she said, referring to the ongoing demonstrations.

Lipa added that the issue reflected deeper structural problems and called for development that better supports local communities.

Resort project fuels wider political tensions

Authorities first announced the luxury resort project in 2024. However, protests intensified in late May. Workers installed barbed-wire fencing and brought heavy machinery onto the beaches.

As a result, the controversy has evolved into a broader protest movement over alleged corruption. Demonstrators are also demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Edi Rama.

Environmental activist Besjana Gurri welcomed Lipa’s comments, calling them a “powerful message” to the Albanian government.

She told AFP that Lipa’s support would draw more international attention to the campaign. She added that it would strengthen the voices of protesters in Tirana.