Trump family's Island project, student rage and violent protests: Albania’s crisis explained

Albania is witnessing six consecutive day of protests, with students continuing to rally against the government. Despite mounting pressure, Prime Minister Edi Rama has refused to step down, describing the demonstrations as a threat to Albania’s ambition of joining the European Union. What began as a student movement demanding better educational facilities, improved employment opportunities, and a better future for young Albanians has now evolved into a broader anti-government uprising, with protesters calling for Rama’s resignation. But the roots of this unrest may run deeper than concerns over education, jobs, and the rising cost of living. The growing public anger has also drawn attention to the so-called “Pink Flamingo” controversy, surrounding a multibillion-dollar island development project linked to Jared Kushner, US President Donald Trump’s son-in-law.