Balkans in June 2026: the most important developments in society
In June 2026 protests in Albania against a luxury resort project linked to Jared Kushner, son-in-law of US President Donald Trump, were the main social story in the Balkans. Demonstrations began around June 2 in Tirana over the Zvërnec area and drew thousands of people within days. Critics, including environmental groups, local activists and European Union officials, said the project threatens protected coastal areas and cultural heritage, while supporters argued it could boost tourism and the economy. Mid-month, environmental activists began protests over the project's possible impact on flamingo habitats in the Narta Lagoon. Protesters accused the government of prioritising foreign investment over environmental protection, and by June 26 the protests were reported to be growing in size and intensity.
Elsewhere, Montenegrin police raided properties linked to Zvicer in Kotor and Tivat. Der Spiegel republished an article with allegations against Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić, and Montenegrin official Ivanović accused Vučić in Brussels of wanting to turn the outlet Vijesti into a media poisoner. On June 30 Italy and parts of the western Balkans issued red alerts for a heatwave, with temperatures expected to exceed 40 degrees Celsius.
by WorldBrief & Maksim Micheliov | AI-generated summary
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