Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama has defended his government’s decision to spend €4 million (US$4.56 million) on a concert by American rapper Kanye West, saying the move was necessary to protect the country’s reputation and tourism industry.
The concert, scheduled for July 11 in a specially built temporary stadium outside the capital, Tirana, has sparked widespread criticism, adding to ongoing anti-government protests and renewed calls for Rama’s resignation.
Kanye West, now known as Ye, has faced bans from performing in several European countries this summer following a series of controversial remarks, including praise for Adolf Hitler and content featuring Nazi imagery. His planned performance in Albania has reignited debate over whether public funds should be used to support such an event.
In a Facebook post, Rama said the government approved the funding at the last minute to avoid disappointing nearly 25,000 overseas visitors from 80 countries who had already purchased tickets, while reassuring others concerned that the concert might be cancelled.
He argued that the event is expected to generate at least €100 million in economic benefits through tourism, with accommodation bookings already rising significantly ahead of the performance.
The Prime Minister’s explanation, however, drew strong criticism online, with many social media users questioning the decision. Some accused the government of tarnishing Albania’s image by hosting an artist whose past comments have been widely condemned.
The controversy comes as daily protests continue in Tirana, where demonstrators have been rallying for more than a month. The protests initially erupted over plans for a luxury coastal resort linked to Jared Kushner, the son-in-law of US President Donald Trump, before expanding into broader demonstrations against other development projects near protected areas.
Protesters have also accused Rama’s administration of corruption and demanded his resignation, allegations the Prime Minister has repeatedly denied.
