Kanye West has officially been cleared to go ahead with his Albania performance this summer, despite ongoing backlash tied to his past comments.
On Thursday (April 30), Edi Rama confirmed the show in a short social media update, revealing it will take place on July 11 in Tirana.
The announcement positions the concert as a major international moment for the country, even as Kanye West continues to face criticism in other regions.
Albanian officials have emphasized that the event won’t be funded with public money, noting it will be driven by ticket sales. That said, government bodies are expected to support logistics, pointing to the potential economic benefits.
The country’s Ministry of Culture described the concert as a chance to boost tourism and raise Albania’s profile as a go-to destination for large-scale entertainment. Officials believe it could attract global attention and a wave of visitors.
“In every aspect, it is our obligation to welcome and facilitate the development of such events that bring numerous benefits to tourism and the economy,” the ministry said in a statement.
According to reports, organizers are gearing up for a huge crowd, with plans to build a temporary venue that can hold tens of thousands—far beyond the capacity of Tirana’s current stadiums.
The decision comes as Kanye West continues lining up performances in other regions. Several shows across Europe have been scrapped in recent months, and he’s also faced travel restrictions in places like the United Kingdom and Australia following backlash over antisemitic remarks and controversial elements in his music.
Within Albania, the move hasn’t gone without criticism. Activists and media voices have raised concerns, arguing that hosting Kanye West sends the wrong signal considering his past statements.
Isa Myzyraj, head of the Association of Journalists of Albania, said: “It is incomprehensible why the Prime Minister decides to provoke [people] by promoting Kanye West.”
Even with the backlash, Albanian officials seem set on moving forward, highlighting the concert’s potential to boost the economy and establish the country as a destination for major cultural events.
Kanye West, who has previously issued public apologies for parts of his past behavior, has linked some of his actions to mental health challenges, including bipolar disorder.
