In brief
Albanian students and university activists have struck the streets of Tirana for a week, confronting riot police after demands for improved university funding and an end to corruption. Police reports say 295 people – 186 officers – have been hurt, while Prime Minister Edi Rama threatened that negotiations would collapse the state. Residents witnessed tear‑gas canisters and water cannons, and the protests have spread to government buildings and a popular park. Human‑rights lawyers warn of unlawful arrests, as activists claim they are responding to a climate of political oppression.
Seventh day of violent clashes between Albanian protesters and police
Albanian protesters in Tirana have fought with riot police on the seventh consecutive day of violent clashes.
Official figures show 295 people, including 186 police officers, have been injured before Monday’s surge. The protesters – many high‑school and university students – demand the resignation of Prime Minister Edi Rama and an overhaul of university conditions.
"The moment the state negotiates with this," Rama told officers while brandishing a rock hurled at the police on Sunday, "the state has fallen.
Police have used water‑cannon and tear‑gas canisters against crowds that chased them through a popular park, while a café became a spontaneous refuge where waiters streamed with disembodied eyes from the fumes.
"Policemen rarely present evidence in court and throw people for the cover for a short period," says human‑rights lawyer Gentian Sejrani, who has defended over a hundred arrested protesters.
"Those who are actually throwing stuff at the police rarely get caught, because they run the fastest," Sejrani adds, underscoring a climate of impunity.
Youth in Albania say they are inspired by Gen Z protests worldwide and feel their voices will be heard only through collective action. Activist Sidorela Vatnikaj says she coordinates a day-to-day relief effort, providing first aid, legal representation and support for families affected by the turmoil.
"We need a technocratic government for one year to prepare for real, democratic elections," Vatnikaj says, accusing Rama of rigging elections and colluding with foreign investors and organised crime.
Rama has ruled Albania for 13 years and promised EU membership by 2030, claiming he alone can deliver on that promise. The continued violence paints an increasingly tense picture for the country’s political future.
