Understand
Albanian protests turn violent as clashes erupt across major cities
Overview
Anti-government protests in Albania have escalated into violent clashes between demonstrators and anti-riot police across Tirana and other major cities. Originally sparked months ago by a controversial luxury tourism project linked to Donald Trump's son-in-law Jared Kushner and broader corruption allegations, the movement has seen students and young people join demonstrations demanding action on living costs and the resignation of Prime Minister Edi Rama. Government buildings have been attacked and set on fire, with police responding using tear gas, water cannon and batons. Prime Minister Rama has blamed the opposition and alleged foreign interference for the unrest while ruling out his resignation.
Key points
- Protests and clashes between demonstrators and anti-riot police have spread from Tirana to other major Albanian cities including Durrës, Shkodër, Korçë and Vlora.
- Government institutions and a floor of the education ministry have been set on fire during the unrest.
- The demonstrations initially began over a summer-long anti-government 'Flamingo' movement opposing a luxury tourism project on the Adriatic coast.
- A newer student movement joined the protests to demand action over high education fees, textbook costs, and the overall cost of living.
- Participants and observers describe the violence as a radicalised phase following months of peaceful protests being ignored by the government.
- Prime Minister Edi Rama has blamed opposition leader Sali Berisha and alleged foreign actors for instigating the chaos while refusing to resign.