The key facts
- 16 detained, 49 criminal cases, 6 police officers and at least one journalist injured
- Protesters demand the resignation of Prime Minister Edi Rama over corruption allegations
- The movement opposes a coastal development project linked to Jared Kushner due to the threat to pink flamingos
Student protests in Tirana escalate into riots
Hundreds of people gathered outside the Ministry of Education building in Tirana, demanding better conditions at universities, expanded financial support for students, and more favorable employment prospects. The demonstration escalated into riots: participants threw stones, smashed shop windows, and damaged business property. Police responded with tear gas and water cannons.
Detentions and injuries
According to police data published on Wednesday, October 14, 16 people were detained, and criminal cases have been opened against 49 more protesters. Six police officers and at least one journalist were injured.
The 'Flamingo Revolution' and demands for Rama's resignation
The student demonstrations merged into a broader anti-government movement called the 'Flamingo Revolution,' which is seeking the resignation of Prime Minister Edi Rama amid corruption allegations. Protesters also oppose a luxury coastal development project linked to Jared Kushner, the son-in-law of US President Donald Trump, pointing to its possible negative environmental impact. The movement is named after the pink flamingos, which, according to activists, may be endangered by the project's implementation. According to Euronews, the riots have increased political pressure on Rama's government.
