The key facts

  • Protests in Albania have been ongoing since October 13; October 20 is the seventh day
  • Rama placed chairs labeled “Dialogue” and said he was ready to meet “anywhere, anytime”
  • Protesters are raising issues of corruption and the cost of living beyond the original student demands

Seventh day of protests and a call for dialogue

Anti-government protests in Albania have continued for the seventh consecutive day. On Monday, Prime Minister Edi Rama called for dialogue. According to the ATA news agency, he placed chairs labeled “Dialogue” in front of his office. “Anyone who wants dialogue — anywhere, anytime, even here if they wish — I am ready, together with the government,” the agency quoted Rama as saying.

The Prime Minister's conditions

Rama stressed that he will not sit at the negotiating table with those involved in acts of violence. “The only ones who are not welcome are those who commit violence and those who do not distance themselves from violence,” the Prime Minister said.

Causes of the protests

The protests began on October 13. Initially, their driving force was students concerned about the cost of education, conditions at universities, and economic prospects. During the demonstrations, protesters also raised broader grievances related to corruption and the rising cost of living.