The key facts

  • In Tirana, protesters threw Molotov cocktails, fireworks and stones at police; police used water cannons.
  • The unrest is part of months-long anti-government protests against corruption and for better university conditions, with demands for Edi Rama's resignation.
  • According to the authorities, around 300 people were injured, more than half of them police officers; Rama said protests are a right, but violence is a crime.

Clashes in Tirana

On Monday, fierce clashes broke out between protesters and police in Tirana, the capital of Albania. Demonstrators pelted law enforcement officers with bottles filled with an ignitable mixture, fireworks and stones, and also set fire to rubbish bins, while special police units advanced through the streets. The police responded with water cannons.

Context of the protests

The unrest marked an escalation of months-long anti-government protests. Participants express outrage over corruption, demand improved conditions at universities and call on Prime Minister Edi Rama to resign.

Government response and number of injured

Edi Rama accused the demonstrators of crossing a 'red line', stressing that protests are a citizens' right, but violence is a crime. According to the authorities, around 300 people were injured in the clashes, more than half of them police officers.