Violent clashes erupt across Albania

Protesters and anti-riot police have clashed in Albania's main cities in scenes not witnessed for decades. Government buildings have been attacked and some private businesses too.

Protests spread beyond the capital

Clashes have spread from Tirana to Durrës, Shkodër, Lezhë and Vlora in the west, Gjirokastër in the south and Korçë in the east. The scale is far larger than previous demonstrations.

Students demand action on education costs

The demonstrations were announced as a student movement demanding government action on high education fees and books, and the higher cost of living. Secondary schools joined in, swelling numbers.

Clashes turn violent and destructive

Masked protesters threw stones at police, who responded with water cannon, tear gas and batons. A floor of the education ministry was set on fire, with other government institutions ablaze too.

Flamingo movement preceded the violence

For one hundred thirty five days over the summer, Albanians in central Tirana held pictures of a pink flamingo, calling on Prime Minister Edi Rama to resign over a mega-tourism project linked to Jared Kushner.

Peaceful protests failed to produce change

The flamingo movement was attended by young and old, parents with children and grandparents. After months and an unusually hot summer, their numbers dwindled with no sign the government was meeting demands.

Young protesters cite government dismissal

One protester called Livia said five months of peaceful protest were met with humiliation, ridicule and mockery. She said it was a clear message the government would not allow their voice to be heard.

“met with humiliation, ridicule, mockery”

Rama blames opposition leader Berisha

Prime Minister Edi Rama has blamed Sali Berisha for instigating chaos. He said all the destruction is the work of the opposition to prevent Albania's progress and ruled out resigning.

Rama alleges foreign interference

Prime Minister Rama suggested foreign countries do not wish for Albania to be at peace or part of the European family.

“These are foreign hands that do not wish for Albania to be at peace”

Violence threatens tourism and EU path

Although street violence remains contained for now, the UK government has urged visitors to avoid demonstrations. Albania's government warned that violence tarnishes the country's image, affecting tourism and its European path.