Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama has declared he will not resign in response to student-led demonstrations that have seen clashes between protesters and police in Tirana for a third consecutive day. Demonstrators are demanding Rama's resignation and greater support for students, citing poor university conditions and high tuition fees.
Police have deployed teargas and water cannon to disperse protesters marching on main roads in Tirana, with the unrest also spreading to other cities. Hours of violent clashes occurred on Tuesday and Wednesday, during which protesters reportedly entered government buildings and set one on fire.
Mr Rama stated in written responses to Reuters that governments are changed through democratic elections, not revolution. He added that his responsibility is to address legitimate concerns and continue Albania's progress towards European Union membership. Police reported 51 officers were injured during Wednesday's protests, and 65 people were arrested on suspicion of attacking police officers and property. Tirana public hospital reported seven injured protesters sought medical treatment.
The EU delegation in Tirana has called for de-escalation and condemned the violent escalation and destruction of property, urging protesters to exercise restraint. Albania is currently leading the EU accession process among Balkan countries, aiming for entry as early as 2028.