EU Commission Condemns Violence at Albania Protests

The European Commission condemned the violence during anti-government protests in Tirana and other Albanian cities, urging that those responsible be held accountable under the law. The Commission specifically cited arson, attacks on state institutions, and the destruction of public and private property, stating that violence has no place in a democratic society and that the response must be lawful and proportionate. It also stressed that freedom of assembly and expression are fundamental European values to be exercised peacefully. The statement welcomed Albanian authorities' commitment to protecting the right to protest, noting that as an EU candidate country, disputes should be resolved through constructive dialogue. The protests began in June over a development project linked to Jared Kushner, later expanding into student demonstrations against corruption.