Tirana Student Protest Erupts into Clashes with Police
A student-led anti-government demonstration in Tirana over university conditions and living costs escalated into hours of clashes with police. Protesters threw stones and petrol bombs, while officers responded with tear gas and water cannon; police said 16 protesters were arrested and 49 were under investigation. The protest was linked to the broader Flamingo Revolution movement, which also seeks Prime Minister Edi Rama’s resignation.
The rally began outside Albania’s Education Ministry, with students voicing concerns about university facilities, tuition expenses, and everyday living costs. Organizers from the Flamingo Revolution, which emerged in June from environmental protests and later adopted broader anti-government aims, urged students to take part. Participants also repeated the movement’s call for Prime Minister Edi Rama to step down.
During Tuesday night’s unrest, police reported arresting 16 people and investigating 49 more. Health authorities said Wednesday that 13 individuals had received care, with six still hospitalized in Tirana. After footage showed a 19-year-old with a fractured leg being handled roughly, the State Police chief suspended four officers and a station’s public order head.
The clashes may deepen distrust between some young Albanians and state institutions, while the reported injuries could intensify scrutiny of policing tactics. Students and city residents might face disruption, and the arrests may deter some from joining future demonstrations. At the same time, the episode could widen attention to university conditions and living costs, potentially strengthening the broader anti-government movement’s public profile.