Tirana witnessed a massive gathering of students on Wednesday as they protested against the escalating education expenses and corruption. The unrest led to the setting ablaze of the Education Ministry building and two banks, along with clashes with the police involving stone-throwing incidents.
Law enforcement authorities deployed water cannons and tear gas to disperse the protesters who engaged in acts of vandalism, setting fires, overturning garbage bins, and damaging local businesses.
This wave of student activism in Albania is part of a broader movement across Europe, reflecting concerns over education quality and living conditions. In France, high school students have been staging protests and school blockades, demanding improved facilities and more teachers to enhance the educational environment.
The demonstrations in Albania, which began in May, have intensified, posing a significant challenge to Prime Minister Edi Rama’s government. Deputy Prime Minister Albana Koçiu emphasized on social media that while peaceful protests are a legitimate right, violence, destruction of property, and confrontations in the streets are unacceptable.
Organizers of the student protests highlighted issues such as university conditions, rising education expenses, financial aid, and post-graduation employment prospects as key grievances fueling their activism.