Amid smoke and flames at the protest, Albanian student speaks about young people: No prospects and no faith in politics

During the October 15 protest in Tirana, student Samanda Toçka delivered a speech that spread widely on social media. Her words once again drew attention to young Albanians’ concerns about the future, emigration and their lack of trust in politics.

Originally from Prrenjas, Toçka is in her fifth year of studies at the University of Tirana’s Faculty of Economics. Speaking about the difficulties facing young people, she also shared the story of her family, which is split between Albania and life abroad.

According to the student, the situation for young people in Albania is dire. She said she sees no good future for them and no longer trusts politicians, including new figures in politics.

Toçka said her father has lived abroad for decades and that members of her family are scattered across different countries. Drawing on that experience, she described the impact that emigration and a lack of prospects have had on the lives of young people and many Albanian families.

Journalist Osman Stafa also shared the speech, urging those still unconvinced about joining the protest to listen to the student’s words.