Protests in Tirana, BBC: Students attack government institutions and clash with police

The student protest in Tirana has attracted the attention of international media. The BBC reports that “thousands of students and citizens have taken to the streets of Tirana on the second day of protests against the government, which have been accompanied by acts of violence, attacks on institutions and clashes with police.”

The protest began on Tuesday outside the Ministry of Education, where students called for improved conditions at universities and more employment opportunities.

On Wednesday, the situation escalated after part of the Ministry of Education building caught fire. The Prime Minister’s Office, the Ministry of Finance, the Ministry of the Interior and several businesses in the surrounding area were also targeted by protesters.

Police intervened to disperse the crowd, using tear gas and water cannons.

Deputy Prime Minister Albana Koçiu called on protesters to remain calm and show restraint. She said that Albania does not need to burn in order to change, referring to the escalation of the situation.

Education Minister Mirela Kumbaro also stressed that the right to protest must be respected, but that civic protests and violence against public institutions are two different things.

Meanwhile, Economy Minister Delina Ibrahimaj warned that setting fire to an institution puts people’s lives at risk.

The BBC reports that the demonstrations led by students come after several months of protests against the government of Prime Minister Edi Rama, known as the “Flamingo Revolution,” in which protesters are calling for his resignation.