Swiss Ambassador to Albania Asked About the Zvërnec Issue: Participation in Gatherings an Important Element of Democratic Systems

Swiss Ambassador to Albania Ruth Huber paid a visit to Korçë and also met with Mayor Sotiraq Filo. During a statement to the media, Huber was asked by journalists what she thinks about the protest and whether she has anything to say to the Albanian government.

In response, Huber said that democratic institutions and people’s participation in protests are an important element of every system. Among other things, she stressed that Switzerland has provided long-term support for civil society, which is involved, among other things, in organizing protests.

Question: Our question is related to the protest taking place in Tirana and in several other cities in Albania. What do you think about the protest, how do you see it in the future, and do you have anything to say to the Albanian government?

Ruth Huber: This is a very political question and it is difficult to answer as a foreign embassy. Naturally, through our development program, we also strengthen democracy, with our support for the national parliament and for local parliaments. We have long-term support for civil society, so democratic instruments and people’s participation in protests are an important element of every system, just as they are in our own system in Switzerland.