Albania: MEP condemns police violence as government announces officer bonuses

Dutch MEP Anna Strolenberg has addressed the European Parliament regarding reports of police violence against student protesters in Albania. Strolenberg criticized the use of force, citing instances of protesters being targeted with rubber bullets and individuals being beaten or arrested. She urged the European Union to take action, stating that Albania should not be treated as the personal property of Prime Minister Edi Rama and his associates.

In response to the ongoing unrest, Prime Minister Edi Rama announced a 2,500 euro bonus for police officers involved in managing the protests, alongside promised salary increases effective January 1. Socialist Deputy Pirro Vengu supported the decision to prioritize police compensation, arguing that essential public service roles—including teachers, military personnel, medics, and firefighters—should lead the state administration's salary pyramid due to their societal responsibilities.