Albania: Police use water cannons to disperse student protests in Tirana

Albania protests Tirana Edi Rama student demonstrations anti-government unrest

Violent clashes erupted in Tirana, Albania, as police used water cannons, tear gas, and pepper spray to disperse protesters gathered near the Ministry of Education. The demonstrations, which began as student protests, have evolved into a broader anti-government movement targeting Prime Minister Edi Rama.

Protesters reportedly threw stones, bricks, and burning containers at security forces. Tensions were further heightened by clashes between students and supporters of the Democratic Party, including followers of former Prime Minister Sali Berisha. Some students displayed banners reading ‘Rama in prison, Berisha in prison’ to signal their opposition to political party involvement in the movement.

The unrest, which has persisted for over 150 days, was initially sparked by opposition to a coastal tourism development project and has since expanded to include grievances over corruption, the healthcare system, and limited economic opportunities for youth.

Interior Minister Ervin Demo reported that approximately 350 people have been injured, including roughly 200 police officers, 100 protesters, and 40 civilians. By the end of October, 269 individuals under the age of 18 had been detained. In response to the violence, the government has introduced fines of up to 5,500 euros for those committing violent acts.

Entities

Albania · Democratic Party · Democratic Party of Albania · Edi Rama · Ervin Demo · Ministry of Education · Sali Berisha · Tirana

Claims

What the coverage asserts, and how many sources carry each claim.

[○ 1 SOURCE] The government introduced fines of up to 5,500 euros for violent acts. sapo.pt
[● 2 SOURCES] The protests began in May following opposition to a coastal tourism development project. sapo.pt · www.oslobodjenje.ba
[● 3 SOURCES] Albanian police used water cannons, tear gas, and pepper spray to disperse protesters in Tirana. nezavisen.mk · novini247.com · sapo.pt
[○ 1 SOURCE] 269 people under the age of 18 were detained by the end of October. sapo.pt
[○ 1 SOURCE] The 350 injuries include approximately 200 police officers, 100 protesters, and 40 civilians. sapo.pt
[● 2 SOURCES] Students carried a banner reading ‘Rama in prison, Berisha in prison’. nezavisen.mk · novini247.com
[○ 1 SOURCE] Approximately 350 people have been injured during the protests. sapo.pt
[● 4 SOURCES] Protesters threw stones and bricks at police officers. sapo.pt · nezavisen.mk · novini247.com · www.cmjornal.pt