
The European Commission has reacted to the violent protests in Albania, condemning acts of arson and attacks on state institutions, while emphasizing that the right to protest must be respected and exercised peacefully.
"We condemn the use of violence in Tirana and other cities in Albania, including arson, attacks on state institutions, and the destruction of public and private property. Violence has no place in a democratic society, and the response to it must remain within the law and be proportionate."
Those responsible must be punished in accordance with the law and through a fair process. Freedom of assembly and expression are fundamental rights and core European values, which must be respected and exercised peacefully.
"We welcome the commitment of the Albanian authorities that the right to protest will be protected. In a candidate country strongly committed to the EU accession process and making significant progress on its path towards the EU, grievances must be addressed through constructive dialogue and in a peaceful manner."