Student protests in Tirana turn into clashes with police; 23 detained

Student demonstrations in Tirana escalated into violent clashes with police as protesters hurled stones, eggs and concrete blocks at government institutions, including the Ministry of Education. Authorities responded with tear gas and water cannon, and officials reported damage to the government building’s façade and gates.

Police said six officers were injured and 23 demonstrators were detained during the confrontations. The Association of Journalists of Albania also reported that one media worker was hurt and that security forces obstructed a film crew attempting to record events.

Organizers say the protests are driven by grievances over university conditions, rising study costs, insufficient financial support for students and limited job opportunities after graduation. Demonstrators have also denounced social inequality, corruption and the government of Prime Minister Edi Rama, calling for his resignation and broader political change.

Months-long campaign and contested development projects

The demonstrations are part of a wider anti-government campaign known as the "Revolution of the Flaming," which has continued since May. Protesters have singled out government plans to build luxury tourist complexes in protected natural areas — including a project linked to an investment company associated with Jared Kushner, the son-in-law of former U.S. President Donald Trump.

Prime Minister Edi Rama described the daily opposition gatherings as "hysteria" and said pressure would not force the government to abandon its reforms or major development plans. Deputy Prime Minister Albana Koçiu condemned the violent incidents, writing on Facebook: "Violence was not, is not and never will be a solution. Throwing stones, attacks on institutions and state police, and senseless destruction of public property are not ways for young people to express themselves."

The events in Tirana mirror a wave of student and youth activism across Europe. In France, authorities have arrested more than 5,000 people in recent unrest linked to demands for more teachers and better educational conditions, and new nationwide demonstrations are planned.

Photo: press material from the event