TIRANA, Dec. 9 – Representatives of Albania’s top international partners, the European Union and the United States, have issued statements condemning the violence at Tuesday’s opposition rally.
The Delegation of the European Union to Albania said the right of the citizens to express concerns and discontent through peaceful protest is a core feature of modern European democracy and as such shall be preserved. But it also noted that a number of acts of violence and vandalism were reported.
“Resort to violence is unacceptable,” the EU delegation’s statement said. “We call on all parties and public officials including not least the opposition to condemn the violence, and engage in a constructive political dialogue,” the EU statement noted.
The U.S. Embassy’s statement had a similar tone, saying it condemns the violence that took place during the protests in Tirana.
“The right of citizens to peacefully assemble, petition the government, and protest is a hallmark of a free and healthy society. However, acts such as throwing stones, lighting structures on fire, and damaging public property is inconsistent with democratic values,” the U.S. Embassy said. “We call on the Democratic Party of Albania and all other parties to renounce these acts and to take all necessary steps to ensure that any future demonstrations remain peaceful and constructive.”
No one was hurt during the rally, but protesters threw eggs, paint, hard objects and smoke fireworks toward the Prime Minister’s Office, in front of which the rally was being held. A modern art installation, a recent addition to the building, was partially damaged. A monument under construction was set on fire after the protest because it featured a replica bunker, which was to serve as part of the museum dealing with the country’s communist past. But some those who suffered under the regime say it glorifies communism instead. Rocks were also thrown at windows of nearby ministries.
