Serious clashes erupted in Albania as protesters attempted to enter Prime Minister Edi Rama's office, parliament and the finance ministry, amid growing demonstrations against the government.
The unrest comes as opposition pressure intensifies, while Rama insists he has no intention of stepping down and argues that the protests are being driven by political opponents.
Attempts to enter government buildings
According to reports, demonstrators sought to gain access to the prime minister's office, the Albanian parliament and the Ministry of Finance, leading to confrontations with police.
The situation remained tense as clashes between protesters and security forces continued.
Rama rejects calls to resign
Prime Minister Edi Rama said he would not resign despite mounting pressure from opposition groups.
He argued that the demonstrations were not spontaneous and claimed they were being encouraged by the opposition.
Protesters cite corruption concerns
Protesters say their primary grievance is corruption.
They accuse Rama of being the most corrupt prime minister the country has seen and argue that rising living costs are making everyday life increasingly difficult.
Housing and youth issues fuel anger
The demonstrations have also focused on the housing crisis and employment opportunities for young people.
Protesters argue that even graduates struggle to find work in Albania. Many say they have worked in Greece and other countries and returned with savings, but soaring living costs have made it difficult to build a future at home.
According to participants, the situation has become unsustainable.
Part of wider European protest trend
The mobilisations are being presented as part of a broader wave of protests across Europe, with demands centred largely on housing affordability and corruption.
Source: ERT
