Molotov cocktails, arson and clashes: Student protests in Albania escalate

Student protests in Albania have escalated into violent clashes, arson, and Molotov cocktails. Students are protesting against study conditions, the high cost of living, and unemployment, calling for the resignation of Prime Minister Rama. Police responded with tear gas and water cannons.

Student protests in Albania escalated on Wednesday into violent clashes with police in Tirana, the capital of Albania. On the second day of demonstrations, protesters threw stones and Molotov cocktails at government buildings, setting fire to the Ministry of Education building and a nearby bank branch. Police responded with tear gas and water cannons. At the heart of the protest is young people's frustration with study conditions, the high cost of living, and lack of employment opportunities. Students claim the government has not kept promises made following the 2018 protests, and there are calls for the resignation of Prime Minister Edi Rama. The protests expanded on Wednesday as students from additional institutions and high school students joined. The European Union delegation in Albania expressed concern and called on the police to act proportionately. The Ombudsman is examining whether the police's use of force was necessary and proportionate.