Translated from Albanian · Original article in Albanian →

“Only victory!” – Even from his hospital bed, Erjon Vishkulli has a message for everyone who took to the streets for Albania.

Erjon Vishkulli, 28, was wounded in his left eye during the 24 October protest in Tiranë. According to his account to the media, he was about 30 metres from the police forces when he was hit by a rubber bullet. He took only two steps and fell to the ground.

Today, as he faces severe pain and uncertainty about his eyesight, Erjon is awaiting specialised medical treatment. His injury is a grave reminder of the cost that taking part in protests can carry, and of the importance of fully clarifying the circumstances of the incident.

But amid the pain, fear and uncertainty, he chose not to end his story in despair.

“Only victory!” Erjon said.

When asked what he meant by this, his answer was short but meaningful:

“Albania is ours!”

This is the sentence that should stay in the mind of every citizen. Not to seek confrontation, but to remember that a country’s future does not belong to temporary holders of power. It belongs to its citizens, to the young people who demand dignity, and to everyone who believes Albania can be fairer.

A protest does not end when the crowd disperses. It continues every time citizens refuse to accept injustice, demand accountability and refuse to stay silent.

We wish Erjon a full recovery. The circumstances of his injury must be investigated and responsibility established by the competent authorities.

Because Albania is not the property of anyone in power. Albania belongs to its citizens.