Translated from Albanian · Original article in Albanian →

The OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) has reacted publicly following reports of violence during the protests by young people, students and lecturers in Tiranë. This is one of the first international reactions to the events of recent days.

In a statement published today on X, ODIHR expressed concern about reports from the ground and asked all sides to preserve the peaceful nature of the protest. Its main message is addressed to the police: according to ODIHR, law enforcement must avoid using unlawful or disproportionate force against protesters.

ODIHR goes further: every case of unlawful use of force must be investigated promptly and by an independent body. This reminds the Albanian state of the obligations it has taken on as an OSCE member to protect freedom of assembly.

The reaction comes on a tense day. Near the Ministry of Education, police used water cannon and tear gas to disperse the crowd. Despite this, the protesters regrouped and gathered in large numbers near the Prime Minister’s Office.

The events have also prompted reactions in politics. Parliament has announced that it will meet on Thursday, with an urgent interpellation of the Minister of the Interior on the agenda. Meanwhile, young people have called a national protest for Saturday at 10:00 in front of the Prime Minister’s Office.

German Bundestag member Knut Abraham has also commented on the protests. According to him, citizens are demanding an end to corruption and to the links between crime and politics.

At the time of publication, the government and the State Police had not reacted publicly to the ODIHR statement.

Source: OSCE/ODIHR (X)

https://x.com/osce_odihr/status/2112538546213183755