European Parliament Vice President Nicolae Ștefănuță has publicly expressed support for protesters in Tirana, saying developments in Albania are being closely followed in Europe
In a statement from Strasbourg on Wednesday, Ștefănuță raised concerns over reported arrests of protesters, alleged censorship of journalists and restrictions affecting social media accounts covering the demonstrations, which have now continued for more than 100 days.
 |
“I am here to talk about Albanians who have been leading a revolution for more than 100 days. They protest every day and now they are being arrested by the police. Journalists are being censored. The social networks of those covering the protest are being shut down,” Ștefănuță said.
The European Parliament vice president said he has personally been to Tirana, participated in a protest and spoken with demonstrators.
He then addressed Albanian citizens directly, saying they are not alone in their demands for transparency, action against corruption, environmental protection and respect for their rights.
“You are not alone, Albanians. You are not alone in your efforts for transparency, against corruption, for nature and your rights,” he said.
Ștefănuță also said that if Albania wants to be part of Europe, the state must respect the rules and its citizens.
The European Parliament lists Ștefănuță as one of its Vice-Presidents, with responsibility for relations with European civil society organizations, including the European Citizens’ Initiative.
The statement comes as the daily demonstrations in Tirana continue after more than 100 consecutive days, keeping issues of government accountability, corruption, transparency and citizens’ rights at the center of the political debate.