TIRANA, Albania — October 14, 2026 — The European Union Delegation in Tirana has expressed concern over the violent escalation of student protests in Albania, calling for police conduct to respect fundamental rights and for allegations of excessive force against protesters and journalists to be investigated as a matter of priority.
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In an official statement following Tuesday's protest in Tirana, the EU stressed that freedom of assembly and freedom of expression are fundamental rights and core European values that must be respected.
The delegation said it was aware of allegations that police had used excessive force against demonstrators and journalists, urging authorities to ensure that police interventions remain proportionate and comply with fundamental rights.
“We express concern regarding the violent escalation of the protest in Tirana,” the statement said.
The EU also called on all parties to reduce tensions, emphasising that constructive dialogue among those involved was the only way forward.
The statement comes after Tuesday's student demonstration escalated into clashes between protesters and police, with tear gas and water cannons deployed as tensions mounted. Reports of injuries and detentions, alongside allegations concerning police treatment of demonstrators and members of the media, have intensified scrutiny of the authorities' response.
The EU Delegation did not declare that police misconduct had been established. Instead, it called for the allegations to be investigated promptly and for fundamental rights to be respected.
The intervention is particularly significant as Albania continues its bid to join the European Union. Respect for fundamental rights, democratic standards and the freedom of journalists to report without intimidation are important issues in the country's European integration process.
The EU's message to Albanian authorities is clear: public order must be maintained in accordance with fundamental rights, and allegations of excessive force cannot be left without proper investigation.