The European People’s Party has issued a reaction to the protests in Tirana, calling on the Albanian government to swiftly investigate any allegations of excessive use of force by police. At the same time, the statement places at the center of the debate the responsibility of institutions to guarantee the right to peaceful protest, in a tense political and social climate.
Call for an independent investigation into allegations of violence
In the statement published on the social network X, the EPP calls for any allegations of excessive, unlawful and disproportionate use of force to be investigated immediately, thoroughly and independently.
The message comes as political pressure on the official version of how the protests were managed, underlining that law enforcement bodies must act at all times proportionately and with care in their responses.
The right to protest and the voice of young people
The EPP stresses that the right to protest peacefully must be fully respected. The statement specifically mentions the need for the voices of young people to be heard and for their right to protest to be protected.
This wording shifts the focus away from public order as the sole narrative, toward freedom of assembly and the democratic standards that institutions claim to represent.
Attacks on property described as unacceptable
On the other hand, the EPP condemns every unlawful act of violence and every attack by all sides, especially against property and the physical integrity of individuals.
The statement takes a dual position: it seeks accountability for any overreach by police, while at the same time considering violence and damage to property in the name of protest unacceptable.
Call for dialogue and accountable government
The reaction says the current tensions should be addressed through dialogue, de-escalation and democratic engagement among the parties.
The EPP links this situation to a broader political picture, stressing that Albania’s future should be built on accountable government, the rule of law, the fight against corruption and opportunities for young people within the country.
The EPP statement comes at a time when the management of the protests and the relationship between citizens, police and the government are once again being put to the test.
Beyond the diplomatic language, the political message is clear: allegations of violence cannot be closed with administrative justifications, while the right to protest and institutional responsibility remain at the center of attention.