Amid tensions in recent days, European representatives have reiterated that violence cannot be legitimized as a political tool. But their message was not directed only at protesters: according to their public statements, institutions also bear the burden of proving that they know how to listen to and address citizens’ grievances, a point that directly affects trust in the state and the real functioning of democracy.
The EU ambassador’s message on the protests
The European Union’s ambassador to Albania, Sofia Moreira de Sousa, described violence during protests as unacceptable and said grievances should be addressed through democratic institutions.
She stressed that in a democracy there should be no violence in the streets, while calling for citizens’ concerns to be channeled through institutional means. At the same time, the ambassador pointed out that institutions must also have the necessary capacity to address these grievances and to convince citizens that their reaction is being taken seriously.
Indirect criticism of the state: not only order, but also listening
Her statement also included an emphasis that went beyond condemning violence. According to her, politicians and the administration must strengthen institutional capacities so that grievances do not remain merely unaddressed rhetoric.
She also mentioned the need for engagement with youth, civil society and citizens, arguing that the rules of democracy are not linked to the destruction of public or private property, but to strengthening legal and institutional mechanisms where public demands are raised and addressed.
Mazzeo: peaceful protest is a fundamental right
Antonio Mazzeo, co-chair of the CoR-Albania Joint Consultative Committee, also addressed the situation in Tirana and joined the position that violence is not an acceptable means of political expression.
According to him, freedom of expression and the right to protest peacefully are fundamental European values. He called on both institutions and protesters to show responsibility and avoid escalation.
Mazzeo added that the strength of a democracy is not measured only by its ability to preserve public order, but also by guaranteeing political pluralism, democratic representation and citizens’ trust.
Territorial reform and signals of centralization
In the same public appearance, Mazzeo also touched on the debate over territorial reform. According to him, this reform should be based on the functions and duties of local government, not on electoral interests.
He said reform processes must respect EU standards and guarantee the inclusion of minorities in public life. He also referred to the report of the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities of the Council of Europe, which highlights concerns over centralizing tendencies, a lack of financial and human resources for local government, and shortcomings in consultation mechanisms.
The Veliaj case and the emphasis on due process
Mazzeo also commented on the case of Tirana Mayor Erion Veliaj, stressing the importance of due process and judicial independence.
According to the version presented by him, the report of the Congress of Local and Regional Authorities of the Council of Europe raises concern over the practice of extended pretrial detention for mayors. In this context, he said developments related to Veliaj are being followed closely by representatives of local self-government.
The statements were made during the fourth meeting of the CoR-Albania Joint Consultative Committee, which focused on the role of local government in the country’s European integration process.
The message that emerged from this forum was twofold: rejection of violence in protests, but also a clear demand that institutions not hide behind public order while citizens seek answers and real representation.