The latest reaction from the European Union Delegation following the opposition protest in Tirana has sparked strong public debate. In its statement, it emphasized that the right to peaceful assembly is a pillar of democracy, while at the same time expressing concern over acts of violence that, according to them, endangered lives.
No one disputes that violence should not be part of political life. But the question being raised today is different: on what standard are these statements made, and are they applied equally to all sides?
In the case of the protest, European representatives reacted immediately, clearly labeling the events. Meanwhile, on far more serious issues affecting citizens’ daily lives — systemic corruption, questionable tenders, serious shortages in hospitals, and abuse of public funds — the response has often been cautious, distant, or limited to the formula: “we do not comment on matters that are under judicial review.”
This is where the perception of double standards emerges.
When a protest spirals out of control, the reaction is swift and direct. When it comes to serious allegations against high-ranking officials that affect public health, the economy, and citizens’ well-being, the tone becomes technical and detached. This difference in communication creates the impression that the focus is not always proportional to the real weight of the problems.
Albanian society needs a clear stance against every form of violence — whether in the streets or in public offices. Because the damage to a country does not come only from Molotov cocktails or clashes during protests. It can also come from opaque decisions, lack of transparency, and abuse of power.
If the European Union considers the rule of law to be the foundation of the integration process, then the expectation is that the standard of reaction should be the same for everyone. Credibility is built on equal measurement, not on perceived selectivity.
Albanian citizens are not asking for diplomatic statements. They are asking for equal justice and a clear position against every injustice, regardless of which political side it comes from.
In the end, democracy is not protected only by condemning violence in the streets. It is protected by demanding full accountability from every government and by refusing to tolerate any form of abuse of power. And that is what society expects — not different standards, but equal justice for all.