Albania Protests Turn Violent as Students Join Anti-Government Movement
Clashes between police and student demonstrators escalated in the Albanian capital, with the protests evolving to encompass broader grievances and a push for the prime minister's resignation.
Police used water cannons to disperse student protesters in Tirana, Albania, on Wednesday, marking the second day of clashes. The demonstrations, initially focused on issues within the public education system, have broadened to include a larger anti-government movement.
Students have joined the “Flamingo Revolution,” a campaign calling for the resignation of Prime Minister Edi Rama over allegations of corruption. The movement has also been protesting a proposed coastal development project reportedly linked to Jared Kushner, U.S. President Donald Trump’s son-in-law.
Late Tuesday, a student rally turned violent as protesters smashed shop windows and rioted. Police responded with tear gas. Authorities reported that 23 individuals were detained overnight, and six officers along with one journalist sustained injuries.
The Flamingo Revolution, named for the pink bird depicted on protest signs, has organized months of rallies that have heightened political tensions in Albania. Riot police faced off against demonstrators who erected barricades using burning trash bins.