Protests and clashes with police continue in Albania for seventh day

Clashes between protesters and police in Albania have continued for a seventh day, as students and other demonstrators demand better university conditions, action on corruption and Prime Minister Edi Rama’s resignation. The unrest has brought attacks on a police station and government buildings in Tirana, while Rama has rejected negotiating with the protesters and alleged that foreign forces are orchestrating the unrest.

Before Monday’s violence, official figures recorded 295 people injured, including 186 police officers. Protesters have used loosened cobblestones against riot police, who have deployed water cannon, tear gas and pepper spray; a human rights lawyer also alleges that some arrests lack evidence. Activist Sidorela Vatnikaj says the leaderless movement wants a one-year technocratic government to prepare for democratic elections, while expressing discomfort with violence.