Albania's Rama Says He Won't Resign as Student Protests Enter Third Day
Albania's Prime Minister Edi Rama said on 15 October 2026 that he will not resign over student-led demonstrations. Protesters and police clashed in Tirana for a third consecutive day, and the protests have spread from the capital to other cities. The Guardian
Demonstrators are demanding Rama's resignation and more support for students, citing poor university conditions and high tuition fees. Early accounts of the October demonstrations described them as centred on education and jobs, and on education and social inequality.
In written responses to Reuters, Rama said governments are changed through democratic elections, noting that Albania held elections last year. Reuters He won a fourth term in those elections. He said he would be ready to discuss the rising cost of education.
Police used teargas and water cannon to disperse demonstrators marching along main roads around Tirana. On Tuesday, student protesters hurled bricks and concrete blocks at the Education Ministry in the capital. Reuters Banks and buildings burned as protests erupted in Tirana. Reuters
On Tuesday and Wednesday, protesters smashed into several government buildings and set at least one on fire. Police said 51 officers were injured during Wednesday's protests. Police said 65 people were arrested on suspicion of attacking police officers, institutions, public and private property.
Tirana public hospital reported that seven protesters injured in the violence sought medical treatment. The European Union delegation in Tirana condemned the violent escalation at the protest and the destruction of public and private property. Albania is aiming for EU entry as early as 2028.
