Delegation of the European Parliament for relations with Albania and
the permanent rapporteur of the European Parliament for our country have expressed concern
regarding the protests in Tirana, calling for the reduction of tensions and non-violence.
Representatives of the European Parliament call for a peaceful dialogue
constructive among all parties involved, with the aim of finding concrete solutions to the concerns raised by the protesters.
“Respect for the rule of law remains the main standard and mandatory condition for Albania's progress on the path to membership in the European Union”,it is stated in the statement.
statement
On behalf of the Delegation of the European Parliament for relations with Albania and in the capacity of the permanent rapporteur of the European Parliament for Albania, we express our deep concern for the recent events that have taken place in the country and especially in Tirana.
We condemn the violent escalation of these protests, the attacks on public institutions and the destruction of public and private property. We call on the protesters to show maximum restraint and refrain from any act of violence, as they do not contribute to finding a solution and have no place in democracy.
We also express serious concern about reports of excessive use of police force against protesters. We call on the authorities to show restraint. We also call on the relevant bodies to do everything possible to determine individual responsibility for any act of violence, including excessive use of force.
We emphasize that the right to freedom of peaceful assembly and expression is protected both by the Charter of Fundamental Rights of the European Union and by the European Convention on Human Rights. Protesters – in this case, young people – have the right to express their views, especially on issues that directly affect their future. Therefore, we call on the authorities to protect the exercise of freedom of assembly, including peaceful protests.
We call for a peaceful, constructive and serious dialogue between all interested parties, with the aim of finding a meaningful solution to address any grievances expressed by the protesters, in accordance with Albanian laws and European standards. Respect for the rule of law remains the main standard and mandatory condition for Albania's progress on the path to membership in the European Union.
Marco TARQUINIO, MEP
Head of the Delegation for relations with Albania
Andreas SCHIEDER, MEP
Permanent reporter for Albania
