The European Commission has condemned violence in Tirana and other cities in Albania, saying the response to it must remain within the law and proportionate. The statement was issued on 18 October 2026 and says the unrest included arson, attacks on state institutions and the destruction of public and private property.

The Commission also said that freedom of assembly and expression are fundamental rights and core European values, and that they should be respected and exercised peacefully. The authorities’ pledge to safeguard protest rights received the Commission’s welcome.

Albania is described in the statement as a candidate country firmly committed to the European Union (EU) accession process and making important progress on its EU path. The Commission said grievances should be handled through constructive dialogue and in a peaceful manner.

Highlights

  • In its statement, the European Commission denounced arson, damage to public and private property, and assaults on Albanian state institutions in Tirana and elsewhere.
  • It paired its rejection of violence with a call for a legally compliant, proportionate response.
  • Accountability for those involved should follow due legal process, according to the statement.
  • The authorities’ pledge to safeguard protest rights received the Commission’s welcome.
  • It called for peaceful, constructive talks to address grievances as Albania progresses in its EU accession process.