Albanian authorities have introduced sweeping legislative measures that impose fines of up to 500,000 leks, approximately $6,130, on demonstrators found in a crowd that turns violent. The policy applies to “anyone who chooses to remain in a crowd” that is carrying out looting or acts of violence, or individuals “concealing their identity,” regardless of whether the person personally commits an offense. Albania has introduced fines of more than $6,000 for demonstrators who participate in a protest that turns violent, even if they don’t personally commit violent acts, as the government tries to clamp down on the gatherings calling for the prime minister’s resignation. On Wednesday, prime minister Edi Rama’s government adopted legislative measures imposing fines of up to 500,000 leks (€5,500, US$6,130) for “anyone who chooses to remain in a crowd” that is carrying out acts of violence.
This penalty represents six times the average monthly salary in Albania, which currently stands at roughly $1,026 before tax. The average salary before tax in Albania is €930 (US$1,026) per month.
Prime Minister Edi Rama’s government adopted these rules on Wednesday, alongside new police powers to restrict public gatherings near government, educational, and healthcare facilities if authorities perceive a risk of unrest. The measures also establish a framework for compensating businesses affected by property damage and introduce sanctions against online incitement.
The legislation takes effect immediately but requires parliamentary approval within 45 days to remain valid. Prime Minister Rama noted that the strategy was inspired by a French bill that holds demonstrators financially liable for damages occurring during protests. He has consistently blamed “foreign actors,” specifically accusing Iran and Russia of stoking the unrest through disinformation, while simultaneously calling for national dialogue.
The capital, Tirana, has faced months of recurring demonstrations that have frequently devolved into clashes between police and protesters. Originally a peaceful movement in May protesting a luxury development project involving Jared Kushner, the cause expanded by mid-October into widespread student-led demonstrations. These protesters are targeting systemic issues including government corruption, health system failures, and limited economic opportunities for the nation’s 2.3 million residents. With rallies against a luxury hotel project in a nature reserve, backed by US president Donald Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner, the leaderless movement started peacefully in May. With Agence France-Presse and Reuters. Shortcomings in the health system and the lack of prospects for young people in the country of 2.3 million people, it morphed in mid-October into a wave of student-led protests against perceived corruption.
