Rama Rejects Resignation Calls as Albania Protests Escalate

Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama rejected calls to resign on Sunday, October 18, as student-led protests widened into anti-government demonstrations and violent clashes in Tirana. The unrest has left hundreds injured, led to arrests and damaged public buildings and businesses, according to Albanian officials and reports from the demonstrations. Rama said in a video address that the unrest threatened Albania’s ambition to join the European Union by 2030. He also invited students to engage in dialogue. Protesters have demanded his resignation, while raising concerns about university fees and conditions, limited job opportunities, living costs and alleged corruption. Clashes entered a sixth day on Sunday, when demonstrators gathered outside the Education Ministry and threw rocks and other projectiles at police. Fires were reported at public buildings, including the headquarters of the governing Socialist Party. Police used tear gas and water cannons, and reports said officers also fired rubber bullets. On Saturday, national police chief Skender Hita said rubber bullets had been used in a limited manner. Albania’s Health Ministry reported 28 injuries during Sunday’s clashes,...