Student Protests Intensify in Albania as Clashes Continue

Student-led protests against Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama intensified in Tirana on Saturday, the fifth day of demonstrations, as clashes with police continued and the movement spread to other parts of the country. Thousands gathered outside the Education Ministry, where some protesters threw rocks and police responded with tear gas, stun grenades and water cannon, according to reports from the scene. The demonstrations have brought together students and other opponents of Rama’s government. Protesters have called for his resignation and cited corruption, poor university conditions, high education costs and a lack of jobs. Students have also boycotted classes. Their stated grievances contrast with Rama’s claim that unnamed foreign actors are fuelling the unrest to hinder Albania’s bid to join the European Union. The reports do not independently establish that allegation. Police figures reported on Saturday said 500 protesters had been detained by October 17, of whom 330 were released. Authorities recorded 120 police officers and 45 protesters injured. The reported count of injured protesters may be incomplete, as some injuries may not have been recorded. The protests began...