Prime Minister Edi Rama has renewed his call for dialogue with protesters, urging them to reject violence, stone-throwing and arson targeting public institutions.

Rama said the government stands ready to hold talks at any time and without conditions. He also called on protest organizers to lead by example and help ease tensions.

He stressed that protecting lives, citizens’ dignity and national security must remain the top priority. To reinforce his appeal, Rama shared a joint statement from civil society organizations calling for an immediate end to violence and greater protection for demonstrators and bystanders.

“Set an example of dialogue first, and the government will be there,” Rama said.

He also urged organizers to distance themselves from violence, arson and the alleged misuse of minors. Such actions, he argued, undermine citizens’ right to demonstrate.

“Let us protect the life and dignity of every person. No life should be put at risk, and no one should gamble with the country’s future,” he said.

Rama concluded with a direct invitation: “Come, let’s talk. Wherever you want. Whenever you want. Without conditions.”

Civil Society Organizations Call for End to Violence and Protection of Demonstrators

In a joint statement, civil society organizations called for an immediate end to violence and urged all sides to exercise restraint amid rising tensions and reports of injuries during recent protests in Albania.

The signatories urged demonstrators to avoid attacks on individuals and damage to property. At the same time, they called on authorities to facilitate assemblies, ease tensions and prevent injuries.

They stressed that protecting the lives, health and dignity of protesters, police officers, journalists and bystanders must remain the absolute priority.

The organizations cited Article 47 of Albania’s Constitution, Article 11 of the European Convention on Human Rights and Article 21 of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, which protect the right to peaceful assembly.

They also stressed that any police use of force must be lawful, strictly necessary and proportionate. Authorities must prioritize peaceful means and avoid indiscriminate action against demonstrators because of isolated acts of violence.

The signatories condemned any unjustified or disproportionate use of force by police. They emphasized that maintaining public order does not justify violations of citizens’ physical integrity, dignity or fundamental rights.

They further called for immediate medical assistance for the injured, special protection for minors and respect for the rights of anyone detained. Any allegations of violence or unlawful use of force, they said, must be investigated promptly, independently and impartially.

Finally, the organizations urged political representatives and state leaders to avoid inflammatory rhetoric and create space for dialogue.

“Protect the life and dignity of every person. No life should be put at risk,” the statement concluded.

/a.c/