The Swiss Embassy in Albania has expressed concern over the recent outbreak of violence and damage to public and private property during demonstrations in the country. It called on all sides to exercise restraint, ease tensions and prioritize constructive dialogue.

In a statement posted on social media, the embassy stressed that the right to peaceful assembly is essential to a functioning democratic society. It also voiced concern over the destruction of public and private property during the demonstrations.

“Switzerland is concerned about the recent outbreak of violence and the destruction of public and private property during demonstrations in Albania. We call on all sides to exercise restraint, ease tensions and prioritize constructive dialogue. The right to peaceful assembly is fundamental to a democratic society,” the embassy said.

The Swiss Embassy also urged Albanian authorities to fully guarantee and protect the right to peaceful assembly and freedom of the media.

“We call on the authorities to fully guarantee and protect the right to peaceful assembly, as well as freedom of the media. We also call on security forces to act in accordance with international human rights standards,” the statement added.