Albania will protect the constitutional right to protest while taking firm, lawful measures to prevent violence and maintain public order, Interior Minister Ervin Demo said on Thursday.
Speaking from San Patrignano, Italy, where he is attending an international high-level meeting on addiction prevention and rehabilitation, Demo discussed public safety with European counterparts, including representatives from Italy and France.
The talks focused on practical measures to protect citizens, public institutions and public and private property. In addition, the participants exchanged experiences and best practices from EU countries to strengthen public security.
Demo said recent developments in Albania had highlighted the need for stronger measures to prevent violence and protect citizens and property. He added that the government was examining Italy’s experience, along with approaches used by other EU member states, to improve Albania’s legal framework and institutional capacity.
However, the minister stressed that the right to protest does not include the right to attack police officers or damage public and private property.
“We will guarantee the freedom to protest while taking all necessary measures, in accordance with the law, to ensure public order and the safety of every citizen throughout Albania,” Demo said.
He added that protecting the right to protest and safeguarding public security must go hand in hand. Finally, he said discussions with European partners had focused on practical steps and closer institutional cooperation to improve public safety across the country.
/a.c/
The post Albania Vows to Protect Right to Protest While Taking Measures Against Violence, Interior Minister Says appeared first on RTSH.
