The Interfaith Council of Albania has issued a public statement calling for peace, justice, responsibility and national dialogue. The appeal comes as the country faces protests and rising tensions.
Representatives of Albania’s official religious communities urged authorities to take citizens’ and students’ concerns seriously. They called for concrete and transparent responses that comply with the law.
“Peace is a shared responsibility. Justice is an obligation. Respect for every human being is the foundation that unites us,” the council said. It stressed that Albania’s future also depends on the values passed on to younger generations.
The council said Albania needs a society where justice inspires hope and peaceful coexistence becomes a lasting legacy. It emphasized that peace, justice and responsibility must go hand in hand. The statement also distinguished the right to protest from the use of violence.
“Peace does not mean remaining silent in the face of injustice. Justice cannot be built through violence, and authority cannot be exercised without responsibility,” the statement said.
Religious representatives highlighted the values shared by their traditions. These include protecting life, human dignity, compassion, justice and respect for others. They stressed that these principles apply regardless of people’s beliefs or views.
The council described peaceful protest as a fundamental democratic right. However, it rejected violence, property destruction and violations of others’ rights. It said grievances and protest objectives cannot justify such actions.
The statement also addressed the wider consequences of violence. Such acts affect people’s lives beyond the immediate material damage. “Damage to a family business directly affects a family’s livelihood. Damage to an educational institution affects the right to knowledge and safety,” the council said.
The council also called for respect for diplomatic missions and their symbols. It warned that attacks on them undermine mutual respect and international coexistence.
Religious representatives urged citizens to express their concerns peacefully. They called on protesters to avoid damaging property or endangering others. The council also urged all sides to act responsibly and prevent further escalation.
“At this moment, the country needs fewer accusations and more listening, fewer confrontations and greater responsibility, less division and more dialogue,” the statement said.
The council added that no side should treat another as an enemy. Instead, all parties should recognize that they belong to the same society. They share rights, duties and responsibilities.
The appeal addressed both citizens and institutions. The council urged authorities to listen to public concerns, provide answers and ensure justice.
“Albania’s future cannot be built on fear, destruction and division, but on dignity, mutual trust and the willingness to find peaceful solutions,” the statement concluded.
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