OSCE human rights office calls for peaceful protests and independent investigations
The OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) expressed concern over reports of violence during student and high school protests in Albania. It called for immediate and independent investigations into every reported case of unlawful use of force. In a statement published on X, ODIHR urged all sides …
Assembly deputy Speaker, Kushi discusses parliamentary reform with international delegation
Assembly of Albania Deputy Speaker Evis Kushi and Secretary General Genci Gjonçaj met a delegation from the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance, led by Kevin Casas Zamora. The talks focused on continuing cooperation under the European Union-funded STEP-EU project. The initiative aims to strengthen the Assembly’s legislative, oversight …
Bank of Albania reports higher loan demand and easier terms for small and medium-sized businesses
Demand for loans from businesses and individuals increased in the third quarter of 2026. Banks expect this trend to continue in the final quarter, according to the Bank of Albania’s lending survey. Businesses increased borrowing across all size categories for investment and liquidity needs. Higher investment needs, inventory financing and …
Albania and Turkey conduct joint naval exercise in Vlora Bay
As part of NATO’s “Neptune Strike-26” exercise, the Albanian and Turkish Naval Forces conducted a joint military exercise in Vlora Bay and at the Pashaliman Naval Base. The exercise involved the Albanian patrol vessel “Oriku” P-132 and its boarding team, alongside the Turkish naval vessels TCG Anadolu and TCG Gaziantep. …
Supreme Court postpones hearings after court files damaged during protests in Tirana
Albania’s Supreme Court has announced the postponement of court hearings, except for urgent cases, following property damage and damage to judicial files caused by a fire during the protests on October 17. In a public statement issued on October 20, the court said that damage to its premises and infrastructure …
ODIHR on Protests in Albania: Concern Over Violence, Calls for Peace
The OSCE Office for Democratic Institutions and Human Rights (ODIHR) has expressed concern over reports of violence during protests in Albania, as demonstrations in Tirana enter their eighth consecutive day. In a public statement, ODIHR called on all parties to maintain peace, stressing that law enforcement authorities must refrain from …
UN Security Council to discuss key issues concerning Kosovo today: What does the new UN report say?
The United Nations Security Council will hold its next meeting on the situation in Kosovo today, with discussions expected to focus on political developments, the security situation, and the dialogue between Kosovo and Serbia. The meeting is scheduled to begin at 3:00 p.m. New York time, corresponding to 9:00 p.m. …
PM Rama Responds After Students Reject Dialogue: “I Am Available”
Prime Minister Edi Rama has responded after lecturers and intellectuals who joined the anti-government protests rejected dialogue, reiterating that he is ready to hold talks with anyone willing to engage in discussions. In a video posted on social media, filmed inside the Prime Minister’s Office, Rama highlighted the chants of …
Begaj Meets US Ambassador in Tirana and Several EU Ambassadors: Reason for Meetings Revealed
Albanian President Bajram Begaj met with US Ambassador to Tirana Eric Wendt on Tuesday. The meeting comes at a time when Albania is facing a series of protests, accompanied by clashes between demonstrators and the State Police. The head of state holds regular meetings with representatives of the diplomatic corps …
Albania’s Student Revolt Broadens as Trust in Dialogue Erodes
Lecturers, writers and parents joining the demonstrations deepen the political challenge facing Prime Minister Edi Rama, as allegations of police brutality fuel demands for his resignation. Tirana Times, October 20, 2026 – The participation of university lecturers, writers, artists and parents in Albania’s student protests marks a significant widening of …