The Dutch Ambassador to Albania, Marleen Monster, has expressed concern over acts of violence during protests in Albania, stating that they have shocked and surprised the Dutch side.
Speaking to the media in Korça following a meeting with representatives of law enforcement institutions, which focused on media freedom, Monster commented on the European Commission’s report on Albania, addressing the fight against corruption, the strengthening of the rule of law, and public protests.
The diplomat praised Albania’s progress but emphasized that the report also identifies issues requiring further attention and efforts, particularly regarding media freedom and freedom of expression.
Referring to the protests, Monster stressed that demonstrating is a fundamental right in a democratic society, while describing the acts of violence as concerning and shocking.
Question: What is your opinion on the European Commission’s assessment of media freedom?
Ambassador: As you may have seen and heard regarding the progress report, it contains many positive assessments of the progress Albania has made. However, at the same time, it also highlights several issues that still require attention and further work.
Media freedom and freedom of expression are among these issues. This is one of the reasons we are here in Korça today, to explore how media freedom can be addressed through the judicial system. I am therefore very pleased to be in Korça to discuss these matters.
Question: What about the fight against corruption and the fact that students and citizens are protesting against it?
Ambassador: As you know, the Netherlands is one of the EU member states that follows an approach based on three main principles: strict, fair, and engaged.
One of the things we are trying to do is continue supporting Albania’s path toward EU membership through the opportunities available to us within this framework, which keeps us actively engaged in this process.
Question: What could Albania do better to strengthen the rule of law?
Ambassador: I believe Albania has already initiated a series of reforms, such as the justice reform, which has now entered a new phase: the consolidation phase.
I believe this is not only about what is written on paper, but also about its implementation and following through on the commitments made as part of these reforms.
Question: What is your message regarding the protests?
Ambassador: The protests have shown us that there is a certain level of tension within Albanian society, because otherwise people would not have taken to the streets to demonstrate.
Nevertheless, we maintain that protests are legitimate and represent a fundamental right. However, the violence is something that has shocked and surprised us.
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