Student protesters attack government buildings in Tirana

Student protesters clash with riot police in Tirana, Albania, as anti-government demonstrations turn violent.

The full report

Thousands of students have taken to the streets in Tirana, Albania's capital, to protest against the government. The demonstration began outside the ministry of education on Tuesday, with students calling for better university conditions and job prospects.

On Wednesday, part of the education ministry's building was set on fire, and the prime minister's office, finance and interior ministry, and several surrounding businesses were attacked. Riot police have clashed with the protesters, using tear gas and water cannons to disperse them.

Albania's Deputy Prime Minister Albana Koçiu has called for 'calmness, self-restraint and maturity' and said 'Albania does not need to burn to change'. However, officials have criticised the behaviour of some protesters, with Economy Minister Delina Ibrahimaj stating that setting fire to an institution is not a peaceful protest.

Protesters have expressed their anger at the government, with one demonstrator, Enida Bimi, stating that the protest is not just for the students, but 'for all the people of Albania'. Another protester, Arber Leshi, said people are angry at 'the most corrupt government our country has ever seen'.

Education Minister Mirela Kumbaro has expressed her respect for the right to protest, but stated that 'civic student protest and violence against public buildings and property are two different things'.