Story perspectives

Albanian Leader Calls Youth-Led Protests a Civic Revolt

1/26/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Sali Berisha, leader of the Democratic Party of Albania, says protests against Prime Minister Edi Rama amount to a civic revolt against corruption.
He notes unprecedented youth participation and calls the event a "protest of conscience."
Berisha condemns police violence, alleging expired tear gas was used against peaceful demonstrators, including children.
He demands the release of detained protesters and says he will continue mobilizing citizens until Rama's government falls.

History

Historical Context

The 1997 civil uprising in Albania erupted after the collapse of pyramid schemes, which had ensnared two-thirds of the population, leading to losses of approximately $1.2 billion. The unrest resulted in over 2,000 deaths and the fall of President Sali Berisha's government. Today, protests against Prime Minister Edi Rama reflect ongoing struggles for accountability and reform in Albanian governance, particularly among youth.

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Story summary

Sali Berisha, leader of the Democratic Party of Albania, says protests against Prime Minister Edi Rama amount to a civic revolt against corruption.
He notes unprecedented youth participation and calls the event a "protest of conscience."
Berisha condemns police violence, alleging expired tear gas was used against peaceful demonstrators, including children.
He demands the release of detained protesters and says he will continue mobilizing citizens until Rama's government falls.

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