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Albania introduced heavy fines on Wednesday for people present at demonstrations that turn violent, as the government seeks to manage daily protests demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Edi Rama in the capital Tirana.
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The fines, which can go as high as 500,000 leks (€5,500), are not limited to people directly engaged in violence and will be imposed on “anyone who chooses to remain in a crowd” that is carrying out acts of violence or looting in a public space, or that is “concealing their identity”.
The average monthly salary before tax in Albania stands at €930.
The new rules also allow police to temporarily restrict gatherings in certain areas, including near schools, healthcare facilities and government buildings, if they deem that there is a risk of violence.
They also introduce penalties for inciting violence online and provide compensation for small businesses damaged during protests.
Anti-government protests ongoing since May
Albania has seen months of anti-government protests, with demonstrations in recent days escalating into clashes between protesters and security forces on the streets of Tirana.
The leaderless movement began peacefully in May, with demonstrations against a luxury hotel project in a nature reserve linked to US President Donald Trump’s family.
By mid-October, the protests had expanded to include concerns over alleged corruption, shortcomings in the healthcare system and limited opportunities for young people in the country of 2.3 million people.
According to official estimates, protests since mid-October have caused more than €2 million in damage.
More than 350 people have been injured in clashes between protesters and police, who used tear gas and water cannon to disperse crowds.
Protest restrictions across Europe
On Sunday, Rama said he had drawn inspiration from a French bill passed by the upper house of parliament on Wednesday, which would hold protesters financially responsible for damage caused during demonstrations.
In France, the proposed legislation would require protesters to pay up to €10,000 for damage caused during demonstrations.
Meanwhile, in Italy, a new security decree introduces tougher penalties for violent protests, including prison sentences of four to 12 years for organising groups involved in violent demonstrations.
Additional sources • AFP
