Protests in Albania 2026: what is happening and how to stay safe
Protests in Tirana and other Albanian cities: causes, where the clashes are, whether it is safe for Ukrainians, how to act near rallies, emergency numbers.
Updated
- Started
- 31 May 2026
- Escalation
- 13–15 October
- Epicentre
- Central Tirana
- Emergency services
- 112
What is happening
Anti-government protests have been going on in Tirana since 31 May 2026. From 12–13 October, university and school students joined in large numbers, and some of the rallies turned into clashes with the police.
- Causes. The movement began over a plan for a luxury resort on the protected Zvërnec coast near Vlorë (it is called the "flamingo revolution", after the flamingos of the Narta lagoon). Students added their own demands: tuition fees, conditions at universities and jobs after graduation. Protesters are demanding the resignation of Prime Minister Edi Rama.
- On 13–14 October protesters broke into the Ministry of Education building and set it on fire, and damaged government buildings, banks, shop windows, bus stops and traffic lights. Police used tear gas and water cannon.
- Arrests and injuries. According to the police, 65 people were detained on 14 October. Tirana hospitals admitted 89 people that day, 61 of them police officers.
- On 15 October the protests continued for the third day in a row. The Prime Minister refused to resign and offered the students dialogue; a session of parliament was cancelled.
Where it is tense
The hotspot is central Tirana. In other cities there have mostly been peaceful student marches and class boycotts.
- Tirana: Skanderbeg Square, Dëshmorët e Kombit Boulevard, the buildings of parliament, the government and the ministries, including the Ministry of Education. This is where the clashes, tear gas and water cannon were.
- Other cities: university and school students boycotted classes and took to the streets in Shkodër, Korçë and Durrës; there were also boycotts in Vlorë and Divjakë. No clashes in these cities had been reported as of 15 October.
- The coast (Sarandë, Ksamil, Himarë) has not been mentioned in the news, but that is no guarantee — follow local news.
How to stay safe
- Keep away from rallies and crowds, even peaceful ones: the situation can change within minutes. Avoid central Tirana if a crowd is gathering there.
- Do not film clashes up close and do not approach police cordons.
- If tear gas is used nearby: move away upwind, do not rub your eyes, rinse them with clean water and change your clothes. With children or people with asthma, leave the area immediately.
- Carry your passport or a copy, and your residence permit card if you have one: police may check documents.
- Do not take part in protests. Foreigners are safer staying away from any demonstrations — being detained could complicate your status in Albania.
- Allow extra time for trips to Tirana (airport, offices, the embassy): streets in the centre may be closed.
- Agree with your family how you will keep in touch, and let them know where you are if you go to central Tirana.
Who to contact
- 112 — the single emergency number, 129 — police, 127 — ambulance.
- Embassy of Ukraine in Albania — address, phone numbers and the hotline for life-threatening situations are in the guide "Embassy and consulate of Ukraine in Albania".
- As of 15 October 2026, Ukraine's Ministry of Foreign Affairs has not issued any official advice on Albania because of the protests. Follow the embassy page and the Diia app (Ukraine's state services app).
Sources
FAQ
Is it safe to travel to Albania right now?
As of 15 October 2026, clashes are taking place mainly in central Tirana near government buildings. The country as a whole is functioning normally, but you should avoid rallies and crowds and follow the news. There are no official travel bans for Ukrainians.
Why are there protests in Albania?
The movement began in May 2026 against a resort project on the protected Zvërnec coast near Vlorë. In October, students joined it with demands about tuition costs and study conditions and the resignation of Prime Minister Edi Rama.
Are there protests in Durrës, Vlorë or Sarandë?
In Durrës, Shkodër and Korçë students held marches and boycotted classes; in Vlorë there were boycotts. No clashes outside Tirana had been reported as of 15 October. The news has not reported protests in Sarandë.
What should I do if tear gas is sprayed nearby?
Move away upwind, do not rub your eyes, rinse your eyes and face with clean water and change your clothes. With children or people with asthma, leave the area immediately. If needed, call 112 or 127.
Can foreigners take part in the protests?
It is safer to stay away from any demonstrations: being detained during unrest could complicate your status in Albania.
Something changed or spotted a mistake?
Prices, timetables and addresses in Albania change — let us know and we’ll update.