Albania imposes $6,000 fine for demonstrators present at a protest that turns violent

Albania has introduced fines of more than $6,000 for demonstrators who participate in a protest that turns violent, even if they don’t personally commit violent acts, as the government tries to clamp down on the gatherings calling for the prime minister’s resignation.

The capital, Tirana, has been racked by months of anti-government protests that in recent days have deteriorated into pitched battles between the security forces and protesters.

The leaderless movement started peacefully in May, with rallies against a luxury hotel project in a nature reserve, backed by US president Donald Trump’s son-in-law Jared Kushner.

It morphed in mid-October into a wave of student-led protests against perceived corruption, shortcomings in the health system and the lack of prospects for young people in the country of 2.3 million people.

On Wednesday, prime minister Edi Rama’s government adopted legislative measures imposing fines of up to 500,000 leks (€5,500, US$6,130) for “anyone who chooses to remain in a crowd” that is carrying out acts of violence or looting in a public space, or “concealing their identity”.

The average salary before tax in Albania is €930 (US$1,026) per month.

Police were also given powers to temporarily restrict gatherings in certain areas, including near educational, healthcare and government institutions if there was a risk of violence. The measures also provide for sanctions against online incitement to violence and compensation for small businesses damaged during protests.

The measures take immediate effect but must be approved by parliament within 45 days to remain in force.

Rama said on Sunday that he was inspired by a French bill, passed by the parliament’s upper house on Wednesday, that would make protesters financially liable for damage caused during street demonstrations.

The prime minister has repeatedly blamed “foreign actors” for the violence and accused both Russia and Iran of driving online misinformation. Rama has also called for “dialogue”.