On October 14, 2026, thousands of students protested in Tirana, Albania, marking the second day of demonstrations against the government. The protests began outside the Ministry of Education on October 13, with students demanding improved university conditions and better job prospects. During the protests, part of the education ministry's building was set on fire, and several government buildings, including the Prime Minister's office and the finance and interior ministries, were attacked.
Albania's Deputy Prime Minister Albana Koçiu urged for calm and self-restraint, stating, "Albania does not need to burn to change." Protesters, some wearing gas masks and balaclavas, were reported throwing rocks and firecrackers at the education ministry's gates. Riot police responded with tear gas and water cannons to disperse the crowd.
One protester, Enida Bimi, expressed that the protest was not only for students but for all Albanians, citing widespread anger towards the government due to corruption. Another protester, Arber Leshi, criticized the government as the most corrupt in the country's history. Education Minister Mirela Kumbaro acknowledged the right to protest but condemned the violence against public property.
Economy Minister Delina Ibrahimaj stated that setting fire to institutions is not a peaceful protest and endangers lives. Sixteen individuals were arrested for violent acts during the protests, according to Albania's state-run news agency.
Sali Berisha, leader of the opposition Democratic Party of Albania, praised the protesters, stating, "The streets and squares of Tirana have never seen lions like these students." These protests are part of a broader movement known as the Flamingo Revolution, which has been ongoing for several months, calling for Prime Minister Edi Rama's resignation. The protests were triggered by a luxury tourism project associated with Jared Kushner, which has fueled allegations of corruption and a lack of transparency from Rama's government.