Anti-government demonstrations in Albania have continued for more than 100 consecutive days, developing into a sustained protest movement centred on concerns over environmental protection, corruption and government accountability. The “Flamingo Revolution” began in opposition to a planned tourism development in a protected coastal area linked to Jared Kushner, but has since broadened into a wider challenge to the government. As parliament reconvened on 8 September, police blocked protesters from reaching the building and clashes followed, with several demonstrators detained. The prolonged mobilisation has also been accompanied by wider civic-space concerns: media freedom organisations have documented police interference, obstruction and attacks affecting journalists covering the protests, as well as pressure and smear campaigns against activists, civil society and environmental defenders, while activists have reported coordinated restrictions and removal of protest-related social media accounts. The movement has therefore become not only a significant test of sustained civic mobilisation, but also of the space available for protest, critical reporting and online expression in Albania. Read more here.
Source: Balkan Insight