Skip to main content
Archived edition · September 14, 2026 Today's news →

What's happening in Europe?

Flag of Albania

Albania

News summary for

Go to today →

Protests 🚔

School Year Launch Paralyzes Tirana, Protests Lead to New Arrests

Albania's new school year commenced today, immediately leading to widespread traffic gridlock in Tirana, particularly affecting major arteries like the Grand Ring Road. This event has also brought renewed attention to the country's demographic challenges, with former Prime Minister Sali Berisha highlighting a significant decrease in student enrollment.

Meanwhile, anti-government protests continued, with new gatherings at Zogu i Zi Square resulting in several detentions. These new arrests come as a court declared the arrests of 14 previous protesters near the Prime Ministry unlawful, raising questions about police actions.

In other developments, the ongoing corruption probe involving former Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Infrastructure and Energy Belinda Balluku revealed new details about an alleged hidden property. Prime Minister Edi Rama also publicly addressed a judge, expressing frustration over restrictions on state budget funds.

Top stories

New School Year Begins Amidst Traffic Chaos and Demographic Concerns

The start of Albania's new academic year has caused significant traffic congestion in Tirana, impacting over 340,000 students nationwide. This has also fueled discussions about a deep demographic crisis, with a notable decline in student numbers, while government claims of educational success are being critically examined.

News sources