Punjab Newsline | Paris/Rome
Protests against rising inflation, soaring fuel prices, the housing crisis and deteriorating public services are intensifying across several European countries, with demonstrations, strikes and security restrictions reported in Albania, Italy and France.
In Albania’s capital, Tirana, anti-government protests continued for the eighth consecutive day on Tuesday, prompting police to use tear gas and water cannons to disperse demonstrators
Meanwhile, Italy approved stricter security measures following weekend violence, while a truckers’ strike in the country’s south has begun affecting supplies at supermarkets and petrol stations. In France, several cities have extended curfews following incidents of violence and looting over the weekend.
Albania Protests Enter Eighth Day
Police in Tirana used tear gas and water cannons on Tuesday as clashes with anti-government demonstrators continued for the eighth day.
High school and university students have joined the protests, demanding lower tuition fees, increased government investment in education and action against corruption in the education system. Demonstrators are also calling for the resignation of Socialist Prime Minister Edi Rama as part of the wider anti-government movement.
Over the past several days, protesters have reportedly thrown stones, incendiary bottles, flares and firecrackers at police. Authorities have responded with batons, tear gas and water cannons, resulting in repeated clashes in central Tirana.
The unrest has intensified following months of demonstrations, including protests organised by the so-called Flamingo movement against a major luxury tourism project on Albania’s southern coast. The project has reportedly been linked to an investment firm founded by Jared Kushner, the son-in-law of US President Donald Trump.
Italy Approves Tougher Security Laws
Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni’s government on Tuesday approved a series of stricter security measures following violent incidents in several northern Italian cities over the weekend.
The measures include a new offence related to violent activities during demonstrations, tougher penalties for rioting and provisions that could hold parents financially responsible for minors involved in vandalism or looting.
The decision follows incidents in Milan, the country’s financial hub, where groups of young people reportedly smashed shop windows, looted stores and attacked police officers.
The government’s move comes amid growing concerns over public disorder and mounting economic discontent.
France Extends Curfews After Weekend Violence
Several French cities have extended curfews following weekend incidents involving violence, vandalism and looting.
In Paris, local authorities imposed restrictions for a second consecutive night, preventing people from moving around streets or remaining in public spaces during specified hours.
The measures are aimed at preventing further disturbances and maintaining public order following the weekend unrest.
Truckers’ Strike Disrupts Supplies in Southern Italy
Rising fuel prices have triggered another wave of protests in Italy, with a week-long truckers’ strike in Naples disrupting the movement of essential goods.
Some supermarket shelves and petrol stations have begun experiencing shortages as supply chains come under pressure.
According to an Associated Press report, protesters on Monday halted the loading and unloading of fresh food and other goods at supermarket distribution warehouses near Naples, affecting deliveries to retailers.
The disruption has raised concerns over the availability of essential supplies if the strike continues.
Housing Crisis Fuels Discontent Across Europe
Although the protests in Albania, Italy and France have different local triggers, rising living costs, expensive fuel, housing shortages and dissatisfaction with public services have emerged as common concerns.
In Spain and Portugal, protesters have also set up tent camps to draw attention to soaring housing costs and the difficulties faced by residents seeking affordable accommodation.
Greece was also preparing for rallies and demonstrations scheduled for Tuesday evening and Wednesday, reflecting the broader wave of public discontent spreading across parts of Europe.
