Rama unveils package against urban violence: fines of up to 500,000 lek even for those who stay in the crowd

Prime Minister Edi Rama on Sunday presented a package of six legal instruments against what he called urban violence and anarchy, a day after the Oct. 24 protest in Tirana during which police and public and private institutions were attacked. The principle behind the package, he said, is simple: peaceful protest is protected, violence is punished and the damage is paid for by whoever causes it.

Compensation for businesses, fines for the crowd

Businesses with annual turnover of up to 140,000 euros will be compensated for up to 100% of damage from looting, arson or vandalism during protests, and larger businesses for at least 70%. Their share will be paid by people the court deems lawfully arrested, and in the case of minors by their parents or guardians. Anyone who knowingly remains in a crowd where violence is taking place and does not leave after a police warning could be fined up to 500,000 lek. Journalists, doctors, observers, officials on duty and passersby are exempt.

Police will be able to restrict gatherings for up to 72 hours within a perimeter around schools, health and state institutions, places of worship and monuments when there is a real and imminent risk of violence. Taking part in unauthorized gatherings will carry fines of 10,000 to 100,000 lek per person, and blocking traffic 5,000 lek.

A register of offenders and Penal Code changes

A government decision will create an electronic register, run by the State Police, of people facing proceedings for crimes against public order and security; those trying to evade justice could be barred from leaving the country. Pre-university teachers will not be allowed to encourage students under 18 to take part in gatherings, on pain of suspension or dismissal. The proposed Penal Code changes include up to two years in prison for carrying weapons or dangerous objects at gatherings and up to six months for concealing one's face when violence occurs.

Rama said the measures were drafted with European experts and Italian and French partners, comply with Article 47 of the Constitution and Article 11 of the European Convention on Human Rights, and that any restrictions would be temporary and subject to court review. He also said the 2027 draft budget will be presented in the first days of next week.