Albanian PM Rama signs decree imposing fines of $6,130 on protesters staying in violent crowds

Albania's government implemented a new legislative package on Wednesday that fines individuals up to 500,000 leks, or $6,130, for remaining in public crowds that are committing violence or looting. The decree was signed by Prime Minister Edi Rama and applies even to those who do not personally commit violent acts but choose to stay in the group.

The financial penalty is steep relative to local income levels. The average pre-tax monthly salary in Albania is 930 euros, or $1,026. Under the new rules, a single fine can exceed half a year's gross income for the average worker. The legislation also targets those who conceal their identity during these gatherings.

Rama stated on Sunday that he modeled the measure after a French bill that holds protesters financially liable for damage caused during street demonstrations. The upper house of the French parliament passed that specific bill on Wednesday. The Albanian prime minister has previously attributed the unrest to foreign actors, specifically naming Russia and Iran as drivers of online misinformation.

The decree grants police new powers to temporarily restrict gatherings in areas deemed at risk for violence. These restrictions can be enforced near educational institutions, healthcare facilities, and government buildings. The legislative package also includes sanctions for online incitement to violence and establishes a fund for compensating small businesses that suffer damage during protests.

The measures took effect immediately upon adoption. However, the Albanian parliament must formally approve the legislation within 45 days for it to remain in force. The government introduced these rules as the capital, Tirana, has seen months of anti-government demonstrations that recently escalated into pitched battles between security forces and demonstrators.

The current wave of protests began in May as peaceful rallies against a luxury hotel project in a nature reserve. That project is backed by Jared Kushner, son-in-law of US President Donald Trump. By mid-October, the movement shifted focus to student-led demonstrations demanding the prime minister's resignation, citing corruption, health system failures, and a lack of economic prospects for the country's 2.3 million residents.

The government aims to curb gatherings that demand Rama's departure. The new fines and police powers represent a shift toward stricter financial and legal penalties for participants in large-scale public protests.