Special Representative of the O Parliamentary Assembly The SEU for Southeast Europe, Claude Haagen, from Luxembourg, has reacted to recent developments in Albania, stressing the importance of maintaining order, respecting fundamental freedoms and avoiding escalation of the situation.
In his statement, Haagen underlines that the right to peaceful gatherings and the freedom of citizens to express their positions are the fundamental pillars of a democratic society. At the same time, he stresses that protecting human life and public and private property is a fundamental responsibility of the law enforcement authorities.
I am deeply concerned about the recent developments accompanying protests in Albania, Haagen says, calling for accountability and respect of democratic principles on all sides.
O representative The SEU stresses that violence cannot replace dialogue and that there is no place in a democratic society.
According to him, any act of violence committed by individuals participating in the protests, as well as any excessive use of force by law authorities, should be investigated and treated in line with Albanian legislation and international human rights standards.
Haagen calls on political institutions and actors to act responsibly, condemn violence without equivocality and take immediate steps to reduce tensions.
Another issue focused on by O representative The SEU is journalists’ security and guaranteeing media freedom during reporting by the protests.
Haagen underlines that journalists should be able to report freely and safely to public events, without facing unwarranted orientation, harassment or obstacles.
A free and independent media is essential to transparency, accountability and informed public debate, especially during periods of political tensions.He points out.
According to him, authorities should ensure that journalists do their work without pressure and interference, while simultaneously respecting the citizens’ right to peaceful gatherings.
At the conclusion of the statement, Haagen addresses the government, the opposition, civil society organisations, students and citizens, inviting them to engage in a constructive dialogue for finding solutions in the interest of all Albanians.
He stresses that rule of law, respect for fundamental freedoms and dialogue should prevail over clashes.