IDU Statement on the Demolition of the National Theatre in Tirana, Albania

The International Democrat Union wishes to express its grave concerns regarding recent developments in Albania and condemns the demolition of the National Theatre in Tirana as an undemocratic act of arbitrary government authority.

The action on Sunday morning, amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, is another example of the ruthlessness of the Rama Government, contradicting the rule of law and disrespecting the conservation of cultural heritage.

This is not the first time that the actions of the Socialist Government of Albania have been for the benefit of only a few while harming civil society. Along with our regional organizations, the European Peoples Party and European Conservatives and Reformists Party, the IDU condemns this clear violation of the rights of the citizens in Tirana. The IDU demands that Albanian security forces refrain from violence and arbitrary arrests.

The demolition of the National Theatre in Tirana is another example of the ongoing degeneration of democracy under Prime Minister Rama. The IDU asks all its members to support the protest against this action and to support the restoration of  freedom and democracy in Albania.