The Tirana Chamber of Commerce and Industry and eight business associations have condemned violence and property damage during recent protests in the capital. They have urged authorities to take concrete measures to protect public order and safety.

In a joint statement, the organizations expressed concern over attacks on public institutions, banks, shopping centers, buildings and business premises. They stressed that peaceful protest is a fundamental right that state institutions must protect. However, they said violence, arson and property destruction remain unacceptable.

“Citizens must be free to express their grievances and demands, while institutions have a responsibility to listen and respond through dialogue and concrete action,” the statement said.

The associations warned that property damage affects more than businesses. It also harms employees, customers, families and the wider local economy. They noted that every business represents investment, years of work and jobs that support families. Damage to public property, meanwhile, places an additional burden on taxpayers.

The organizations called on the State Police and relevant institutions to strengthen preventive measures, maintain an adequate presence in vulnerable areas and intervene promptly to prevent violence. At the same time, they stressed that police must act professionally, proportionately and in accordance with the law. Authorities must protect peaceful protesters, citizens, business employees and police officers alike.

The associations also called for the individual identification and prosecution of those responsible for violent acts. They stressed that authorities must not hold peaceful protesters collectively responsible for the actions of others.

Furthermore, they urged protest organizers and political forces to clearly distance themselves from violence, call for calm and help preserve the peaceful nature of demonstrations.

The organizations also called for authorities to document all damage and establish direct communication with affected businesses. This would help them report incidents, support investigations and pursue the relevant legal procedures. The Tirana Chamber of Commerce and Industry said it stands ready to work with authorities to document business concerns and strengthen protective measures.

“Our position is clear and independent of any political affiliation: we support freedom of expression, peaceful protest, dialogue and the rule of law. We unequivocally oppose violence and destruction, regardless of who carries them out,” the statement said.

The associations concluded that Tirana must remain a city where citizens can protest freely, institutions fulfil their duties and businesses operate safely. They stressed that protecting these rights is both a state responsibility and a shared interest of society.