Moghrin and the opposition Hahn in Albania: The burning of mandates undermines country progress

Federica Moghrini and Johannes Hahn, the two top European foreign policy and enlargement officials, stress that burning mandates hinder the functioning of democracy in Albania and undermine the path towards the EU.

In view of protests in Albania today, we reaffirm the right of citizens to engage in peaceful demonstrations as an essential feature and a fundamental value of democracy, but we strongly denounce any rhetoric by political leaders calling for violence.

Moreover, the opposition's decision to give up their mandates seriously hinders the functioning of democracy in Albania. Parliament is the place where relevant reforms and developments should be discussed and taken forward, not boycotted.

These decisions and acts are counterproductive, go against democratic election of Albanian citizens, and undermine the progress the country has made on the path to the European Union.

The European Union expects all members of the Albanian Parliament to protect the ideals and principles of democracy, continue to serve in the Assembly, and take all necessary measures to avoid violent acts and incestary statements.

We also expect the government and opposition to engage in constructive discussions with the aim of overcoming Albania's current political situation to the benefit of its citizens