Albanian-American community figure Harry Bajraktari has called for greater U.S. engagement amid growing concerns about the treatment of student protesters and journalists in Albania. In a letter addressed to U.S. Ambassador Eric Wendt, Bajraktari raised concerns about the reported use of police force during the demonstrations.
His appeal comes as protests against Prime Minister Edi Rama‘s government continue in Albania, drawing attention from members of the Albanian diaspora in the United States.
According to an October 19 report published by Dielli – The Sun, Bajraktari expressed concern about the authorities’ response to student demonstrations and the treatment of journalists covering the unrest.
Albanian-American Community Raises Concerns
In his letter to Ambassador Wendt, Bajraktari called for students’ concerns to be heard rather than treating demonstrators as enemies.
He also raised questions about the treatment of journalists reporting on the protests, emphasizing the importance of protecting democratic rights.
His intervention adds an international dimension to the political crisis, with members of the Albanian-American community seeking to draw attention to developments in their country of origin.
Bajraktari indicated that the Albanian-American community would use its contacts in Washington to advocate for the protection of democratic rights in Albania.
The appeal reflects concerns among some members of the diaspora about how the authorities are responding to the demonstrations.
Protests in Albania Draw Attention Abroad
The protests have generated debate over the government’s handling of public demonstrations, particularly those involving students.
Reports of police intervention have prompted calls for accountability and greater respect for the right to peaceful assembly.
The Albanian Helsinki Committee has separately called for an independent investigation into allegations of police violence and the treatment of detainees, including minors.
The committee reported concerns about conditions in police facilities in Tirana following monitoring conducted on October 16.
These allegations require independent examination, and the reported incidents should not be treated as established findings before an investigation is completed.
Bajraktari’s letter demonstrates that the developments in Albania are also being closely followed by members of the Albanian community in the United States.
His announcement did not specify whether Ambassador Wendt had responded to the letter or whether any formal U.S. action would follow.
For now, the appeal represents a public call for American diplomatic attention and support for democratic rights amid the continuing protests.
