Businesses: Property should be protected, police should guarantee security

Nine business associations have today expressed concern about acts of violence and damage to public and private property during protests in the capital, demanding concrete measures from institutions to guarantee security and protect economic activity.

In a joint press statement, business representatives condemn the attacks on public institutions, banks, shopping malls and other business facilities, emphasizing that political tensions should not harm businesses, their employees and investments.

According to the statement, the right to protest peacefully is a fundamental right that must be respected and guaranteed by state institutions. However, no cause or political conflict can justify violence, arson and vandalism.

"Businesses, their employees and their properties cannot become targets of political tensions. Behind every enterprise are investments, years of work, jobs and families that provide income from it," the statement said.

Business representatives emphasize that damage to a bank, store, shopping center or business building affects not only the owners, but also employees, customers and the city's economy. Meanwhile, the destruction of public institutions and property constitutes a cost that weighs on all taxpayers.

The Chamber of Commerce and associations call on the State Police and responsible institutions to take preventive measures, guarantee adequate police presence in endangered areas and intervene in time to avoid acts of violence.

At the same time, police actions are required to be professional, proportionate and in accordance with the law, ensuring the safety of peaceful protesters, citizens and business employees.

According to them, the perpetrators of violent acts should be identified and held individually responsible, without blaming the citizens who exercise their right to protest collectively.

Another call is addressed to the organizers of the protests and political forces, who are asked to clearly distance themselves from violence, promote calm and contribute to avoiding the escalation of tensions.

The associations also demand full documentation of damages and the establishment of direct communication between the authorities and affected businesses, to enable denunciation and the following of relevant procedures.

The Tirana Chamber of Commerce and Industry expresses its willingness to cooperate with institutions in identifying the concerns of businesses and strengthening protective measures.

The declaration is supported by the Albanian Agribusiness Council, Albanian Manufacturing, Builders Association, Albanian Tourism Association, Dairy Processing Industry Association, Albanian Food Industry Association, Medicinal Plants Association and the Association of Professional Business and Crafts Women.

The organizations emphasize that their stance is independent of any political affiliation and aims to simultaneously protect the right to peaceful protest, public order, and the security of economic activity./monitor