Opposition protest/ US Embassy in Tirana warns American citizens

2026-03-11 16:35:00, Aktualitet CNA

The United States Embassy in Tirana has distributed a notice to American citizens regarding the opposition protest expected to take place on Thursday, March 12, 2026.

According to the announcement, the demonstration is scheduled to begin at 10:00 a.m., with protesters expected to gather near the Parliament building on George W. Bush Street. Authorities warn that the protest could spread to surrounding areas and other government institutions.

The Embassy emphasizes that an increased police presence, possible road closures, and traffic disruptions are expected during the protest. For this reason, U.S. Embassy personnel are advised to avoid the protest area.

The announcement notes that although protests and large gatherings often begin peacefully, situations can change quickly. The protest can spread to surrounding blocks and government buildings, causing traffic diversions and roadblocks.

The embassy urges U.S. citizens to avoid the protest area, monitor local media, and follow the instructions of law enforcement authorities for the latest information.

Citizens are also advised to remain vigilant if they are in the city, be aware of their surroundings, limit distractions such as using phones or headphones in public, and always have an emergency plan or exit strategy.

The embassy also emphasizes the importance of maintaining a low profile and prioritizing personal safety during this period.

Announcement from the US Embassy in Tirana

A demonstration is scheduled for Thursday, March 12, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. Protesters plan to gather at the Capitol Building on George W. Bush Street. The protest may expand to surrounding areas and government buildings. Increased police presence, road closures, and traffic disruptions are expected in the hours leading up to and during the protests. U.S. Embassy personnel are advised to avoid the demonstration. Monitor local media and follow the instructions of local law enforcement authorities for the latest information.

While protests and large gatherings often begin peacefully, situations can change quickly. Protests can spread to nearby blocks and government buildings, potentially causing traffic disruptions, detours, and road closures. Our ongoing guidance is to avoid protest areas. If you are in the city, please remain vigilant and prioritize your personal safety. Strengthen your safety posture by practicing the following habits:

Actions to be taken:

American citizens are advised to avoid this event.

Be aware of your surroundings.

Limit distractions like phones or headphones in public.

Monitor local media

Always have an emergency plan or exit strategy

Keep a low profile....../ CNA