By Lutfi Dervishi
The same scenario unfolds: the opposition announces the date and time for civil disobedience. Five main traffic junctions in Tirana are blocked for three hours. The objective: a technical government. The result? Roadblocks caused by rain and the perpetual traffic congestion, minor clashes with the police, frustrated drivers, and fiery media headlines.
Civil disobedience, when well-organized and supported by broad public opinion, has served as a powerful mechanism for change over the past three decades. However, in this case, it seems the opposition is not achieving its goals, likely because there is no visible popular mobilization. Look at the participation in protests these days in Belgrade or Georgia and draw comparisons.
One of the biggest debates here for a long time has been about participation in protests. The call was for participation from across Albania, but blocking roads with a small number of protesters does not send a message of strength.
Traffic is already a headache for each of the 800,000 people living in Tirana—especially during the end-of-year holiday season. Instead of protesting against roadblocks, by blocking the roads themselves, the opposition risks alienating potential allies, turning them into opponents. Repeating protests without bringing anything new diminishes their significance.
On the other hand, police actions add theatricality to the event. The lack of significant clashes emphasizes the formal aspect of the protest. Both sides appear to be simply “doing their duty.” Civil disobedience means consciously breaking the law and facing the consequences. Thus, when opposition leaders call on the police to “do their duty,” they must understand that this implies having the courage to confront the law.
Instead of blocking roads that are practically already blocked, the opposition could organize more visible and effective protests in public spaces. They could block ministry offices, stage creative protests, marches, or symbolic installations that capture attention without alienating—and most importantly, without angering—the public.
Successful civil disobedience movements often include a wide range of actors: students, workers, intellectuals, artists, and others. Without making its cause more inclusive and relatable, the opposition may increase the number of protests but not the number of protesters.
For over 11 years, citizens have seen what the government has to offer. Now is the time for the opposition to present an alternative. This means creating the broadest possible coalition, avoiding internal conflicts, and resonating with people’s real concerns.
Protests are a vital part of any democracy, but their effectiveness depends on aligning with public sentiment.
The path to change does not run through roadblocks but through ideas, unity, and a clear, tangible vision.
The opposition still has time to decide whether it wants to be remembered for its roadblocks or for the paths it opens toward a better life for Albanians.
