While many people around the world celebrate International Women’s Day on March 8, for many women in Tirana the day has become a moment not only for celebration but also for protest and demands for greater rights and safety.

Throughout the past year, dozens of cases have been reported involving women and girls who have been victims of blackmail, violence, and abuse by men in their lives. This troubling reality has turned the day into a call for stronger action from authorities.

On Sunday, dozens of women and girls gathered in the Albanian capital for a march, raising their voices in support of women’s rights. Carrying banners and chanting for justice, the protesters called on institutions to take stronger measures to protect women.

Participants urged authorities to strengthen laws and enforcement against domestic violence, which many women and girls continue to experience within their families—from husbands, partners, fathers, or brothers.

The march highlighted the dual meaning of the day for many participants: a time to recognize women’s achievements while also drawing attention to the ongoing struggle for safety, equality, and justice.