Sexual harassment of minors on the rise

In 2024, Albania recorded a significant increase in sexual crimes, with a 30% increase in the number of annual proceedings. According to data from the General Prosecutor's Office, 161 such cases were registered, up from 124 in 2023.

Year 2023 – 124 processed

Year 2024 – 161 processed  (+29.84%)

Year 2024 – 87 defendants  (+26.09%)

While the number of defendants increased to 87 from 69 a year earlier.

"Culturally we have an approach that blames the victim. The victim is never to blame. In many cases, the victims are many times younger, defenseless, and are mostly in lonely situations..." , says Eris Dhamo, a sociologist.

"Regarding the profile of the defendants, 94% are adult males and 6% are minors; in terms of social status, the majority are unemployed, with 9 years of education and residing in the city," adds the sociologist.

In the group of criminal offenses 'sexual crimes', sexual harassment occupies the largest share.

"We are a society in transition and frustrated that produces increased criminality,"  says Dhamo.

In addition to the need for greater attention to sex education in schools, sociology calls for civic response.

"We absolutely must be attentive. In all cases when we are disturbed by a word, a gesture...address it to other members of the community..." , sociology advises.

64 people have been convicted of sexual crimes this year, and in all cases, prison sentences have been given. The most cases of sexual harassment have been registered in Tirana, Korça and Fier./ Tv Klan