Albania is set to establish a sovereign microstate for the Bektashi Order, a Sufi Muslim sect, in its capital, Tirana, as announced by Prime Minister Edi Rama during his speech at the United Nations General Assembly on September 22. The ambitious plan aims to promote religious coexistence both domestically and internationally.
Concept and Structure of the Microstate
The proposed Bektashi microstate will cover a 10-hectare area—approximately one-quarter the size of Vatican City. It will have its own administration, passports, and borders, mirroring the governance structure of the Vatican. The new state will adhere to the religious customs of the Bektashi Order, which originated in 13th-century Turkey and represents a Shiite Sufi tradition.
While specific details regarding the granting of sovereignty are still pending, leaders within the Bektashi community have welcomed the initiative enthusiastically. This project signifies a broader Albanian commitment to fostering peaceful coexistence among different religions.
Albania’s Commitment to Religious Tolerance
In his address, Prime Minister Rama highlighted Albania’s historical efforts to promote religious tolerance, citing instances from World War II, including the nation’s protection of Jewish refugees during the Holocaust, and its recent actions in providing shelter to Afghans fleeing the Taliban’s resurgence. Rama asserted that Albania, despite its small size, has been a beacon of humanitarianism and coexistence.
“While Albania may be a small country, it has given the world good examples, which has been taken to protect our common humanity,” Rama stated. He emphasized that Albania’s actions, such as sheltering thousands of Afghans, reflect its commitment to protecting the vulnerable.
The Bektashi Order in Albania
The Bektashi Order has deep historical roots in Albania, gaining prominence in the 15th century through its influence on the Ottoman Janissary Corps. After being banned in Turkey during the secular reforms of Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, many Bektashi followers relocated to Albania, where the order has continued to thrive. Approximately 10% of Albania’s Muslim population identifies with the Bektashi Order, which is recognized for its progressive values—such as allowing alcohol consumption and promoting women’s freedom in dress.
Albania itself has a diverse religious landscape, with nearly half of its population identifying as Muslim, along with significant Catholic and Orthodox Christian communities. The creation of the Bektashi microstate aligns with Albania’s tradition of religious tolerance, which is a cornerstone of its national identity.
A New Era for the Bektashi Community
Prime Minister Rama’s vision includes transforming Tirana into the spiritual and administrative hub for the Bektashi Order, while ensuring that the microstate operates independently of the Albanian government. Baba Mondi, the head of the Bektashi Order, is expected to oversee both the religious and administrative functions of the new state. Citizenship will be limited to senior religious figures, ensuring a focused leadership structure within the microstate.
The establishment of this unique entity is not only a significant development for the Bektashi Order but also represents Albania’s ongoing commitment to a harmonious coexistence of diverse faiths, enhancing its international reputation as a promoter of peace and tolerance.
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