ALBANIA'S SURPRISE ANNOUNCEMENT: A FUTURE BEKTASHI STATE IN TIRANA

Albania's Surprise Announcement: A Future Bektashi State in Tirana

In a shocking move, Albania's Prime Minister Edi Rama announced plans to create a sovereign state for the Bektashi Order, a Muslim Shiite Sufi order, within the capital city of Tirana ¹ ². This proposed microstate, modeled after the Vatican City, has sparked intense debate and opposition from various quarters.

*Background of the Bektashi Order*

The Bektashi Order, founded in the 13th century in Turkey, has its headquarters in Tirana since 1930 ¹. The order has a significant following in Albania and is known for its moderate and peaceful interpretation of Islam.

*Key Features of the Proposed State*

The proposed state, called the Sovereign State of the Bektashi Order, would be a city-state enclaved within Tirana, with a total land area of 27 acres ¹. The state would have its own government, laws, and institutions, with Baba Mondi, the current Bektashi Dedebaba, as its head ¹. Citizenship would be limited to Bektashi clerics and government officials.

*Reactions to the Proposal*

The announcement has been met with widespread criticism and concern. The Muslim Community of Albania has termed it a "dangerous precedent" for the country's future ¹. Many Albanians have expressed fears that the state would become an "Islamic country" and have raised economic concerns ³.

*Comparisons to the Vatican City*

Proponents of the proposal, including Prime Minister Rama, have drawn comparisons with the Vatican City, citing its sovereignty and recognition by the international community ¹. However, critics argue that the comparison does not withstand historical scrutiny ¹.

*Implications and Concerns*

The proposal raises several concerns, including:

- *Constitutional Amendments*: The creation of the state would require significant amendments to Albania's constitution ¹.

- *International Recognition*: The international community's response to the proposed state remains uncertain ¹.

- *Domestic Politics*: The proposal has sparked intense debate and opposition within Albania ³.

As the situation unfolds, it remains to be seen how the Albanian government and the international community will respond to this unprecedented proposal.