Albania Plans to Establish 'Sovereign State' for Bektashi Muslims
In a groundbreaking announcement, Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama revealed plans to create a new micro-state for the Bektashi, a Sufi brotherhood of Islam, in Tirana. This initiative aims to establish a spiritual haven for Bektashi Muslims, who represent approximately 10% of Albania's population, and will be comparable in size to the Vatican, covering about ten hectares. The Bektashi Order has welcomed this proposal, highlighting its potential to foster inclusion, religious harmony, and dialogue in a world that often faces division.
The Bektashi community, the fourth largest religious group in Albania after Sunni Muslims, Orthodox Christians, and Catholics, has a rich history dating back to the 13th century in the Ottoman Empire. They are known for their mystical approach to Islam, which embraces tolerance and openness to other religions. Edi Rama emphasized the importance of transforming the Bektashi World Center into a sovereign state, which he described as a center of moderation and peaceful coexistence during his speech at the UN General Assembly.
The envisioned micro-state will have its own administration, passports, and borders, with citizenship restricted to members of the clergy and its governing council. Plans include the establishment of a museum dedicated to the Bektashi's history and a prayer room. Notably, the new state will allow alcohol consumption and will respect the personal clothing choices of women, reflecting the Bektashi's inclusive practices.
Despite the excitement surrounding this initiative, questions remain about the timeframe for its establishment and the international recognition it may receive. Legal experts are currently drafting the necessary documents to define the sovereign status of this new entity, which will require approval from Rama's Socialist Party. The Bektashi Order's aspirations for sovereignty could mark a significant milestone in promoting a tolerant interpretation of Islam in an increasingly polarized world.
