Albania amends Greek identity legislation

by | Feb 2, 2025 | Greek Diaspora

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A landmark move by Albania to institutionalize self-identification rights for the Greek minority has paved the way for strengthened ties with Greece and potential resolution of long-standing disputes, including property claims.

The recent adoption of enforcement laws from 2017 ensures that ethnic Greeks, regardless of residence, can freely declare their ethnic identity. For the first time, self-identification does not require official documentation and must be recognized within 30 days, significantly reducing bureaucratic barriers.

These developments come amid Albania’s EU accession negotiations, with both Athens and Brussels playing crucial roles. Greece, which had previously expressed concerns over rights violations, withdrew its objections to Albania’s EU progress, citing improved measures.

The discussions, held primarily in Brussels, featured high-level Greek and Albanian officials, including close advisers of Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama. Collaborative drafts addressed additional measures like the minority’s linguistic rights, extending their scope to regions with historical Greek presence.

Tensions had flared in recent years, particularly following the imprisonment of ethnic Greek politician Fredi Beleri in Albania. Such incidents underscored the fragile nature of bilateral relations and the potential implications for Albania’s European aspirations.

A positive shift in Greek-Albanian dynamics raises hopes for further cooperation on contentious issues, such as property disputes and the acknowledgment of Albanian pensions for Greeks. Analysts note that Albania’s May elections may influence progress. Prime Minister Rama has leveraged EU integration as a key campaign pillar, emphasizing cooperation with Greece as vital to achieving European benchmarks.

With talks progressing, Athens and Tirana anticipate addressing boundary demarcations, historical grievances, and the preservation of Greek war cemeteries in Albania. These developments highlight an opportunity for lasting bilateral improvements, contingent upon sustained diplomatic engagement.

 

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