Albania’s government is set to grant sovereignty to the Tirana-based Bektashi Muslims, an Islamic Sufi order, in the hope of promoting a moderate form of Islam. If plans are seen through, the “Sovereign State of the Bektashi Order” would become the smallest state in the world, just a quarter of the size of Vatican City.
Edmond Brahimaj, the Muslim cleric preparing to lead the 27-acre microstate, told The New York Times that the enclave will allow alcohol, permit women to wear what they want and impose no lifestyle rules. Other sources have described the planned development as a “liberal Muslim microstate.”
The Bektashi were founded in the 13th century. Brahimaj, its current leader, says “God does not forbid anything,” and has indicated that “all decisions [relating to the microstate] will be made with love and kindness.”
Albanian Socialist Party prime minister Edi Rama—who has this year faced fury from protesters over his alleged silencing of political opponents—is clear about his hope that the microstate will increase tolerance of Muslims across Europe.
We should take care of this treasure, which is religious tolerance and which we should never take for granted.
Aleksander Pavli, a writer from Tirana, has, however, suggested that the move is actually intended to improve Albania’s chances of being granted membership of the European Union.
The Bektashi faith does not force its followers to observe basic Islamic traditions, so is seen as heretical by other, more conservative branches of the religion. The NYT highlights that this means the state is highly unlikely to be recognised by Iran.
Brahimaj hopes that Western states will act differently and recognise his state’s sovereignty. International lawyers are currently working on defining the new state’s official status inside Albania.
