The Bektashi World Headquarters in Tirana has officially welcomed the initiative to establish the Bektashi Order as a fully sovereign entity. The Order described this step as historic, marking a new era for global religious tolerance and peace promotion.

Why is it important

Prime Minister Edi Rama, who announced the idea, described the proposed Bektashi state as a step to promote religious harmony—a value for which Albania is internationally recognized. If realized, it would be the world’s smallest and newest state.

The debate

Rama’s proposal, also presented at the UN General Assembly, has sparked debate within Albania, drawing both support and criticism. The Albanian Constitution does not currently allow for ceding territory to another state, but Rama has assured that experts are working to ensure the proposal’s constitutionality and parliamentary approval.

What they’re saying

In its official statement, the Bektashi World Headquarters said:

“The Bektashi Order, known for its message of peace, tolerance, and religious harmony, will gain sovereignty similar to that of the Vatican, allowing it to autonomously govern its religious and administrative affairs. This move will strengthen the Order’s role in fostering interfaith dialogue and countering the rise of violent extremism globally. Sovereignty will ensure the protection and independence of the Bektashi Order’s religious practices and promote these values internationally.”

The order’s spiritual leader, Baba Mondi (Father Mondi), emphasized that the initiative is not about seeking political power.

“This initiative is not about self-determination; we are not seeking influence or political power. Instead, we seek the freedom to continue our centuries-old tradition of spiritual moderation and religious inclusiveness,” said Baba Mondi.

Governance details

As a spiritual entity, citizenship in the new sovereign state would be limited to clergy members and those involved in its administration. The state would be led by the Bektashi Order’s spiritual leadership, including the Dedebaba (Grandfather Chief) and a council overseeing religious and administrative functions. The Bektashis insist that the new state would focus solely on spiritual leadership without broader ambitions.

Context:

In an interview with NYT, Prime Minister Rama noted that the goal of the Bektashi state is to promote a tolerant version of Islam. He described it as a “moderate Islamic microstate” that would send a message: “Don’t let the stigma of some define who Muslims are.”

The proposal underscores Albania’s broader efforts to promote religious harmony and stands as a symbolic commitment to peace and tolerance on the global stage.