Kosovars and Other Albanians: Debunking the Myth of a Greater Albania

Historical Context and Political Manipulations

The idea of a Greater Albania has been a recurring theme in the political discourse of the region, particularly among nationalist factions. It proposes the unification of all territories inhabited by ethnic Albanians, including Kosovo, parts of Macedonia, Montenegro, and Greece. This concept mirrors other nationalist aspirations in the region, such as Greater Greece or Greater Serbia, but like these, it lacks a basis in practical reality.

The Role of Politicians and Nationalist Rhetoric

Politicians across the Balkans have historically exploited the myth of Greater Albania for various reasons:

• In Albania: Figures like former President Sali Berisha have spoken of an "Albanian Federation," hinting at broader nationalistic ambitions. Similarly, former Prime Minister Pandeli Majko suggested a unified educational curriculum for Albanians everywhere, subtly promoting a sense of pan-Albanian nationalism.
• In Kosovo and Macedonia: Public displays of Albanian national symbols and celebrations of Kosovo’s independence are examples of how the idea of a Greater Albania is kept alive in the public consciousness.

However, these political maneuvers often mask deeper socio-economic and political issues within these countries, using nationalism as a distraction from governance failures.

Cultural and Social Divisions Among Albanians

Despite the political rhetoric, the reality on the ground is far more complex. Albanians are not a monolithic group; they are divided by religion, dialect, and regional affiliations, which significantly hinders any potential unification.

Diverse Albanian Groups

• Religious Diversity: Albanians are predominantly Muslim, but there are significant Catholic and Orthodox minorities.
• Linguistic and Regional Differences: The Albanian language has two main dialects: Tosk, spoken in the south, and Geg, in the north and in Kosovo. These dialects are distinct enough to pose communication barriers.

Inter-Community Relations

Relations among different Albanian communities are often strained. For instance, Kosovars are sometimes viewed by other Albanians as being overly materialistic and untrustworthy, while Kosovars may regard other Albanians as backward or criminal. These stereotypes fuel mutual distrust and complicate the idea of a unified national identity.

Economic and Political Self-Interest Against Unification

The elites in Kosovo, Macedonia, and Albania have substantial economic and political interests that serve as a barrier to the idea of unification. These include:

• Control over Resources: Local leaders control valuable economic resources and administrative powers, which they would likely lose in a unified Albanian state.
• Political Power: Current political structures allow regional leaders to maintain significant influence, which could be diluted in a larger, centralized Albanian state.

Conclusion: The Improbability of a Greater Albania

Historically, there has never been a unified Albanian state that included all Albanian-speaking territories. The modern state of Albania was formed in 1912, without Kosovo, and subsequent historical developments have further entrenched the separation of Albanian-inhabited regions.

The myth of a Greater Albania, while a powerful tool for nationalist rhetoric, does not hold up against the economic, political, and cultural realities of the region. The vested interests of local elites, combined with the significant differences among Albanian communities, make the prospect of a unified Albanian state highly unlikely.

In conclusion, while the idea of a Greater Albania serves as a focal point for nationalist aspirations, it remains a myth, more reflective of political agendas than of the feasible political or cultural unity among Albanians.