Author: Elis Gjevori
As World War II came to a close, the “Chameria genocide” unfolded in northern Greece, leading to the expulsion of Albanian Muslims from the region. Today, this event remains a contentious issue between Albania and Greece, marking the 80th anniversary of the killings. The forced expulsion of Albanian Chams resulted in thousands of deaths, rapes, and destroyed villages. The Greek nationalist forces were responsible for this ethnic cleansing, displacing over 20,000 Albanian Chams mainly to Albania. The historical trauma still resonates with the descendants of those affected, like Sildi Koqini, who advocates for the preservation of Chameria’s memory for future…
In late April, an Israeli parliamentary delegation visited Taiwan to strengthen ties between the countries amid Israel’s increasing international isolation. Despite lacking official diplomatic relations, both countries share common historical backgrounds, serving as sanctuaries for their respective political projects since the late 1940s. Relations have warmed following a Hamas-led attack on Israel in October, with Taiwan providing financial aid to Israel and supporting its cause. Although China historically supported the Palestinian cause, Taiwan aligns with Israel due to shared democratic and liberal values, as well as dependence on US support. Over the past 50 years, the informal relationship has led…
A recent petition in Albania is shedding light on the struggles faced by Palestinians in the country. Vincent van Gerven Oei, a signatory of the petition, highlighted the importance of cultural figures taking a stand and holding themselves accountable on this issue. The petition emphasizes Albania’s history of supporting both Jews and Palestinians, referencing past support for Jewish refugees during WWII. Linking Decolonialism and Resistance Albania’s past support for the Palestine Liberation Organization contrasts with their current alignment towards the Western world order. The Palestinian cause is viewed within the intersection of decolonialism, queer resistance, feminism, and combating fascism. Younger…