A new religious state is set to emerge in Europe. This time, not in Rome but in the heart of the Albanian capital Tirana. On just ten hectares, a Muslim microstate for a Shiite minority is to be created, according to The New York Times.
This state will be open to the Bektashis, a Shiite order committed to a tolerant conception of religion, but considered heretical by conservative Shiites and Sunnis. These Bektashis have been established in Albania since the 13th century after being driven out of Turkey.
A Muslim state particular
In this state thought of as the Vatican, the government will authorize alcohol and the veil will not be obligatory. A special case in the history of Islam. The Bektashi will have its own borders, its own green passport, a secret service against its detractors but no court of justice.
The future leader, Edmond Brahimaj, better known as Baba Mondi, specifies that there will be no army or border guards. According to him, the state will not be forced to expand.
The socialist-majority parliament needs to vote on the text so that it can see the light of day. Lawyers are currently working on setting up the micro-nation so that it can be integrated into Albanian law. After the creation of the state, it is not certain that foreign countries will agree to recognize it, just like the Vatican.