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World's smallest ‘Sovereign State of the Bektashi Order’?
10-23-2024
Have You Heard of the ‘Sovereign State of the Bektashi Order’?
Chances are, you haven’t—at least not yet. But if plans move forward, it could soon become the world’s smallest microstate, akin to a Muslim version of Vatican City, though only a quarter of its size.
Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama has proposed establishing a sovereign state for the Bektashi Order of Sufi Muslims in Tirana to promote “moderation, tolerance, and peaceful coexistence.” This 10-hectare piece of land in Albania’s capital would have its own passport, borders, and self-governance over religious affairs, independent from Tirana’s jurisdiction.
While Albania is approximately 50% Muslim, only 10% of that group belongs to the Bektashi Order, making them the fourth largest religious community in the country after Sunni Muslims, Catholics, and Orthodox Christians.
Reflecting the Order’s progressive values, the microstate would allow alcohol and uphold a relaxed dress code, welcoming everyone to wear what they choose.
At the United Nations, Rama highlighted Albania’s history of religious tolerance, mentioning how the country sheltered Jewish refugees during World War II and provided asylum to Afghans following the Taliban’s resurgence in 2021.
What is the Bektashi Order?
The Bektashi Order is a mystical branch of Islam founded in the Ottoman Empire (modern-day Turkey) in the 13th century. An offshoot of Sufism, Bektashism emphasizes spirituality and a direct connection with God. Known for their tolerance, Bektashis are open to other religions and philosophies.
The Bektashi headquarters moved to Albania in the 1930s after the Order was banned in Turkey. Estimates of their global numbers range between 7 and 20 million.
Prime Minister Rama sees the microstate as a way to promote Albania’s long-standing ethos of religious tolerance. The country also celebrates its connection to Mother Teresa, who was of Albanian descent.
The Order has praised the plan, saying: “This historic step will recognize the Bektashi Order as a sovereign, self-governing state, dedicated to fostering its centuries-old culture of moderation and spiritual involvement.”
How Would the Microstate Function?
If approved, the Bektashi microstate would likely follow a theocratic model, similar to Vatican City, which is led by the Pope. In this case, the leader of the Bektashi Order, Haji Edmond Brahimaj Mondi (Baba Mondi), would preside over both state and religious affairs.
According to reports, citizenship in the microstate would be limited to members of the clergy and administrative workers.
Baba Mondi emphasized the spiritual nature of the endeavor, stating: “This isn’t about political power or land acquisition; it’s about solidifying the Bektashi Order’s mission of spiritual moderation and protecting our religious practices.”
He added, “Albania has long been a beacon of religious coexistence, and this microstate is a testament to the forward-thinking leadership of Prime Minister Rama. For our global community, it represents a moment of pride, renewal, and a strengthening of our identity on the world stage.”
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