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December 9, 2022 – In a profound exploration of security dynamics within the Balkans, Prof. Asoc. Dr. Ilir Kalemaj, Deputy Rector of New York University of Tirana, led the latest session of “Open Seminars” hosted by the Institute “Sami Frashëri” in Tirana and the Center for Advanced Studies (CNS) in Sarajevo. The seminar titled “Security in the Balkans: Cooperation versus Rivalry” delved into the intricate balance between historical contexts and contemporary developments, shedding light on the region’s current security architecture.

Key Highlights from the Seminar:

  • Diachronic and Synchronic Analysis: Prof. Kalemaj presented a comprehensive analysis that spanned both historical and current perspectives, focusing on how past events continue to influence present-day security concerns in the Balkans.
  • Impact of Russia’s Aggression in Ukraine: The seminar explored the repercussions of Russia’s aggression in Ukraine on the European security framework and its specific manifestations in the Balkan region.
  • Serbia’s Strategic Dependence: A significant portion of the discussion was dedicated to examining Serbia’s strategic dependency on Russia, juxtaposed against its economic orientation towards the European Union.
  • Societal Dynamics in Serbia: Prof. Kalemaj offered insights into Serbian society, discussing nationalist trends, societal divisions, and the aspirations of a segment of the population advocating for peaceful relations within the region.
  • Political Rivalries in Serbia: The conversation highlighted the competitive nationalism within Serbia’s political elite, with Alexander Vučić portrayed as a relatively moderate partner for the West.
  • Balkan Vulnerabilities: The seminar identified weak points in the Balkans, such as Bosnia-Herzegovina and Kosovo, and how these vulnerabilities could be exploited by external actors like Russia to destabilize the region.
  • International Interest in the Balkans: Despite a resurgence of attention from the USA and the EU, Prof. Kalemaj emphasized that global strategic interests are increasingly focused on the Pacific and Southeast Asia, affecting the level of engagement in the Balkans.

Albanian-Serbian Relations: Prof. Kalemaj stressed that resolving issues between Albania and Serbia is crucial for establishing strategic stability in the so-called Western Balkans, with the normalization of Kosovo-Serbia relations seen as a top priority.

Dynamic Audience Engagement: The seminar fostered a lively exchange of ideas and opinions, with Prof. Kalemaj engaging with a dynamic audience focused on critical issues pivotal to the future of peace and security in the Balkans and the role of Albanians in the region.

About “Open Seminars”: This intellectual platform for discussions is a collaborative effort between the Institute “Sami Frashëri” Tirana, and CNS Sarajevo, offering bi-weekly meetings open to the public. Regular attendees, particularly students, are awarded certificates of attendance by the organizers, further incentivizing engagement and learning.

For those interested in a deeper dive into Prof. Kalemaj’s analysis and the broader “Open Seminars” series, the session is available for viewing at this link.





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“Sami Frashëri” Launches “Open Seminars” to Revitalize Balkan Public Discourse

Tirana, Albania – In an ambitious move to address the critical shortfall in meaningful public dialogue within Albania and the broader Balkan region, the Institute “Sami Frashëri” in Tirana, alongside the Center for Advanced Studies (CNS) in Sarajevo, announces the commencement of the “Open Seminars” initiative. This innovative platform is set to challenge the prevailing trends of partisan rhetoric, journalistic clichés, and the oversimplification of complex issues that currently dominate the public sphere.

Background of the Initiative:

The “Open Seminars” initiative emerges against a backdrop of a dire need for substantive dialogue and critical thinking in the Albanian and Balkan public discourse. The pervasive social anomy, a product of the education system’s failure to address societal challenges and the local civil society’s focus on external concerns, underscores the urgency for a forum that fosters genuine intellectual engagement.

Purpose and Objectives:

Designed as a vibrant agora for idea exchange, the “Open Seminars” aim to cultivate a public space where critical social, political, economic, and cultural issues are not only discussed but made accessible to a wider audience. This forum intends to:

  • Facilitate Access: Open avenues for students and the public to engage with significant societal topics.
  • Raise Awareness: Enhance understanding among various community segments about pivotal events and phenomena.
  • Educate Youth: Provide youths with a comprehensive portfolio of ideas and arguments for public discourse.
  • Foster Intellectual Networks: Establish a collaborative network of intellectuals dedicated to shaping Albania’s future direction.
  • Promote Intellectual Exchanges: Encourage dialogue between Western Balkans intellectuals, enriching the cultural and academic landscape.

Targeted Audiences:

The “Open Seminars” specifically target students, young professionals, and the general public, aiming to engage them in meaningful discussions that transcend conventional boundaries and encourage a deeper understanding of societal complexities.

How It Works:

Convening bi-monthly in small, interactive groups, the seminars will cover a range of topics under the guidance of expert lecturers. While primarily designed for in-person engagement, the initiative also includes online sessions and recorded broadcasts to ensure broader accessibility and participation.

Through the Lens of Critical Thought and Collaboration:

The “Open Seminars” represent a significant step towards reinvigorating the intellectual and public discourse in Albania and the Balkans. By addressing the contemporary societal challenges with a multidisciplinary approach and fostering an environment of critical thought and dialogue, the Institute “Sami Frashëri” and CNS are poised to build a rich intellectual ecosystem that not only confronts but also transcends the current limitations of public debate.

As the “Open Seminars” initiative unfolds, the organizers invite all interested individuals to join this transformative journey of learning, discussion, and intellectual growth, marking a new chapter in the Balkans’ quest for a more informed and engaged society.





“Sami Frashëri” and CNS Host Second Training Session on Research Coaching

The Institute of Political Studies “Sami Frashëri” in Tirana, in collaboration with the Center for Advanced Studies (CNS) in Sarajevo, successfully conducted the second training session of their Research Coaching program. Held at the Academy of Sciences, the session focused on Research Methods in the social sciences and humanities, led by Dr. Mentor Beqa.

Training Highlights:

  • Expert Guidance: Participants received in-depth training on research methodologies from Dr. Mentor Beqa, enriching their understanding and application of scientific research techniques.
  • Project Presentations: The session featured presentations by participants on their individual research projects, reflecting on insights and learnings from the first training conducted by Prof. Jeton Mehmeti.
  • Personalized Research Topics: Each participant, under the guidance of their coaches, embarked on researching a specific topic of their choice, marking a critical step in their academic development.

Program Overview:

This training is part of a comprehensive program designed to enhance the research capabilities of young scholars in the Balkans. By providing targeted training and mentorship, the program aims to contribute to the development of a vibrant scientific community in the region, fostering innovation and critical thinking in social sciences and humanities research.

Impact and Future Outlook:

The Research Coaching program represents a pivotal initiative by ISP “Sami Frashëri” and CNS to support emerging scholars in their academic pursuits. Through sessions like these, participants are equipped with the necessary tools and knowledge to conduct meaningful research, potentially leading to significant contributions to their respective fields.

The program not only aims to improve research skills but also to cultivate a culture of scholarly excellence and collaborative learning among young researchers in Albania, Kosovo, Montenegro, North Macedonia, and beyond.





ISP “Sami Frashëri” Launches 2022-2023 Research Training Program for Young Scholars

The Institute of Political Studies “Sami Frashëri” has officially commenced its 2022-2023 Research Training Program, designed to hone the research skills of selected young scholars across Albania, Kosovo, Montenegro, and North Macedonia. The two-day training session, supported by the Center for Advanced Studies, featured Professor Jeton Mehmeti guiding participants through the entire lifecycle of a scientific research project—from the inception of the idea to the submission of the proposal.

Program Highlights:

  • Expert Guidance: Participants received training from Professor Jeton Mehmeti, who covered the comprehensive cycle of scientific research project development.
  • Objectives: The primary goals of this program are to improve the research abilities of young scholars and to foster the development of a robust scientific research culture in the region.
  • Target Audience: The call was open to young researchers who have completed their Master’s degrees, are currently engaged in Doctoral studies, or are in the early post-doctoral phase, aiming to refine or advance their methodological skills in scientific research.

Program Offerings:

  • Mentorship: Selected participants will be mentored through the research process by a team of professionals until the completion of their proposed works.
  • Publication Opportunity: Academic articles produced under this program will be published based on academic merit in scientific journals and on the websites of the organizing institutions.
  • Stipend: Each chosen participant will receive a stipend of 600 Euros as a reward for their dedication and work throughout the research process.

Impact and Future Prospects:

The Research Training Program by ISP “Sami Frashëri” represents a significant step towards enriching the academic landscape in the Balkans. By equipping young scholars with advanced research skills and providing a platform for their work to be recognized and disseminated, the program aims to contribute to the scientific community’s growth and the development of a healthy research culture in the region.

This initiative underscores the Institute’s commitment to academic excellence and its support for emerging scholars in political studies and related fields. As participants embark on their research journeys, the knowledge and experience gained through this program are expected to have a lasting impact on their careers and the broader academic community.

For more information on the program and future calls for applications, interested parties are encouraged to visit the Institute of Political Studies “Sami Frashëri” and the Center for Advanced Studies’ official websites.





Assoc. Prof. Taulanda Jupi Discusses Art, Culture, and Politics at Frashëri Clubs Event

An enlightening conversation titled “Art, Culture, Heritage” featuring Assoc. Prof. Taulanda Jupi took place on June 16, 2022, under the auspices of the Frashëri Clubs. Assoc. Prof. Jupi, a prominent lecturer at the University of Arts in Tirana, led a comprehensive discussion on the intersections of art, culture, and politics, emphasizing the critical role of state support in fostering cultural growth and artistic innovation.

Key Insights:

  • Politics and Cultural Production: The session highlighted how political dynamics are deeply intertwined with cultural creativity, influencing the production and dissemination of art. Assoc. Prof. Jupi provided an insightful analysis on the necessity of state policies that support and incentivize national culture.
  • State Support for the Arts: The importance of governmental recognition and enhancement of the creative sector was a focal point. Prof. Jupi argued that such support is essential not only for preserving national heritage but also for ensuring its continuous evolution and relevance in the future.
  • Engagement and Support: The dialogue underscored the need for ongoing engagement with and support for the artistic community by the state. This approach, as discussed, is fundamental to enriching national culture and heritage, guaranteeing its preservation for future generations.

Event Impact:

The “Art, Culture, Heritage” event provided a dynamic platform for examining the significant relationship between state politics and cultural development. It fostered a rich conversation on cultural policy, artistic freedom, and the necessity of a supportive environment for artists to thrive.

Full Conversation Available:

For those interested in exploring the detailed discussions and insights presented by Assoc. Prof. Taulanda Jupi, the full conversation is available for viewing at ISP “Sami Frashëri” Facebook Page.





Balkans 2030 Conference: “Balkans in the EU and NATO: Peace in Europe”

The Institute of Political Studies “Sami Frashëri” (ISP), in collaboration with the Center for Advanced Studies, successfully organized the second meeting of the Balkans 2030 series, titled “Balkans in the EU and NATO: Peace in Europe,” held in Sarajevo on June 9, 2022. This conference brought together professionals from academia, civil society, diplomacy, and politics from six Balkan countries to discuss the impact of Russia’s aggression against Ukraine on Western Balkans security and the region’s future in the European Union (EU) and North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO).

Conference Objectives

The primary aim was to explore the implications of external geopolitical tensions on the Balkans and to assess regional cooperation initiatives and the advancement of Balkan countries’ EU and NATO membership processes as essential mechanisms for ensuring stability and security in the region.

Key Discussions and Findings

  • Impact of Russia’s Aggression Against Ukraine: The conference opened with a focus on the immediate and potential long-term effects of Russia’s actions on the geopolitical landscape of the Western Balkans.
  • Open Balkans Initiative: A significant conclusion from the first day was the identification of the Open Balkans initiative as a potential loophole for Russia to circumvent sanctions imposed by the US and EU through Serbia’s economic and political ties with the Moscow-led Eurasian Economic Union.
  • Regional Cooperation and Membership Processes: Discussions emphasized the importance of enhancing regional cooperation and accelerating the EU and NATO membership processes for Balkan countries as a pathway to ensuring regional stability and security.

Participation and Contributions

The conference featured esteemed international figures in diplomacy and security, facilitating an insightful exchange on the future security landscape of the Balkans. Over the course of two days, participants engaged in robust discussions, leveraging diverse perspectives to address complex security threats, particularly in light of Russia’s unprovoked aggression against Ukraine.

Conclusions and Recommendations

  • Strengthening Regional Initiatives: The conference underscored the need for stronger regional initiatives that align with EU and NATO standards, promoting peace, stability, and security in the Balkans.
  • Mitigating External Influences: Participants recommended concerted efforts to mitigate the potential for external geopolitical influences to destabilize the region, particularly through economic and political channels.
  • Enhancing EU and NATO Integration: A consensus emerged on the critical importance of accelerating the integration of Balkan countries into the EU and NATO as a cornerstone for regional peace and stability.

Future Directions

“Balkans in the EU and NATO: Peace in Europe” has set the stage for ongoing dialogue and collaboration among Balkan states, EU and NATO bodies, and international partners. The Institute of Political Studies “Sami Frashëri” and the Center for Advanced Studies are committed to facilitating future conferences and initiatives under the Balkans 2030 series, aiming to contribute to the realization of a stable, secure, and integrated Balkan region.

Acknowledgments

The organizers express their gratitude to all participants, speakers, and partners for their valuable contributions to the conference’s success. Special thanks are extended to the local and international bodies that supported this initiative, underscoring the collaborative spirit that defines the Balkans 2030 series.





Navigating Post-Truth and Media in the Context of the Ukraine War

In a significant and timely discussion hosted on June 2, 2022, journalists Lavdrim Lita and Sebastian Zonja led a compelling exploration of the post-truth era and the media’s role, particularly regarding the ongoing war in Ukraine. This conversation, part of the esteemed series by the Frashëri Clubs, offered profound insights into the complex interplay between truth, media, and conflict in today’s digital landscape.

Exploring the Age of Post-Truth:

The session opened with an examination of the post-truth era, where objective facts are often overshadowed by appeals to emotion and personal belief. Lita and Zonja delved into how the digital media ecosystem contributes to the distortion of truth, creating realities that are manipulated for various agendas.

Media’s Role in the Ukraine War:

A significant focus of the discussion was on the media’s role in communicating and, at times, manipulating the narrative of the war in Ukraine. The journalists highlighted the use of hybrid warfare tactics, where misinformation, propaganda, and the strategic dissemination of information play crucial roles in shaping public perception.

The Challenge of Navigating Information:

The conversation underscored the difficulties in discerning truth amidst the deluge of information and misinformation. Lita and Zonja stressed the importance of media literacy, advocating for a more critical approach to evaluating sources and the content disseminated across media platforms.

Impactful Insights:

This engaging discussion provided participants with a deeper understanding of the challenges and responsibilities associated with navigating the media landscape in times of conflict. It emphasized the need for vigilance, critical thinking, and the proactive questioning of information sources in the digital age.

Watch the Full Conversation:

For those interested in gaining a comprehensive understanding of the dynamics at play in the age of post-truth and the critical role of media in the context of warfare, the full conversation with Lavdrim Lita and Sebastian Zonja is accessible at ISP “Sami Frashëri” Facebook Page.





Amb. Amel Kovaçeviç on Future Studies and the Balkans at the Frashëri Book Clubs

In a recent gathering at the Frashëri Book Clubs, Amb. Amel Kovaçeviç, CEO of the United Bank of Albania, led a significant discussion on the role of future studies in forecasting and shaping the Balkan region’s socio-economic and political future. The session, attended by students and young intellectuals, focused on how strategic foresight and predictive analysis could serve as essential tools in understanding and directing the region’s development.

Key Highlights:

  • Emphasis on Future Studies: Amb. Kovaçeviç introduced the concept of future studies as a critical methodology for anticipating and navigating the complexities of the Balkans’ future. He discussed the potential of this interdisciplinary field in offering actionable insights and strategic directions for the region.
  • Analysis of Trends and Scenarios: Through his presentation, Amb. Kovaçeviç underscored the importance of analyzing current trends to project future scenarios. This approach aims to facilitate proactive planning and foster regional cooperation, aiming for a unified vision of prosperity and stability.
  • Engagement with the Audience: The attendees, comprising students and young intellectuals, engaged in a vibrant exchange with Amb. Kovaçeviç. The discussion illuminated various innovative strategies to address foreseeable challenges and seize opportunities within the Balkan countries.
  • Insights from a Distinguished Career: With Amb. Kovaçeviç’s extensive background in finance, banking, and diplomacy, the session benefited from real-world insights into the application of future studies in crafting a sustainable framework for the region’s success.

Outcome and Impact:

The conversation at the Frashëri Book Clubs underscored the importance of embracing future studies in the academic and intellectual discourse concerning the Balkans. It highlighted the necessity of collective effort and strategic thinking in achieving a harmonious and prosperous future for the region. The session was a clear demonstration of the value of engaging with experienced professionals to enrich the dialogue on the Balkans’ developmental pathways.

This event reaffirmed the significance of future studies in shaping the Balkans’ trajectory, emphasizing a shared responsibility among the region’s youth and intellectuals to actively participate in crafting their future.





Delving into Conservatism with Brenton Kotorri at the Frashëri Clubs

The Frashëri Clubs hosted a captivating session titled “Conservatism – A Dialogue with Brenton Kotorri” on May 5th, 2022, enriching the ongoing discourse on political ideologies. Brenton Kotorri, a journalist and political science researcher, led an insightful discussion that unraveled the essence of conservatism, presenting a comparative analysis with other political ideologies and bringing to light its unique manifestation within the Albanian cultural and religious landscape.

Event Highlights:

  • Understanding Conservatism: Kotorri articulated the foundational elements of conservatism, emphasizing its dedication to tradition, the significance of continuity, and a cautious approach to societal and governmental changes. This presentation allowed attendees to grasp the fundamental differences and similarities between conservatism and other political ideologies.
  • Conservatism in the Albanian Context: A significant portion of the dialogue was dedicated to exploring how conservatism intertwines with Albania’s specific cultural, historical, and religious nuances. Kotorri’s analysis offered a unique perspective on the adaptation and influence of conservative principles in Albania, providing a deeper understanding of its political and social dynamics.
  • Interplay with Religion: The session highlighted the intricate relationship between conservatism and religion in Albania. The discussion shed light on how religious beliefs influence conservative values and policy-making in the country, sparking lively debates among participants about faith’s role in the conservative movement.

Impact on Students:

The dialogue proved to be exceptionally enlightening for the students present, who benefited from a thorough exploration of conservatism beyond textbook definitions. It encouraged active engagement and critical thinking about the application and implications of conservative philosophy in modern governance and societal norms.

Continuing the Conversation:

This session exemplified the Frashëri Clubs’ commitment to fostering intellectual growth and critical analysis among students and attendees. The dialogue with Brenton Kotorri underscored the importance of understanding and debating political ideologies to cultivate a well-informed and analytical approach to political studies.

Watch the Full Conversation:

For those interested in diving deeper into the discussions on conservatism and its relevance to the Albanian context, the full conversation is available at ISP “Sami Frashëri” Facebook Page.





“Retour au Kosovo” Finally Translated into Albanian!

Event Highlight: Graphic Novel Launch by Albanian Author Gani Jakupi

On a recent Sunday afternoon, the Institute of Political Studies “Sami Frashëri” hosted a significant cultural event — the Albanian launch of “Retour au Kosovo,” a graphic novel by Albanian author Gani Jakupi in collaboration with Argentine illustrator Jorge Gonzales. Initially published in French in 2014, the work is acclaimed as “the most comprehensive portrayal of the Kosovo War.”

Translation Journey:

The path to translating and publishing this novel in Albanian was long and fraught with challenges. Gani Jakupi shared during the event, “Someone had it in their hands back in 2012, but the publishing house’s manager said: ‘Too expensive! Who spends money on this?'” Despite these hurdles, the novel has been successfully translated into Albanian by Gazmend Bërlajolli, adding to its existing translations in Spanish, Italian, Polish, and other languages.

Critical Acclaim and Participant Reactions:

Participants at the launch expressed the essential need for the novel’s translation into Albanian. Historian Ardian Muhaj remarked, “The absence of the novel in Albanian was an artistic abortion.” Writer Mehmet Elezi, moved by the work, stated, “This is the most complete tableau of the Kosovo War.”

Former Albanian diplomat and writer, Besnik Mustafaj, praised the novel as a masterpiece, commenting, “This is not just a book. It’s an art catalog, a masterpiece. Those who have read it understand best what I mean. Congratulations, Gani!”

The Novel’s Significance:

“Retour au Kosovo” offers a poignant and in-depth exploration of the Kosovo War, providing readers with a unique perspective through the medium of graphic storytelling. Its translation into Albanian opens up this important work to a broader audience, enabling a deeper connection with the narrative among Albanian speakers.

The event not only celebrated the novel’s launch but also highlighted the importance of making such significant works accessible to all interested readers. By bringing “Retour au Kosovo” to the Albanian public, the “ProArte Institute” has contributed significantly to the cultural dialogue surrounding the Kosovo War and its representation in art and literature.

Looking Forward:

The successful translation and launch of “Retour au Kosovo” in Albanian underscore the vital role of literary and artistic works in bridging historical narratives and contemporary understanding. It marks a significant achievement in the cultural exchange between Albania and the broader world, promising further exploration and discussion of this crucial period in history.