Category: Projects

Date: March 15, 2023

In a compelling session of the “Open Seminars” series, hosted by the Institute “Sami Frashëri,” Dr. Ardian Muhaj, a distinguished historian and researcher at the Institute of History, presented an insightful analysis titled “Deconstructing Serbian Myths about Kosovo.” This discussion brought to light the enduring influence of Serbian historical myths on contemporary political narratives and their role in legitimizing past and ongoing acts of aggression towards the Albanian population in Kosovo.

Key Highlights from the Seminar:

  • Historical Paradigms: Dr. Muhaj emphasized the critical role these myths have played as historical paradigms, shaping not only the Serbian genocide against Albanians but also continuing to affect the current political climate regarding Kosovo.
  • Legal and Historical Contestation: The seminar explored Serbia’s contestation of Kosovo’s citizenship, distinguishing between legal contestation—diminished by the International Court of Justice—and historical contestation rooted in these myths, which remain unchallenged by the Albanian elite, particularly in diplomatic engagements.

Myth Deconstructions Presented by Dr. Muhaj:

  1. Kosovo as a Serbian Word: Challenging the internalization of this myth by Albanian studies, Dr. Muhaj questioned the Slavic etymology of “Kosovo,” suggesting an alternative analysis that casts doubt on its Slavic origin.
  2. Serb Majority in the Middle Ages: Dr. Muhaj refuted the politically constructed myth of a Serbian majority in medieval Kosovo, citing the lack of serious historical data and demographic records from the era.
  3. The Battle of Kosovo in 1389: The seminar critically examined the purported Battle of Kosovo, with Dr. Muhaj arguing against the historical validity of such an event and describing it as a multifaceted political myth serving Serbian political interests.
  4. Albanian Colonization during Ottoman Rule: Dr. Muhaj addressed the foundational myth that Albanians colonized Kosovo during Ottoman rule, a narrative that has underpinned Serbia’s policies of ethnic cleansing and colonization towards Albanians.

The Importance of Myth Deconstruction:

Dr. Muhaj highlighted the urgent need to deconstruct and politically defunctionalize these myths to counter their use in justifying violence and oppression against Kosovo’s Albanian population. By critically examining and challenging these narratives, the seminar aimed to foster a more accurate historical understanding and prevent the further exploitation of these myths for political gain.

Engage Further with the Seminar:

For those keen on delving deeper into Dr. Muhaj’s critical examination, the full seminar discussions are available through the following YouTube links, offering a comprehensive overview of each myth addressed:

  • Myth Analysis and Introduction: Watch Here
  • The Battle of Kosovo and Serbian Majority: Watch Here
  • Legal Contestation and Historical Myths: Watch Here
  • Deconstructing Albanian Colonization Myth: Watch Here

About “Open Seminars”:

“Open Seminars” continues to foster an intellectual environment where scholars and the public converge to explore and critique contemporary societal challenges. Through the lens of experts like Dr. Muhaj, the series enriches the discourse on pivotal issues affecting the Balkans and encourages a more nuanced understanding of historical and political narratives.





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Dr. Mentor Beqa Explores Lessons from the American Political System at “Open Seminars”

February 18, 2023 – At a recent session of “Open Seminars,” Dr. Mentor Beqa, the Director of the Institute “Sami Frashëri,” addressed the critical issue of unchecked political party power in Albania and the potential lessons to be learned from the American political system.

Key Insights from the Seminar:

Albania’s political landscape is characterized by the dominant influence of political parties across all spheres of governance, leading to a significant imbalance in the country’s checks and balances system. Dr. Beqa outlined the current state where political parties, upon gaining power, effectively control the legislative, executive, and judicial branches, undermining the democratic principle of separation of powers.

Comparative Analysis with the American System:

  • Separation of Powers: Dr. Beqa highlighted the United States’ political system, which is founded on a clear separation of powers among an independent judiciary, the executive branch, and a bicameral legislature. This structure ensures that no single entity gains overwhelming control.
  • Checks and Balances: The American system’s checks and balances act as a safeguard against the concentration of power, a model that Albania could emulate to mitigate the influence of political parties.

Proposed Reforms for Albania:

  • Establishing an Independent Judiciary: A genuinely independent judiciary is crucial for upholding the rule of law and ensuring that political parties cannot unduly influence legal outcomes.
  • Decentralization of Power: Introducing measures to decentralize power would prevent the central government from wielding unrestricted authority.
  • Strengthening Independent Media and Civil Society: A vibrant and independent media and active civil society are essential for holding political parties accountable and ensuring transparency in governance.

Conclusion:

Dr. Beqa’s seminar shed light on the pressing need for Albania to reform its political system by adopting principles from the American model to establish a more balanced and democratic governance structure. By implementing a system of checks and balances, Albania can safeguard against the excessive power of political parties and ensure a more equitable political environment.

For a more in-depth understanding of Dr. Beqa’s analysis and recommendations, the full seminar is available for viewing at this link.





Dr. Çelo Hoxha Explores the Illegitimacy of Communist Power in Albania at “Open Seminars”

January 17, 2023 – In the last session of the “Open Seminars” series, organized by the Institute “Sami Frashëri” and the Center for Advanced Studies, Dr. Çelo Hoxha, Director of the Institute for the Study of Communist Crimes (ISKK), presented a compelling analysis on the topic: “The Illegitimacy of Communist Power in Albania.” This seminar offered a profound exploration into the unlawful establishment and operation of the communist regime in Albania, highlighting its extralegal nature from its inception to its dissolution.

Seminar Highlights:

  • Illegitimate Foundation: Dr. Hoxha argued that the Communist regime in Albania was installed unlawfully, with the Albanian Communist Party (later the Party of Labour) remaining an occult, extrajudicial entity never registered by any Albanian state institution or document.
  • Acknowledgment of Illegality: Referencing historical documents, Dr. Hoxha noted that even the leaders of the Communist Party acknowledged this illegitimacy but failed to take any measures to legalize the party within the Albanian state’s legal framework.
  • Public Oversight: This critical aspect of Albania’s history has been largely overlooked by the public discourse, emphasizing that Albania was effectively governed by an illegal organization from 1944 until 1991.
  • Violence and Suppression: During the discussion, Dr. Hoxha highlighted the disturbing fact that between 1939 and 1950, the communist forces were responsible for more Albanian deaths than any occupying army, including the Italians and Germans.

About the “Open Seminars”: This intellectual platform, developed by the Institute “Sami Frashëri” in Tirana and the CNS in Sarajevo, facilitates critical discussions on contemporary societal challenges. The seminars aim to engage scholars, students, and the public in meaningful dialogue on various topics.

Impact of the Seminar:

Dr. Hoxha’s presentation not only shed light on a pivotal yet underexamined aspect of Albanian history but also encouraged a reevaluation of the narratives surrounding the communist era in Albania. By examining the extralegal foundations and actions of the Communist Party, the seminar urged a critical reassessment of the period’s legacy and its implications for Albania’s historical and legal understanding.

For those interested in delving deeper into Dr. Hoxha’s analysis and the broader implications of his findings, the complete discussion is available for viewing at this link.





Prof. Asoc. Dr. Fabian Zhilla Discusses the Negative Impact of Media on Public Ethics at “Open Seminars”

December 25, 2022 – In a thought-provoking session of “Open Seminars” organized by the Institute “Sami Frashëri” and the Center for Advanced Studies, Prof. Asoc. Dr. Fabian Zhilla, a leading figure in the “No More Shame” movement, addressed the critical issue of the detrimental effects of ‘trash’ TV shows on public ethics. The seminar titled “Public Ethics and Mass Media” took place with Dr. Vehap Kola, where Prof. Zhilla emphasized the growing concern over the vulgarization of culture and its implications, particularly for the youth.

Key Highlights from the Seminar:

  • Cultural Vulgarization: Prof. Zhilla, referencing Robert Pattison’s “The Triumph of Vulgarity: Rock Music in the Mirror of Romanticism,” delved into how culture is being reshaped under the influence of vulgar content in media. He argued that the unchecked spread of vulgarity threatens to undermine civilization by replacing elite culture with a distorted reflection of societal values.
  • Hypersexualization in Reality Shows: The discussion highlighted the issue of hypersexualization in reality TV programs, critiquing it as a redefinition of art that strips it of its subtlety, finesse, and educational value.
  • The Role of Shame: Prof. Zhilla advocated for a dual approach involving public backlash and regulatory measures by the state. He particularly focused on the concept of ‘shame’ as a moral regulator, distinguishing it from legal instruments by its ability to facilitate a personal relationship with values, virtues, and principles.

Cultivating the Institution of Shame: The seminar explored how cultivating a sense of shame could prevent the vulgarization of culture and art. By reintroducing nuanced, educated public debates on the topic, society’s expectations for the quality of art and culture can be elevated, creating an audience that inherently rejects vulgarity.

The Dominance of Vulgarity: Prof. Zhilla lamented the current dominance of vulgarity in political, artistic, and cultural discourse, highlighting it as not just a legal violation but a deeply shameful phenomenon.

About “Open Seminars”: This intellectual discussion platform, developed by the Institute “Sami Frashëri” in Tirana and the CNS in Sarajevo, hosts bi-weekly meetings in Tirana. It aims to stimulate critical approaches to contemporary societal challenges. Students who regularly attend the seminars are awarded certificates of attendance by the organizers.

For a deeper insight into Prof. Zhilla’s discussion on the negative impact of media on public ethics and the broader cultural implications, the session is available for viewing at this link.





Conference Invitation: “The Albanian Renaissance in the 21st Century”

The Institute of Political Studies “Sami Frashëri” in Tirana, in collaboration with the Hasan Tahsin Institute in Pristina, is honored to host a scientific conference on the theme: “The Albanian Renaissance in the 21st Century.” This event aims to explore the enduring legacy of the Albanian National Renaissance ideas in contemporary society and their relevance in the politically fragmented Albanian nation across several states.

Event Details:

  • Venue: Hasan Tahsin Institute, Rr. Kosturi, Nr. 36, Pristina
  • Date: Monday, December 26, 2022
  • Time: 12:00 – 15:00

Conference Overview:

This conference will delve into the resonance of the Albanian National Renaissance’s ideas in the 21st century, addressing the need for updating these ideas within today’s Albanian society and contextualizing the renaissance message and mission within the broader Albanian nation. Key aspects of the conference will include:

  • Historical Context: Examination of the causes that have led to the current state of Albanian national identity and unity.
  • Contemporary Analysis: Analysis of key factors influencing Albanian developments today.
  • Future Prospects: Discussion on the potential pathways and prospects for an Albanian renaissance in the 21st century, with an interdisciplinary approach.

Participation Information:

For those interested in attending, please reserve your spot through the following link: Conference Participation Form

This scientific conference represents a pivotal opportunity for scholars, students, policymakers, and the general public interested in the Albanian historical and cultural legacy to come together. Through interdisciplinary discussions, we aim to shed light on the path forward for the Albanian nation, exploring avenues for a renaissance that resonates with the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century.

We warmly invite you to join us in this insightful exploration of the Albanian Renaissance’s impact and its potential to inspire societal and cultural renewal in our time.

Your participation will undoubtedly enrich the dialogue, and we look forward to welcoming you to an engaging and thought-provoking conference.





Prof. Asoc. Dr. Ilir Kalemaj Addresses Security Challenges in the Balkans at “Open Seminars”

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.





“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.