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European Islam - Albania/Kosovo, 2008 When Islam is a preocupation for the occidental world, Albanian areas give an other face of this religion. The multi-confessionality, the twenty-three years of official atheism, and the presence of a Muslim majority make of Albania a particular case in Europe. "Religion of albanian is albanism" is a popular speech of albanian nationalism. Albanians are realy proud to say that Orthodox, Catholics and Muslims live together without problems. Most leaders of islam in that area of the world want it open and turned towards Europa. Many different inspired soufi brotherhood expanded during Ottoman domination in the region as Rifais, Halvetis and Bektashi. This brotherhood is wide spread beside "traditionnel" sunni Islam. The bektashi's pelgrimages are very popular for all muslims in Albania. Even if many mosques, and imam's education are financed by other muslims countries such as Saoudia Arabia, a radical Islam is not going to find easily a fertile ground in albanian areas. |
