THE DIFFICULT SITUATION OF THE ALBANIAN LANGUAGE IN NORTH MACEDONIA: THE RISK OF INTERETHNIC CLASHES
Ali Ahmeti’s Contribution to the Legalization of the Albanian Language in North Macedonia
Study by Flamur Buçpapaj
National Platform
#ProtectAlbanian #MakeAlbanianOfficial #DontTouchAlbanian
The status of the Albanian language in North Macedonia is a critical issue requiring vigilance and immediate action from Albanians. Efforts to restrict or amend the Law on the Use of Languages represent a direct attack on the fundamental rights of Albanians and could lead to interethnic tensions and political destabilization in the region.
Ali Ahmeti has played a historic role in advancing the rights of Albanians in North Macedonia, but the real challenge lies in the effective implementation of the Language Law. If the new government attempts to limit the use of Albanian, he and the Albanian political parties must take clear political and diplomatic steps to protect the rights of the Albanian community.
In the face of this challenge, Albanians must remain united and mobilize through political pressure, democratic protests, and international diplomacy. The Albanian media, Nacional and Sulmi Nacional, along with national organizations, should play a key role in informing and raising public awareness. Meanwhile, Albania and Kosovo must intervene to ensure the protection of the rights of Albanians in North Macedonia.
If the new Macedonian government attempts to restrict the linguistic rights of Albanians, the response must be strong and well-organized, defending every inch of national achievements with determination and unity. The Albanian language is not merely an administrative matter but a national identity that cannot be alienated or trampled upon. Protecting the Albanian language in North Macedonia is not just a local issue but a national one that demands a strong reaction from all Albanians. National media must be at the forefront of this battle, informing the public, denouncing violations, and organizing international campaigns.
On the other hand, Albanians must remain united, organize protests, exert political and diplomatic pressure, and defend their rights using every democratic means available. If the Macedonian government attempts to undermine the Law on Languages, Albanians must react forcefully to prevent a regression of their hard-earned rights.
Despite legal advancements, the Albanian language continues to face serious obstacles in its implementation. This situation could escalate interethnic tensions and threaten the country’s stability. State policies must be more inclusive to avoid ethnic divisions.
Recommendations:
Stricter enforcement of the law: The government must monitor and penalize institutions that refuse to implement the use of Albanian.
Interethnic dialogue: Programs should be developed to promote understanding between communities.
Greater Albanian inclusion in administration: More Albanians should be integrated into state institutions.
International support: The EU and international organizations should monitor the situation and assist in the enforcement of the law.
References:
(Include sources from laws, international reports, and academic studies on language rights in North Macedonia.)
Conclusion:
This study aims to contribute to a more informed debate on linguistic rights and their impact on North Macedonia’s social and political stability. A comprehensive and balanced approach is essential to avoid interethnic clashes and build a more stable and equal society.
Institutional and Administrative Barriers
Lack of Effective Law Implementation
Although the Law on the Use of Languages (2019) aims to ensure the use of Albanian as an official language in state institutions, in practice, it is not fully implemented. The main issues include:
Need for continuous legal interpretation: Some institutions do not implement the law, citing legal ambiguities or the absence of specific regulatory guidelines.
Refusal to apply the law by certain institutions: There are cases where central and local institutions reject documents written in Albanian, forcing the Albanian community to use Macedonian.
Lack of mandatory enforcement mechanisms: No specialized body exists to monitor and penalize non-compliance with the law.
Bureaucratic and Infrastructural Barriers
Lack of certified translators: In many institutions, translation from Albanian to Macedonian and vice versa is not guaranteed, making administrative communication difficult for Albanians.
Technical equipment and electronic documents: Many state platforms and administrative forms are not available in Albanian.
Lack of training for officials: A significant number of Macedonian administrative employees lack basic knowledge of the Albanian language, creating obstacles in service delivery to Albanian citizens. The Impact of Politics and Nationalist Attitudes
Political Pressure on Institutions – Some nationalist Macedonian parties strongly oppose the use of the Albanian language in administration, exerting pressure on institutions to avoid implementing the law.
Creating a Climate of Tension – The opposition to the use of Albanian is perceived by the Albanian community as a form of discrimination, worsening interethnic relations.
These issues make it difficult for Albanians in North Macedonia to fully exercise their right to use the Albanian language, increasing the divide between communities and contributing to a sense of social and political exclusion. Even though Albanian is legally recognized as an official language at the state level, in practice, the law is often not fully implemented:
The state and local administration often refuse to use Albanian, requiring documents to be submitted only in Macedonian.
Some institutions have not adopted internal regulations to enforce the law, creating uncertainty regarding the use of Albanian.
There are no penalties for those who violate the law, allowing institutions to ignore legal obligations without consequences.
Institutional and Bureaucratic Barriers
Official documents are not always issued in Albanian, despite legal provisions requiring this.
In some cases, state electronic forms and services are not available in Albanian, making it difficult for Albanians to access administration services.
The lack of certified translators in state institutions creates communication barriers between Albanian citizens and the administration.
Some courts do not provide services in Albanian, making legal proceedings difficult for Albanians who are not fluent in Macedonian.
Political and Social Opposition
Nationalist Macedonian parties openly oppose the use of Albanian, arguing that bilingualism threatens state sovereignty.
Many Macedonian employees in the administration refuse to use Albanian, creating tensions and delays in service delivery.
A segment of Macedonian society views Albanian as a threat to national identity, making its acceptance in public life difficult.
Challenges in Education and Media
Albanians still struggle to open new schools and faculties in Albanian, especially in state universities.
School textbooks for Albanian students are often delayed and poorly translated from Macedonian.
State media provide little content in Albanian, limiting access to information for Albanians.
Restrictions on Public Symbols and Official Spaces
Road signs and public signage in some areas are refused to be written in Albanian, despite legal provisions allowing this in municipalities where Albanians make up more than 20% of the population.
In some state institutions, free communication in Albanian is not permitted, fostering a sense of exclusion among Albanians.
Albanians face difficulties in using the Albanian language in institutions and feel excluded from the state system. This creates a sense of discrimination that negatively affects interethnic relations:
The lack of services in Albanian in the administration makes Albanians feel like second-class citizens.
The refusal to use Albanian in official communication is perceived as a denial of Albanian identity.
Linguistic discrimination deepens divisions between communities and fuels ongoing dissatisfaction.
Nationalist Macedonian parties use the language issue as a political tool, fueling fears that the use of Albanian undermines Macedonian national identity.
Albanians react to linguistic discrimination by demanding more rights, which is often perceived by Macedonians as a threat to their political dominance.
During election periods, the language issue turns into a political battle, further worsening interethnic relations.
When Albanian is not used in public and official spaces, Albanians and Macedonians have fewer opportunities to communicate and collaborate. This affects:
Community Segregation – Albanians and Macedonians live and operate in separate environments.
Workplace Integration – Many Albanians face difficulties in state institutions due to language barriers.
Spread of Stereotypes and Mistrust – The lack of communication keeps communities divided and reinforces prejudices against each other.
Barriers in Education and Academic Development
Albanian students face challenges in Macedonian schools and universities, as many subjects are not offered in Albanian.
The lack of scientific and academic content in Albanian limits professional development opportunities for Albanians.
Albanian and Macedonian children are educated in separate school systems, preventing them from interacting and understanding each other from a young age.
The Structural Nature of the Language Issue
The restriction of the Albanian language in North Macedonia is not merely an administrative issue but a structural problem that affects interethnic relations at multiple levels. This analysis will focus on the impact of these restrictions on five key areas:
Social Integration
Politics and Stability
Economy and Labor Market
Education and Cultural Identity
Potential Future Tensions
Limited Use of Albanian and the Failure of Social Integration
One of the main consequences of restricting the use of Albanian is the isolation of Albanian and Macedonian communities from each other. This phenomenon worsens social divisions and contributes to the formation of a segmented society. Spatial Segregation:
Albanians and Macedonians often live in separate areas with minimal daily interaction. The absence of the Albanian language in public spaces such as state institutions, markets, and businesses reduces communication between communities and keeps them distant from one another.
Communication Barriers:
Albanians face difficulties in institutions where Albanian is not accepted, while Macedonians feel like outsiders in Albanian-majority areas where Macedonian is less commonly used. This creates a cultural gap and hinders cooperation.
Prejudices and Stereotypes:
The lack of interaction between the two communities reinforces negative perceptions of each other and fuels ethnic stereotypes.
Political Consequences and Interethnic Stability:
In North Macedonia, the issue of Albanian language use has always been a politicized topic, directly impacting the country’s stability. Macedonian nationalist parties use language as a tool to mobilize voters and create fear regarding the expansion of Albanian rights. This political strategy worsens interethnic relations.
Albanians view restrictions on their language as a denial of their equality as citizens. This increases feelings of injustice and can lead to protests or boycotts of state institutions.
Conflicts between Albanian and Macedonian political parties over language can deepen divisions in governance and slow down North Macedonia’s European integration process.
Economic Impact:
Language barriers have a significant effect on Albanians’ economic opportunities.
Albanians have less access to the state job market, as many positions require knowledge of Macedonian, while institutions fail to uphold the right to use Albanian.
Albanian businesses face limitations in accessing subsidies or state support due to bureaucratic language-related obstacles.
Albanian investors feel discouraged from developing projects in areas where Albanian is not respected.
Education System:
The education system is divided along ethnic lines, with separate schools for Albanians and Macedonians. This separation causes new generations to grow up without knowing each other, further reinforcing interethnic divisions.
The lack of quality textbooks and teaching materials in Albanian creates academic disadvantages for Albanian students.
State universities lack programs in Albanian, limiting the academic and professional advancement of Albanian students.
The Need for a Sustainable Solution:
To prevent interethnic conflicts and build a stable and equal society, North Macedonia must take concrete steps to ensure the full implementation of the Law on the Use of Languages and promote an inclusive society.
Necessary Measures:
Strengthening legal mechanisms for enforcing the Law on the Use of Languages and imposing penalties on institutions that do not comply.
Integrating the use of Albanian at all levels of state and local administration to ensure Albanians receive services in their language.
Promoting interaction between communities through joint educational programs where Albanian and Macedonian children can learn each other’s language and culture.
Developing strategies to improve Albanian representation in the labor market and public sector by eliminating linguistic discrimination.
Encouraging interethnic dialogue through academic institutions, civil society organizations, and the media to reduce tensions and foster cooperation.
If these measures are not taken seriously, the risk of escalating interethnic crises will remain high, threatening North Macedonia’s stability and European prospects.
Strengthening Legal Mechanisms for Implementing the Law on the Use of Languages:
Problem:
Although the Law on the Use of Languages has been passed, its implementation remains limited due to a lack of effective monitoring mechanisms and penalties for non-compliant institutions. Many public and state institutions fail to properly enforce the law, creating barriers for Albanians in accessing services in their language.
Possible Solutions:
Establishing an independent monitoring body, such as a State Commission for Language Implementation, to oversee and report on institutions that do not comply with the law.
Imposing administrative and financial penalties on state institutions that fail to provide services in Albanian as required by law.
Increasing transparency in law enforcement by publishing periodic reports on progress or violations in administration and various public sectors.
Training state employees to use Albanian in official communication to avoid service delays or denials for Albanian citizens.
Integration of the Albanian Language in State and Local Administration:
Problem: Promoting Linguistic and Interethnic Integration in North Macedonia
Integration of the Albanian Language in State and Local Administration
In many cases, Albanians face difficulties when accessing services in their language in state and local institutions. In some municipalities and institutions, official documents and communications are only available in Macedonian, creating barriers for Albanian citizens.
Ensuring the use of Albanian at all levels of state and local administration, guaranteeing that every official document, form, or public announcement is also available in Albanian.
Providing automatic and professional translation services in every public institution to prevent linguistic discrimination and ensure equal access to services.
Increasing the number of Albanian employees in the administration, especially in institutions where Albanians represent a significant portion of the population.
Encouraging language integration programs in administration, where all state institution employees receive training to provide equal services to both Albanian and Macedonian citizens.
Strict Implementation of the Law on Language Use
The use of Albanian in administration is a right guaranteed by law, but in practice, its implementation still faces challenges. Albanians often struggle to receive services in their language, especially in central institutions.
Including Albanian in all official documents, forms, and public announcements to ensure equal access to information for all citizens.
Strict enforcement of the Law on Language Use, making Albanian present in all state and local institutions without bureaucratic delays or obstacles.
Recruiting Albanian administrative staff in public sectors to guarantee the provision of services in Albanian without difficulties.
Penalizing institutions that do not comply with the law to prevent linguistic discrimination and ensure fair access for all citizens.
Promoting Interethnic Interaction through Educational Programs
Interaction between the Albanian and Macedonian communities is essential for building a stable and conflict-free society. Education plays a key role in fostering mutual understanding and reducing prejudice.
Developing joint educational programs where Albanian and Macedonian children have the opportunity to learn each other’s language and culture. This will help eliminate divisions and foster better communication.
Introducing the Albanian language into the school curriculum for Macedonian students and vice versa, so that both communities understand and respect each other.
Creating joint educational and cultural activities, such as school exchanges and university cooperation programs, to promote diversity and harmony between communities.
Developing bilingual communication platforms to encourage the use of both Albanian and Macedonian in public and institutional spaces.
Encouraging Interethnic Dialogue through Academic Institutions, Civil Society Organizations, and Media
The Issue:
The lack of interethnic dialogue has contributed to tensions and misunderstandings between Albanians and Macedonians. Academic institutions, civil society organizations, and media play a crucial role in promoting understanding and cooperation.
Establishing platforms for dialogue between different ethnic groups, where members of the Albanian and Macedonian communities can discuss common issues and share their experiences.
Organizing joint cultural and educational activities, such as seminars, workshops, and conferences that promote diversity and dialogue between communities.
Encouraging cooperation between academic institutions and civil society organizations to develop projects that address interethnic problems and promote shared education.
Increasing the representation of both the Albanian and Macedonian communities in the media, ensuring that voices from both groups are heard and represented fairly and equally.
Developing Clear Policies for the Employment of Albanians
Employment Policies:
Drafting policies that promote the representation of Albanians in public administration and the private sector, setting specific quotas for Albanian employment in various institutions.
Training System:
Developing training programs focused on skills needed for the labor market, including courses in human resource management, technology, and languages.
Eliminating Linguistic Discrimination
Implementation of the Law on Language Use:
Ensuring full enforcement of the Law on Language Use across all levels of administration and public services, making Albanian present in official documents, procedures, and communication with citizens.
Training for Administrative Staff:
Providing training for administrative staff and public employees to ensure effective communication with Albanian citizens using the Albanian language.
Encouraging Cooperation with the Private Sector
Promoting collaboration between the government and the private sector to ensure employment opportunities and professional development for Albanians, while also fostering bilingualism and cultural integration in the workplace. Promoting Linguistic and Interethnic Integration in North Macedonia
Integration of the Albanian Language in State and Local Administration
Albanians often face difficulties when accessing services in their language in state and local institutions. In some municipalities and institutions, official documents and communications are only available in Macedonian, creating barriers for Albanian citizens.
Ensuring the use of Albanian at all levels of state and local administration, guaranteeing that every official document, form, or public announcement is also available in Albanian.
Providing automatic and professional translation services in every public institution to prevent linguistic discrimination and ensure equal access to services.
Increasing the number of Albanian employees in the administration, especially in institutions where Albanians represent a significant portion of the population.
Encouraging language integration programs in administration, where all state institution employees receive training to provide equal services to both Albanian and Macedonian citizens.
Strict Implementation of the Law on Language Use
The use of Albanian in administration is a right guaranteed by law, but in practice, its implementation still faces challenges. Albanians often struggle to receive services in their language, especially in central institutions.
Including Albanian in all official documents, forms, and public announcements to ensure equal access to information for all citizens.
Strict enforcement of the Law on Language Use, making Albanian present in all state and local institutions without bureaucratic delays or obstacles.
Recruiting Albanian administrative staff in public sectors to guarantee the provision of services in Albanian without difficulties.
Penalizing institutions that do not comply with the law to prevent linguistic discrimination and ensure fair access for all citizens.
Promoting Interethnic Interaction through Educational Programs
Interaction between the Albanian and Macedonian communities is essential for building a stable and conflict-free society. Education plays a key role in fostering mutual understanding and reducing prejudice.
Developing joint educational programs where Albanian and Macedonian children have the opportunity to learn each other’s language and culture. This will help eliminate divisions and foster better communication.
Introducing the Albanian language into the school curriculum for Macedonian students and vice versa, so that both communities understand and respect each other.
Creating joint educational and cultural activities, such as school exchanges and university cooperation programs, to promote diversity and harmony between communities.
Developing bilingual communication platforms to encourage the use of both Albanian and Macedonian in public and institutional spaces.
Encouraging Interethnic Dialogue through Academic Institutions, Civil Society Organizations, and Media
The Issue:
The lack of interethnic dialogue has contributed to tensions and misunderstandings between Albanians and Macedonians. Academic institutions, civil society organizations, and media play a crucial role in promoting understanding and cooperation.
Establishing platforms for dialogue between different ethnic groups, where members of the Albanian and Macedonian communities can discuss common issues and share their experiences.
Organizing joint cultural and educational activities, such as seminars, workshops, and conferences that promote diversity and dialogue between communities.
Encouraging cooperation between academic institutions and civil society organizations to develop projects that address interethnic problems and promote shared education.
Increasing the representation of both the Albanian and Macedonian communities in the media, ensuring that voices from both groups are heard and represented fairly and equally.
Developing Clear Policies for the Employment of Albanians
Employment Policies:
Drafting policies that promote the representation of Albanians in public administration and the private sector, setting specific quotas for Albanian employment in various institutions.
Training System:
Developing training programs focused on skills needed for the labor market, including courses in human resource management, technology, and languages.
Eliminating Linguistic Discrimination
Implementation of the Law on Language Use:
Ensuring full enforcement of the Law on Language Use across all levels of administration and public services, making Albanian present in official documents, procedures, and communication with citizens.
Training for Administrative Staff:
Providing training for administrative staff and public employees to ensure effective communication with Albanian citizens using the Albanian language.
Encouraging Cooperation with the Private Sector
Promoting collaboration between the government and the private sector to ensure employment opportunities and professional development for Albanians, while also fostering bilingualism and cultural integration in the workplace. With such an approach, Albanians in North Macedonia will be able to face their challenges and create a brighter future for future generations, ensuring that the Albanian language remains an essential and recognized element of their national identity.
If Mickoski, as the leader of the Macedonian opposition, continues to refuse to recognize and respect the linguistic rights of Albanians in North Macedonia, there is a risk of further interethnic tensions. These tensions could manifest in several ways:
1. Political Tensions
Protests and Activism: Albanians may organize protests and activities to demand the implementation of their linguistic rights. These protests could lead to tensions with other ethnic groups.
Clashes with Institutions: The prohibition of the Albanian language in public institutions could provoke strong reactions from Albanians, leading to confrontations with authorities.
2. Deterioration of Interethnic Relations
Rise of Nationalism: The refusal to recognize the Albanian language could strengthen nationalist sentiments on both sides, increasing divisions and interethnic tensions.
Discrimination and Prejudice: The insufficient recognition of the Albanian language could lead to systematic discrimination and the exclusion of Albanians from important positions in administration and public services.
3. Risks to Regional Stability
Social Instability: Increasing interethnic tensions could create an atmosphere of insecurity and fear in society, endangering social stability.
Possibility of Armed Conflicts: In extreme scenarios, if tensions escalate and are not properly managed, violent clashes between ethnic groups could occur.
Conclusion
To prevent these risks, it is essential that political leaders engage in constructive dialogue and respect the rights of all citizens. An open and honest approach to discussing language and identity issues is key to maintaining peace and stability in North Macedonia.
How to Change Their Minds?
To help Mickoski and other political leaders change their stance on the linguistic rights of Albanians, several strategic steps can be taken:
1. Engagement in Dialogue
Meetings and Discussions: Regular meetings should be organized with political leaders, including Mickoski, to discuss the importance of respecting linguistic rights and their impact on the country’s stability.
Encouraging Interethnic Dialogue: Platforms should be created for interethnic dialogue, involving representatives from all ethnic groups to discuss and address concerns from each side.
2. Raising Public Awareness
Information Campaigns: Campaigns should be developed to educate the public and political leaders on the importance of the Albanian language and its positive impact on social cohesion.
Studies and Statistics: Presenting studies and statistics showing that respecting linguistic rights contributes to economic and social stability.
3. Community Mobilization
Organizing Peaceful Protests: Peaceful protests should be organized to demand respect for the Albanian language, attracting media and public attention.
Increasing Civil Activism: Encouraging activism through non-governmental organizations and civil society groups to put pressure on political leaders.
4. Participation in the Political Process
Engagement in Elections: Albanians should actively participate in elections and support candidates who commit to respecting and promoting Albanian linguistic rights.
Forming Coalitions: Political parties that defend linguistic rights should create alliances to strengthen their influence in decision-making.
5. Lobbying in International Institutions
Engagement with International Organizations: Lobbying international organizations and embassies to highlight the importance of respecting linguistic rights and seek support for reforms.
Documenting Violations: Collecting and documenting cases of linguistic rights violations to present them to international institutions.
These steps can help change the mindset of political leaders, creating an environment where the Albanian language is respected and promoted as a fundamental element of national identity. It is important for this process to be sustainable and involve all parties in building a more equal and peaceful society.
Historical Tensions
Past Clashes: If historical problems and past tensions are not addressed, they may resurface in new forms, including interethnic conflicts.
Discriminatory Policies
Lack of Representation: If Albanians continue to feel marginalized and discriminated against in terms of language and their rights, this can create a sense of injustice and frustration, potentially leading to conflicts.
Community Reactions
Group Mobilization: If Albanians mobilize to protest for their linguistic rights and the government’s response is repressive, this could lead to tensions and clashes with Macedonian groups.
Lack of Dialogue
Failure to engage in meaningful dialogue will only escalate tensions and make it harder to find sustainable solutions.
Failure of Dialogue
If there is no effective dialogue between ethnic communities to address mutual concerns, feelings of distrust and tensions may increase, making clashes more likely.
Propaganda and Discrimination
Divisive Rhetoric: A rhetoric that encourages ethnic division and discrimination can escalate tensions and fuel conflicts.
Preventing Clashes
To avoid interethnic conflicts, it is crucial to take proactive measures, such as:
Promoting Interethnic Dialogue: Encouraging constructive dialogue between communities to address mutual concerns and promote understanding.
Education on Diversity: Developing educational programs that foster respect and understanding of cultural and ethnic diversity.
Law Enforcement: Strengthening laws that protect linguistic rights and fostering an environment where all ethnic groups feel respected and included.
Albania’s Role in Protecting Albanian Rights in North Macedonia
As a country with strong cultural and historical ties to Albanians in North Macedonia, Albania has a significant role in advocating for their rights.
Active Diplomacy
Engagement in International Institutions: Albania can actively engage with international organizations such as the UN and the Council of Europe to denounce violations of Albanian rights in North Macedonia and push for the implementation of laws that protect their language and culture.
Support for Albanian Organizations: Albania can provide financial and logistical support to Albanian organizations working for human rights and the promotion of the Albanian language in North Macedonia.
Raising Awareness: Launching awareness campaigns in Albania and internationally to highlight the situation of Albanians in North Macedonia and mobilize support for their rights.
Strengthening Cultural Ties: Promoting cultural relations between Albania and Albanians in North Macedonia through cultural, artistic, and educational activities that emphasize the Albanian identity and the importance of the Albanian language.
Dialogue with the Government of North Macedonia: Engaging in negotiations and agreements with the Macedonian government to ensure that Albanian rights, including the use of the Albanian language, are respected and protected.
Albania has a crucial responsibility in protecting the rights of Albanians in North Macedonia. This requires a continuous commitment to ensuring that Albanians there have full rights and do not face discrimination. A clear and consistent policy that promotes tolerance, understanding, and interethnic cooperation is essential for peace and stability in the region.
Ali Ahmeti’s Role in Resolving the Albanian Language Issue in North Macedonia
Ali Ahmeti, as the leader of the Democratic Union for Integration (DUI) and a key figure in Albanian politics in North Macedonia, has played a significant role in advancing Albanian rights, including the use of the Albanian language. His contribution to this issue can be analyzed from several perspectives:
Contribution to the Legalization of the Albanian Language
Ali Ahmeti and DUI played a crucial role in the adoption of the Law on the Use of Languages in 2018, which expanded the official use of Albanian in state institutions.
His efforts led to constitutional changes after the 2001 Ohrid Agreement, officially recognizing Albanian as an official language alongside Macedonian at the central level and in municipalities with over 20% Albanian population.
Political Pressure on Macedonian Governments
During government formation negotiations, DUI has used its key position to demand more rights for Albanians, including strengthening the use of Albanian.
Under Zaev’s government, DUI pushed for the adoption of the Language Law, despite opposition from the Macedonian opposition and tensions caused by President Ivanov’s refusal to sign it.
Challenges and Criticism of His Role
Compromise Accusations: Some critics accuse Ahmeti of making too many compromises with Macedonian parties and failing to fully implement the law in practice.
Non-Implementation of the Language Law: Despite the law’s approval, implementation in many public institutions remains incomplete, causing dissatisfaction among the Albanian community.
Relations with Mickoski and VMRO-DPMNE: With the return of VMRO-DPMNE to power, there are concerns that the Language Law could be repealed or not implemented.
What Role Can He Play Now?
In the current situation, Ali Ahmeti can:
Maintain political and institutional pressure to ensure that the use of Albanian is not revoked or restricted.
Engage in international diplomacy to secure support from international actors in preserving Albanian rights.
Mobilize Albanian voters to strengthen the positions of Albanian parties and prevent any attempt to limit acquired rights. Ali Ahmeti’s Role in Advancing Albanian Rights in North Macedonia: The Challenge of Implementing the Language Law
Ali Ahmeti has played a historic role in advancing the rights of Albanians in North Macedonia, but the real challenge remains the effective implementation of the Law on Languages. If the new government attempts to restrict the use of Albanian, he and the Albanian parties will need to take clear political and diplomatic steps to protect the rights of the Albanian community.
Ali Ahmeti’s Contribution to the Legalization of the Albanian Language in North Macedonia
Ali Ahmeti has been a key figure in advancing the use of the Albanian language in North Macedonia, playing a crucial role in its legalization and institutionalization. His contribution can be divided into several key phases:
1. Role in the Ohrid Agreement (2001)
Following the 2001 conflict, Ali Ahmeti and the National Liberation Army (NLA) engaged in negotiations with the Macedonian government, leading to the Ohrid Agreement.
This agreement recognized Albanian as an official language in municipalities where Albanians made up more than 20% of the population, marking the first step towards linguistic equality.
2. Efforts for the Law on the Use of Languages (2018)
As the leader of the Democratic Union for Integration (DUI), Ahmeti worked to pass the Law on the Use of Languages, which was approved on January 11, 2018, in the North Macedonian Parliament.
This law expanded the use of Albanian, making it an official state language alongside Macedonian, applying to institutions such as:
The government and parliament
The state administration
Courts and public institutions
Official documents and communication with Albanian citizens
3. Facing Opposition
Macedonian President Gjorge Ivanov refused to sign the law, arguing that it threatened state unity.
On March 14, 2018, the law was re-voted in parliament with the support of the parliamentary majority, where DUI played a decisive role.
Finally, the Speaker of Parliament, Talat Xhaferi, declared the law adopted, bypassing Ivanov’s opposition.
Implementation and Current Challenges
Despite the law’s approval, its implementation has faced administrative and political obstacles, especially under the new government led by VMRO-DPMNE and Hristijan Mickoski.
Ahmeti has called for the law’s enforcement, but Macedonian institutions often neglect its application.
The main challenge today is pressuring the government to uphold and fully implement the law.
Current Situation: Risks to the Albanian Language and Ali Ahmeti’s Role
Following the recent elections in North Macedonia and the victory of VMRO-DPMNE, led by Hristijan Mickoski, the status of the Albanian language has entered a phase of uncertainty. Mickoski’s party and its allies have expressed opposition to the Law on the Use of Languages, raising concerns that efforts may be made to limit or repeal the use of Albanian in state institutions.
1. The Risk from the New VMRO-DPMNE Government
Mickoski and his party have opposed the expansion of the Albanian language’s use, calling it a “hidden federalization” of the state.
Potential legal changes: If VMRO-DPMNE attempts to amend or restrict the Law on the Use of Languages, interethnic relations will deteriorate, leading to political tensions.
Government coalition stance: If the Macedonian government’s coalition partners do not support the law, there could be attempts to modify or selectively enforce it.
2. Ali Ahmeti and DUI’s Role in the New Situation
A. Political and Institutional Pressure
Ahmeti and DUI can use their parliamentary representatives to block any attempt to amend the law.
They can apply pressure on international institutions to intervene if language rights are violated.
Strengthening cooperation with other Albanian parties to form a strong front against any moves that undermine the status of Albanian.
B. Mobilizing the Albanian Community
Ahmeti and DUI can organize peaceful protests to demonstrate that Albanians will not allow their rights to be restricted.
Engaging civil society and the media to raise awareness and ensure the issue remains in the public and political discourse.
C. International Engagement
Lobbying the EU and the US: Ahmeti and other Albanian leaders can seek international guarantees for the enforcement of the Language Law.
Pressuring the Macedonian government through international organizations such as the OSCE and the Council of Europe, which have previously supported Albanian rights.
3. What Could Happen? Three Main Scenarios
Scenario 1: VMRO-DPMNE Implements the Law but in a Limited Manner
In this case, Albanian would remain official, but its application would be undermined through administrative delays and non-implementation.
Albanians would face difficulties accessing services in their language.
Scenario 2: Attempt to Repeal the Law on the Albanian Language
If Mickoski and VMRO-DPMNE attempt to amend the law, major protests and political clashes are expected.
DUI and other Albanian parties would strongly oppose such efforts. Albanians will use all political and legal means to stop this.
Scenario 3: Upholding the Law with International Guarantees
In this case, international pressure and the role of the EU and the US will force the new government to respect the law and avoid creating new interethnic tensions.
What Should Albanians Do in This Situation?
Remain politically united and prevent divisions among Albanian parties.
Actively participate in protests and reactions against any attempt to restrict the Albanian language.
Exert pressure on the government and institutions through civil organizations, media, and international lobbying.
The situation of the Albanian language in North Macedonia is at a critical moment. Ali Ahmeti and the Democratic Union for Integration (DUI) play a key role in protecting the Law on the Use of Languages, but the greatest challenge remains the actual implementation of this law in administration and institutions. If the new Macedonian government attempts to restrict the use of Albanian, this will lead to a political and interethnic crisis. Therefore, the engagement of all Albanians is essential to protect this hard-won right.
The Role of National Media and Media Activism in Defending the Albanian Language in North Macedonia
In a situation where the use of the Albanian language in North Macedonia is at risk, national media and media activism play a crucial role in informing, mobilizing, and applying political pressure to protect the rights of Albanians.
Strategies of National Media for Defending the Albanian Language
A. Public Awareness and Development of Public Debate
Special programs on Albanian television channels and news portals addressing the situation of the Albanian language in North Macedonia.
Interviews with politicians, academics, and activists to highlight the consequences of restricting the Albanian language.
Continuous reporting on the implementation or violation of the Law on the Use of Languages, exposing any case of discrimination.
B. Pressure on the Government and Institutions
The media should closely monitor and report any actions of the VMRO-DPMNE government that violate the linguistic rights of Albanians.
Publishing analyses and studies demonstrating the importance of the Albanian language for the stability of North Macedonia.
Exposing officials and institutions that fail to implement the law, putting them under public scrutiny and pressure for action.
C. Social Media Activation and International Awareness
Utilizing platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube to inform Albanians in the region and diaspora about developments.
Creating an online campaign with international hashtags like #DefendAlbanian #MakeAlbanianOfficial #Don’tTouchAlbanian.
Engaging influencers and prominent Albanian figures to spread the message.
The Role of National Resistance – Media and Active Response Strategies
If the new government of North Macedonia attempts to restrict the use of the Albanian language, Albanians must organize a strong national resistance, which may include the following key steps:
A. Protests and Demonstrations
Organizing mass protests in Skopje, Tetovo, Gostivar, Kumanovo, and other cities with an Albanian majority.
Engaging the Albanian diaspora in protests in front of Macedonian embassies in various European countries and the US.
Warning the government that tampering with the Albanian language will lead to political instability and interethnic crisis.
B. Civil Disobedience and Pressure on Institutions
If Albanians feel discriminated against, they can refuse to cooperate with institutions that do not implement the law on the Albanian language.
Boycotting official documents and state services that are not provided in Albanian.
Refusing to submit forms and documents that are only in Macedonian.
C. Intervention of Albania and Kosovo on This Issue
The governments of Albania and Kosovo should intervene diplomatically, putting pressure on the Macedonian government not to violate the rights of Albanians.
Engaging the EU and the US to monitor the situation and prevent any attempts at discrimination.
Utilizing Albanian institutions such as the Academy of Sciences, Universities, and Cultural Associations to raise international awareness.
What Will Happen If There Is No Reaction?
If Albanians do not take action and the media does not exert pressure, the following dangerous scenarios may occur:
The gradual restriction of the use of Albanian in administration and public institutions.
The elimination of Albanian from official documents and institutional signs.
Increased discrimination against Albanians in both the public and private sectors.
Worsening interethnic relations and the potential for new political and social tensions.
Defending the Albanian language in North Macedonia is not just a local issue but a national cause that requires a strong response from all Albanians. The national media must be at the forefront of this battle, informing the public, exposing violations, and organizing international campaigns. On the other hand, Albanians must remain united, organize protests, exert political and diplomatic pressure, and defend their rights using every possible democratic means. If the Macedonian government attempts to alter the Law on Languages, Albanians must react strongly to prevent the rollback of a right that was achieved through great sacrifices.
Conclusion
The status of the Albanian language in North Macedonia is a critical issue that requires vigilance and immediate action from Albanians. Any attempt to restrict or modify the Law on the Use of Languages constitutes a direct attack on Albanians’ fundamental rights and could lead to interethnic tensions and political destabilization in the region.
In response to this challenge, Albanians must stand united and mobilize through political pressure, democratic protests, and international diplomacy. The Albanian media and national organizations must play a key role in informing and raising public awareness, while Albania and Kosovo should intervene to ensure the protection of Albanians’ rights in North Macedonia.
If the new Macedonian government attempts to limit the linguistic rights of Albanians, the reaction must be strong and well-organized, defending every inch of national achievements with determination and unity. The Albanian language is not merely an administrative issue but a national identity that cannot be altered or undermined.
