Imagine a new country emerging within the heart of Europe—a Muslim microstate smaller than the Vatican, nestled within the capital of Albania, Tirana. This newly proposed sovereign state, known as the Sovereign State of the Bektashi Order, could soon reshape Europe’s geopolitical and religious landscape. At just 0.11 square kilometers (or roughly 27 acres), this tiny state may become the smallest in the world, overtaking the Vatican’s 0.44 square kilometers.
What exactly is the Bektashi Order, and why is this country being formed? More importantly, why is Albania backing this ambitious and unprecedented project? This post explores the origins of this new state, the religious movement behind it, and the political motivations driving its creation.
What is the Sovereign State of the Bektashi Order?
The Sovereign State of the Bektashi Order will be a tiny, independent enclave located within Tirana, Albania’s capital. This unique microstate will serve as the world headquarters of the Bektashi Order, a Sufi Islamic sect with roots tracing back to the Ottoman Empire. Much like the Vatican, it will be a religious state governed by clerics, with Baba Mondi, the eighth Bektashi leader, acting as the head of state.
The country will have its own administration, passports (colored green in line with Islamic tradition), and official borders. Its capital, however, will remain connected to Albania in important ways: the new state will not have its own army, border patrol, or criminal courts. These essential services will remain under the control of Albania, ensuring cooperation between the two entities.
Location and Layout
The new state will be located in an area of Tirana that already serves as the headquarters of the Bektashi Order. The site includes key religious buildings, such as a library, archives, crypt, museum, and the Holy See of the Bektashi leadership. Surrounding these buildings are gardens, creating a serene and secluded enclave within the bustling Albanian capital.
Much like the Vatican, the Bektashi enclave will be small and focused on religious and administrative functions. It is being compared to the Vatican not only because of its tiny size but also due to the influence it could wield on a global scale in representing Bektashism, a branch of Islam often regarded for its tolerant and moderate views.
Who Are the Bektashi?
The Bektashi Order is a Sufi Islamic sect with roots going back to the 13th century within the Ottoman Empire. Originally part of the Sunni Islamic tradition, the Bektashi adopted elements of Shia Islam in the 16th century, particularly the veneration of Ali, the son-in-law of the Prophet Muhammad, and the Twelve Imams, key figures in Shia Islam. These beliefs are reflected in their symbols, including a 12-rayed star on their flag, symbolizing the Twelve Imams.
Historically, the Bektashi Order was closely tied to the Janissaries, the elite military corps of the Ottoman Empire. When the Janissaries were disbanded in 1826 by Sultan Mahmud II, the Bektashi faced persecution. After the fall of the Ottoman Empire, the Bektashi headquarters relocated to Albania, where it remains today.
Under Enver Hoxha’s Communist regime in Albania, the Bektashi faced further repression as religion was banned in 1967. Despite these challenges, the Bektashi survived and maintained a presence in Albania. Today, they represent 10% of Albania’s Muslim population, and around 5% of the total population, practicing a moderate and tolerant form of Islam.
Why is Albania Supporting the Creation of This New State?
The question arises: why is Albania, a predominantly Muslim country, so keen to support the creation of this microstate, which represents only a small percentage of its population?
The answer lies in Albania’s desire to project a message of religious tolerance. Prime Minister Edi Rama, a Catholic, sees the creation of the Bektashi state as a means of promoting moderate Islam and countering the global perception of Islamic extremism. He has described the Bektashi as a “treasure” of religious tolerance, one that should not be taken for granted. The creation of this microstate, he believes, will send a strong signal about the peaceful, tolerant nature of Islam as practiced by the Bektashi.
This aligns with Albania’s historical role. During Albania’s nationalist awakening in the 19th century, the Bektashi played a key part in uniting both Muslim and Christian communities against Ottoman rule. By supporting the creation of this microstate, Albania is fostering its legacy of religious diversity and tolerance.
Moreover, the new state will serve as a spiritual and administrative center for the Bektashi Order, enabling it to play a more prominent role on the world stage in promoting religious tolerance and countering radical ideologies.
Citizenship, Laws, and Governance
The Sovereign State of the Bektashi Order will be highly exclusive in terms of citizenship. Only clerics and administrative workers will be granted citizenship, following a model similar to the Vatican. The country will not have its own military or courts, and security will be maintained by a small secret service to handle any potential threats.
Unlike more conservative Islamic states, the laws of the Bektashi state will be relatively moderate. Alcohol consumption will be allowed, as demonstrated when Baba Mondi toasted with a glass of raki (a type of wine) during a celebratory gathering. The dress code will also be liberal, allowing women to dress as they choose—something rare in many Islamic countries.
Why a New Country?
The decision to create this new country stems from both religious and political motivations. The Bektashi seek sovereign status to protect their unique identity and expand their global influence, much like the Vatican. For Albania, this project is a diplomatic tool, showcasing the country’s commitment to religious tolerance and positioning it as a model for peaceful coexistence.
The creation of a Bektashi microstate will also serve to combat extremism, according to both Baba Mondi and Prime Minister Rama. By establishing a moderate, sovereign Islamic state in Europe, the Bektashi hope to show the world a different side of Islam—one that emphasizes peace, tolerance, and spiritual enlightenment.
What’s Next for the Sovereign State of the Bektashi Order?
Currently, a team of international lawyers is drafting the legal framework for the new state. Once completed, the Albanian Parliament will need to approve the legislation granting the Bektashi sovereign status. It remains to be seen whether other nations will officially recognize the state, but neighboring countries like Kosovo, North Macedonia, and potentially Bosnia may do so due to their Bektashi communities.
However, challenges remain. Some Sunni and Shia Muslim countries, like Iran, may not be as welcoming, viewing the Bektashi Order’s heterodox practices as heretical. On the other hand, nations like Saudi Arabia or the United Arab Emirates—both adversaries of Iran—could see value in recognizing this new state as a way to counter Iranian influence.
The Albanian Prime Minister acknowledges that the idea may seem radical to some, but he insists that this new microstate is a crucial step in promoting religious harmony. As he stated, “Maybe everyone will say this guy is crazy… The important thing is, crazy or not, to fight for good.”
