Ethnic Groups and Religions

Abstract

The population of Albania, in terms of its location and development as a transit country within the framework of the Balkan Peninsula, is distinguished for its ethnic variety and religious diversity.In terms of its ethnic structure, the population of Albania is clearly distinguished for its dominant Albanian population over other ethnic minorities. In all the areas of the country, the ethnic Albanian population predominates. In some areas, mainly in the South and Southeast of the country, there is a significant presence of other ethnic minorities. The ethnic minorities present in Albania are the Greek, Macedonian, and Montenegrin ethnic minorities, but also some other ethnic groups, such as Roma, Aromanians, Egyptians, etc.The religious structure of the Albanian population is also diverse and important to study. Various historical, political, and social factors have altered and enriched this structure over the centuries. There are currently five officially recognized religions in Albania: Muslims, Bektashis, Catholics, Orthodox, and Evangelicals.This ethnic and religious diversity of Albania should be treated as an important asset for the country, which needs to be recognized, explained, and studied continuously. The most important feature of all time has to do with the fact that different ethnic and religious groups coexist in harmony with each other even within very narrow geographical areas, and Albania can be taken as a very good example in this regard.KeywordsEthnic minoritiesEthnic structureReligionsReligious structure