Albania adopts IHRA definition of antisemitism

The Albanian parliament has endorsed the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance’s working definition of antisemitism, making the country one of the first Muslim-majority countries to adopt the definition.

The IHRA, an intergovernmental organization with 34 member countries, established an international consensus on a working definition of antisemitism.

“It is good news that we, the Albanians and the peoples of the Western Balkans, a region that has suffered more than any other part of the world, the consequences of ethno-centrist and religious-centrist views and attitudes, join this emancipatory action of contemporary civilization: the fight against antisemitism,” said Gramoz Ruci, the speaker of Albania’s parliament.

“All nations that throughout history have protected Jews from extermination and support them today against stigma have a right to be proud,” he said. “But we Albanians have more reasons to be proud, because Albania is the only country in Europe where all Jews were taken under protection and rescued during World War II. Our homeland, Albania, in difficult times has served as a substitute soil for Jews.”

related

Subscribe to EJC newsletter

Get EJC's bi-weekly newsletter, including the latest statements and news from the European Jewish communities, direct to your inbox.

European Jewish Congress will use the information you provide on this form to contact you. We will treat your information with respect and will not share it with others. By clicking Subscribe, you agree that we may process your information in accordance with these terms.

Statements

EJC statement on the one-year anniversary of the 7th October Hamas massacre

The European Jewish Congress reaffirms its full and unwavering support for the State of Israel and its people, including those still held captive in the Gaza Strip. We stand with our brothers and sisters in Israel as we mourn the victims of October 7th.