Integration of Bosniak Community in Albania

Abstract

The occupation of Bosnia by Austro-Hungarian forces in 1878, forced many Bosniaks to migrate to other countries and some families from Bosnia settled in Albania. For more than 100 years, in the territory between Tirana and Durres called Shijak, live in full harmony with the natives, the Bosniak community. Bosniaks who live in Albania have preserved their culture and language. This community is fully integrated. This integration has occurred as a result of the ability of Bosniaks to adapt and because of the hospitality of Albanians. In this article I will argue that in societies with cultural diversity the integration of ethnic groups is an easier process compared to societies without cultural diversity. The integration of Bosniaks in Albania is an example of integration in a society with a high level of religious, cultural and subcultural diversity. In heterogeneous societies the integration of ethnic groups is an easier process unlike in homogeneous societies where the integration is more difficult as Herbert Gans argues that ‘’homogeneous societies do not provide cultural diversity '' and this makes integration a difficult process. Due to its cultural peculiarities, the Bosniak community that lives in Albania has the characteristics of a subculture. Integration and peaceful coexistence distributed to Bosniaks and Albanians is associating with the occurrence of diffusion. In this article through interviews, observation and sociological theories I will argue that the integration of ethnic groups in the Balkans is possible as well as preservation of their language and culture of origin, and the coexistence between Albanians and Bosniaks is a good example for the Balkans.