As part of the Shared Sacred Flourishing programme, a delegation of Religions for Peace Europe, comprising representatives of the European National Interreligious Bodies (ENIB), the European Council of Religious Leaders (ECRL), and other international partners, conducted a series of visits to Albania’s religious communities to gain first-hand insight into the country’s renowned model of interreligious harmony and cooperation.
The delegation was warmly received by the leaders of Albania’s religious communities, who presented the history, mission, and contributions of their respective institutions in fostering dialogue, mutual understanding, and social peace.
During the visits, the delegation met with H. Bujar Spahiu, Chairman of the Muslim Community of Albania; His Beatitude Archbishop Joan, Archbishop of the Autocephalous Orthodox Church of Albania; Fr. Zef Bisha, representative of the Catholic Church in Albania; H. Dede Edmond Brahimaj, World Leader of the Bektashi Community and Chairman of the Interreligious Council of Albania; and Pastor Erion Sylari, Chairman of the Evangelical Alliance of Albania.
The European delegation was led by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Genti Kruja, President of Religions for Peace Europe and Secretary General of the Interreligious Council of Albania (Religions for Peace Albania). Throughout the meetings, participants highlighted Albania’s model of interreligious coexistence, widely regarded as an inspiring example not only for the region but also for Europe and beyond. Discussions focused on contemporary challenges related to peacebuilding, educating younger generations, and the vital role of cooperation among religious communities in promoting human dignity, solidarity, and the common good.
The visits also provided an important opportunity for the exchange of experiences between representatives from the participating European countries and Albania’s religious institutions, further strengthening partnerships and reaffirming their shared commitment to advancing interreligious dialogue and cooperation across Europe.
These meetings took place within the framework of the Training of Trainers programme under the Shared Sacred Flourishing initiative, organized by Religions for Peace in Tirana with the participation of representatives from seven European countries. The programme aims to equip interfaith leaders and trainers with the knowledge, methodologies, and practical tools needed to promote interreligious cooperation, peacebuilding, and the development of inclusive communities.
