The proposed Sovereign State of the Bektashi Order is an interesting proposal for a microstate to be carved out within Tirana, Albania, at a site that is currently considered the World Headquarters of the Bektashis. When realized, it would constitute the smallest sovereign state in the world, much smaller than Vatican City, with an area of a mere 27 acres.
In this regard, the establishment of such a state was stressed by Albanian Prime Minister Edi Rama, who showed solidarity in words with the head of the Bektashi Order, Baba Mondi. The creation of the state is to foster religious tolerance and further improve positive views about Islam in Albania and outside its borders. Legislation to bring this microstate into being began in September 2024; the process would include the modification of the Albanian Constitution through a two-thirds vote in the Albanian Parliament.
The Bektashi Order is a Sufi order that originated in the 13th century and had constantly been persecuted and excluded from various Islamic groups. This might be the chance of this community’s elevation against radical forces. If recognized, citizenship would extend only to Bektashi clerics and officials, hence closely aligning with the Vatican City model of citizenship. Baba Mondi also insisted that the state would not maintain military forces or courts, applying a more liberal interpretation of Islam allowing alcohol consumption and personal freedom in dress.
Yet, this has been opposed by parts of the Albanian Muslim community on the basis of national unity and compatibility with the concept of a religious state that Bektashism brings in.
