The Albanian Committee Against Violence, Racism and Intolerance

The following message was received by CCSI in April 1998

Tirana, February 12,1998

Dear Mr./ Mrs.,

The Albanian Committee Against Violence, Racism and Intolerance was founded one year ago, on January 23, 1997. In celebration of our first anniversary, we present you the annual report on the state of human rights in our country. Data for the entire year has been included. Of special note is the second half on 1997. We were able to do more work in this period as it followed the elections which took place earlier in the year.

As a result of that work, the Albanian Committee Against Violence, Racism and Intolerance came to the conclusion that the situation of the human rights in Albania is very concerning. The government authorities (representatives of the parties of the left coalition) are not able to create the kinds of institutions and attitudes found in a democratic country- i.e. an independent juridical system, respect of the freedom of the press, or the respect of the independence of the local governing. The inability to restore public order and confiscate guns is related to the lack of a clear government platform and the domination of a week professional will. With these facts and the observations in mind, we unfortunately conclude that Albanian democracy is still in a dangerous cross -road.

Our annual report of January 1997-98, includes cases of human rights violations and and the lack of a truly independent juridical system or press, the manifestation of intolerance in government policies, the attempts to narrow the autonomy of the local government as well as problems in relations between the state and the individual.

These are the reasons why many activists and groups of the human rights both inside Albania and abroad (including non-governmental organizations and political parties) have warned of an installation of an arrogant political system in this nation, one which would mirror the Belarussan government. As a result of this situation, our committee believes that the assistance and advice of the international organizations is indispensable.

With such assistance, the Albanian government would be able to understand clearly that real democracy is not possible if human rights, alternative opinions, the freedom of expression, and juridical independence are not respected.

Lastly, we believe and hope that this report will serve as the first step towards the establishment of a fruitful cooperation with our Committee in the future.

Sincerely-

Bledar Islami
Director

For a copy of the Albanian Committee Against Violence, Racism and Intolerance's 1997 Annual Report contact CCSI.

Last updated:    April 1998

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