Εξευρωπαϊσμός και προστασία της ελληνικής μειονότητας στην Αλβανία και της αλβανικής μειονότητας στη Βόρεια Μακεδονία

Abstract

This study deals with the issue of the Europeanization of the Greek ethnic minority in Albania and the Albanian minority in North Macedonia and particularly the evolution of the status of the two ethnic minorities focusing on the prospect of future membership of the two countries in the EU. Methodology : Initially, there is a historical background for the two countries until the 1990’s and the collapse of communist regimes. Secondly, the concept of Europeanization and its criteria are examined and definitions are given for ethnic minorities as well as the institutional framework for their protection at European level. The same chapter examines the criteria for Europeanization particularly in relation to the protection of ethnic minorities. The issue of the Hungarian minority in Romania is analyzed as an example of a case of securing minority rights in the context of Romania’s accession in the EU. The fourth part of this study focuses on the two recent European Commission Reports on Albania and North Macedonia mostly examining specific chapters related to minority rights. The disadvantaged position of the Greek minority in Albania is pointed out in relation with the corresponding Albanian minority in North Macedonia, the position of which was significantly upgraded after the signing of Ochrid Agreement. Finally, conclusions are drawn about the future status of Greek minority in Albania in relation to the European course of the country.