Albania marks 27 June as the Day of Genocide against the Cham Albanians. The country remembers the events of 27 June 1944, when violence began against the Cham population. Historical accounts state that forces under Greek general Napoleon Zerva led attacks against civilians in the region of Çamëria.
The reports say that the violence displaced more than 30,000 Albanian Muslims and killed more than 3,000 people. They also describe intimidation against the Orthodox Albanian population in the region. Survivors report that armed groups killed community leaders in Paramythia after breaking earlier verbal agreements.
Authorities in Albania state that approximately 25,000 people from the Cham community were forced to flee and resettle in Albanian cities. The Albanian government officially recognizes 27 June as the Day of Genocide against the Cham Albanians.
Albania holds commemorative activities to mark the 82nd anniversary. Organizers launch “Cham Week” in Tirana with cultural and memorial events. They install the “I Love Çamëria” installation on the “Dëshmorët e Kombit” boulevard as a symbol of remembrance.
Parliament, in cooperation with the Patriotic Association “Çamëria,” organizes a commemorative event in Tirana. Deputies, researchers, community representatives, and public figures attend the ceremony. Participants discuss historical memory, justice, and cultural heritage.
Cham Week continues with additional events across the country. Organizers conclude the program with tributes at the “Trëndafilat e Çamërisë” memorial cemetery in Kllogjer, Sarandë, where remains of Cham Albanians are buried.
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