TIRANA, April 14 – Presheva Valley Albanian National Council head Enkel Rexhepi raised serious concerns over institutional challenges facing Albanians in southern Serbia during the Fourth Diaspora Summit. He described the diaspora as a “vital national force” for identity, development, and international representation.
Speaking at a panel on diaspora and representative democracy, he said the diaspora plays multiple roles across Albanian communities. It preserves language and identity, supports economic growth, and strengthens global connections.
For Albanians in the Presheva Valley, he said the diaspora also provides support and hope. He stressed that local communities face persistent challenges in fundamental rights and institutional representation.
He then highlighted the issue of address deactivation. He described it as an administrative practice that reduces Albanian presence in official records. He said this process limits access to voting, property rights, and public services.
According to Rexhepi, the issue requires urgent institutional response. He warned that continued application of the measure would deepen inequality and exclusion.
He also raised concerns over non-recognition of diplomas. He said young graduates face unfair barriers when authorities refuse to recognise their qualifications. This, he added, blocks professional development and future prospects.
Turning to the economy, he said unemployment and difficult conditions drive continued emigration from the region. He linked economic hardship directly to demographic decline.
He also addressed previously signed agreements between Albanian representatives and Serbian institutions. He said authorities have not implemented any of those commitments in practice.
As a result, he said key sectors such as agriculture and education remain unsupported. He linked the lack of implementation to stalled development in the region.
In conclusion, Rexhepi called for stronger engagement from the diaspora and Albanian institutions. He urged action to protect rights, end address deactivation, recognise diplomas, and ensure equal economic support.
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