Albania-Serbia Relations in the Eyes of the Albanian Public 2015

Marrëdhëniet Shqipëri- Serbi në sytë e publikut Shqiptar 2015

ALBANIA-SERBIARINIA RELATIONS SHQIPTARE IN THE EYES 2011 OF THE ALBANIAN PUBLIC 2015 Mes besimit për të ardhmen dhe dyshimit për të tashmen! Alba Cela

Alba Çela Tidita Fshazi Arbjan Mazniku Geron Kamberi Zyra e Tiranës Jonida Smaja – koordinatore e FES Rruga “Abdi Toptani”, Torre Drin, kati 3 P.O. Box 1418 Tirana, Albania

Telefon: 00355 (0) 4 2250986 00355 (0) 4 2273306

Homepage: http://www.fes.org.al 51 Albania-Serbia relations in the eyes of the Albanian Public 2015

Albania-Serbia relations in the eyes of the Albanian Public 2015

Alba Cela

Tiranë, 2015 1 Albania-Serbia relations in the eyes of the Albanian Public 2015

Published by: Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung Office Tirana Rr. Abdi Toptani Torre Drin, Kati i 3-të Kutia Postare 1418 Tirane, ALBANIA

Author: Alba Cela

The opinions, findings, conclusions and recommendations expressed in this publishing are of the respective authors and do not necessarily represent those of Friedrich Ebert Foundation.

Friedrich Ebert Foundation’s publications cannot be used for commercial purposes without a prior written approval.

2 Albania-Serbia relations in the eyes of the Albanian Public 2015

Table of Contents

Introduction...... 5 1. Executive summary...... 9 2. Demographic data of the sample...... 12 3. Findings and analysis...... 15 3.1 General evaluations...... 21 3.2 Political relations and European context...... 21 3.3 Direct interaction and cultural exchange...... 33 3.4 Economic relations...... 37

3 Albania-Serbia relations in the eyes of the Albanian Public 2015

4 Albania-Serbia relations in the eyes of the Albanian Public 2015

INTRODUCTION

The soccer match between Serbia and Albania in October of 2014 where the famous drone incident unleashed violence towards the Albanian players has already entered the list of most famous sports events. It illustrates the already known logic that soccer still harbors the most aggressive nationalistic sentiments. Albania was initially condemned from UEFA as losing the game only to be rewarded later by a decision of the Court of Arbitration for Sport (CAS) which gave the victory to the Albanian team and stripped Serbia of three points. The rollercoaster of nationalistic rhetoric and soccer matches went on with the following game played in Albania where Serbia this time scored twice leaving Albanian fans mourning. The game had been highly securitized as the Albanians government took almost draconian security measures to make sure that not the smallest incident would happen to the Serbian tem while in Albania. A few days later winning a striking 3-0 match with Armenia, Albania secured its historical entry into the European Soccer Championship to be held next year in France.

However one would be mistaken to think that bilateral relations between Albania and Serbia recently are just bad. The incidents and events occurring during this year were not primarily negative and were not limited to the sports events. Albanian and Serbian Prime Minsters involved as main players in the Berlin and Vienna summits have flanked Chancellor Merkel in regional and EU events displaying unusual potential for dialogue and even camaraderie. Youth exchanges which will lead to a regional youth center coordinated both in Tirana and Belgrade have produced some positive media

5 Albania-Serbia relations in the eyes of the Albanian Public 2015 coverage and warm social reaction after so much negativity that poured in TV s and newspapers in 2014.

It is an important step for respective governments to take such a commitment of normalizing bilateral relations in the face of difficult pasts. However for the effort to be successful more society segments need to be involved. Much more needs to be done with the media which often perpetuates myths and controversial topics despite their relevant lack of importance for current challenges faced by both countries.

Albania and Serbia share a difficult historic baggage. The dissolution of Yugoslavia and conflict in Kosovo and the subsequent independence of Kosova have been a powerful rollercoaster for the two countries which claim to be home-seat to the largest ethnic groups in the Balkans. However even between Serbia and Kosova some signs of normalization due to the EU sponsored dialogue are starting to materialize beyond symbolical handshakes and right into important bilateral deals.

Most importantly collaboration projects between some actors which have known each other for a longer time and which have found ways to cooperate in the past despite differences have matured into more serious and sustainable joint initiatives.

Civil society organizations, have once again taken the lead to strengthen their bonds and include other actors in the hope that the maxim “to know each other is to stop hating each” other will work. In this context the Albanian Institute for International Studies and the Forum for International Relations of the European Movement of Serbia have joined hands in establishing the first joint Centre for Albanian-Serbian relations to promote the normalization of bilateral relations, encourage cooperation and interaction among youth, media and business community and keep the integration impetus

6 Albania-Serbia relations in the eyes of the Albanian Public 2015 for better regional cooperation strong.

This survey, which has also served to launch our center, is the first step in assessing the current state of relations as perceived by citizens of Albania. The photography of citizens’ perceptions is valuable not only as a window to more information about evaluations, myths and misunderstandings but also as a way to measure what expectations about the future of these relations are. Knowing the public opinion pulse and the general level of support for better relations (or lack of thereof) will assist decision makers and policy makers in designing the most effective course for foreign policy, collaboration projects and agreements in the field of economic and cultural cooperation. However the survey is intended also as a tool for other entities such as civil society and cultural actors to seek ways in which to expand the possibilities to interact.

The results of the survey which you can access in this publication portray a lot of positive potential for improvement of the bilateral relations more likely starting with the ‘easy parts’: cultural cooperation and getting to know more about each other. Most important citizens seem fully aware of the importance that these relations have for the future of the entire region as well as for the European integration project that the region also shares.

The Albanian Institute for International Studies hopes that the publication will serve the best interest of those who are working for the normalization of the relations between Albania and Serbia and their development into fully fledged good neighborly relations for a common future within the EU.

7 Albania-Serbia relations in the eyes of the Albanian Public 2015

Notes about survey:

This survey was carried out in 2014 with 1200 Albanian citizens from all the 12 administrative regions of Albania. The method employed was face-to-face interviews.

Data about the profile of the respondents can be found in the section ‘Demographic data of the sample’.

8 Albania-Serbia relations in the eyes of the Albanian Public 2015

1. Executive summary

• The majority of Albanian citizens believe that bilateral relations between Albania and Serbia are normal, with answers choosing this option at around 46 percent, followed by a second group that believes relations are bad or very bad at 34 percent. A smaller group of 16 percent believes the relations are good or really good. • The group of people who believe relations between governments are normal is higher at 55 percent than those who believe relations between respective peoples, Serb and Albanian citizens, are normal at 42.5 percent. • A third of all respondents (67.4 percent) believe Albanian- Serbian relations are important. 86 percent of Albanians, the overwhelming majority, believe that relations between Albania and Serbia are key to the stability and security in the entire region of the Balkans • Most Albanians expect that relations with Serbia will improve in the future while a third does not think they will change. 50 percent of Albanians believe the countries are ready to build a friendly relation while 30 percent disagree. • Only 5 percent of Albanians say that Serbia constitutes a threat to Albania. More than 60 percent of citizens do not feel any country to be a threat to Albania. • 37.4 percent of Albanians believe their government should pay considerable attention to the relation with Serbia while half of

9 Albania-Serbia relations in the eyes of the Albanian Public 2015

the sample follows with saying it should pay adequate or average attention. • The overwhelming majority of Albanians, around 90 percent believe that Albania and Serbia should improve relations for their own sake, a percentage much larger than those who assess that the improvement of relations should happen per request of Brussels and Berlin. More than 60 percent of Albanians also say that the two countries should develop a relation despite the relation of Kosova with Serbia. • Albanians consider the ‘Historical Hostility between the two nations’ and the past ‘oppression of Kosovo Albanians and criminal heritage of the Milosevic regime in Kosovo’ as the two key major obstacles in developing a bilateral relation. More than 80 percent of them in each case have mentioned these issues as first or second most important factors to be overcome in order to improve relations. Other obstacles which are mentioned by the respondents but placed as less relevant are ‘Lack of communication for a long time between citizens of Serbia and Albania’ and the ‘level of economic relations between both countries and societies.’ About 41 percent and 13 percent of the answers place the two factors (respectively) as standing issues in the third place of importance. • Only 17 percent of Albanians have ever travelled to Serbia, a fourth of this have been there only transiting. • Only 18 percent of Albanians have read books from Serbian authors while 30 percent have watched movies from well-known Serbian directors. • The majority of Albanians, slightly over 80 percent, are in favor of having more joint cultural events with Serbia. • Half of the sample responded that Albania and Serbia have 10 Albania-Serbia relations in the eyes of the Albanian Public 2015

normal economic relations while 21 percent said the economic relations were either good or very good. 12 percent of respondents claimed economic relations between the two countries were bad or very bad. • Most Albanian citizens don’t know what Albania imports from Serbia while a large group, about a third of the sample, claim the imports are mainly wheat and flour. 60 percent of Albanians believe their country is a touristic destination for Serbian people.

11 Albania-Serbia relations in the eyes of the Albanian Public 2015

2. Demographic data of the sample

Gender statistics reveal that 50.8% of the people who took this surveyDemo gareraphic males data and of the 48.7% samp leof them, females, while 0.5% preferred toGender not answer statistics this rev equestional that 50.8 at% all.of the people who took this survey are males and 48.7% of them, females, while 0.5% preferred to not answer this question at all. Gender Gender Demographic data of the sample Gender statistics reveal that 50.8% of the people who took this survey are males and 48.7% of DK/NA .5 them, females, while 0.5% preferred to not answer this question at all. Female 48.7 Percent Gender Male 50.8

010 20 30 40 50 60 .5 DK/NA Female 48.7 Percent AsAs for for thethe ageage group groupss of theof peothep lepeople who too whok this took surve thisy: 30.1% survey: of them 30.1% belon gof to the 35-59 age groupMale which marks the highest frequency of survey-take50.8 rrs. With 28.1% participation, people themwho belong belong to to the the a g35-59e group age of 2 group5-34 are which ranked marks as the stheecond highest age-group. frequency Whereas people who ofb survey-takers.elong to01 the age 0gr Withoup of20 28.1% 18-2430 are participation, ranked40 the third 50 people with60 only who 27.0 belong% of them to the taking this survey.

ageThe group lowest offrequenc 25-34y is are seen ranked in the 60 as  theage groupsecond wit hage-group. only 14.8% ofWhereas people who participated. Aspeople for th ewho age groupbelongs of tothe the peo ageple who group too kof this 18-24 surve arey: 30.1% ranked of t thehem thirdbelon gwith to the 35-59 age groupAg ew ghroichups marks the highest frequency of survey-takerrs. With 28.1% participation, people whoonly bel 27.0%ong to theof athemge group taking of 25-34 this are survey. ranked Theas the lowest second age-frequencygroup. Whe is seenreas people who 40 30.1 % binelong the to60 the  age age gr27.0o groupup % of 18-24 with are only28.1 ranked % 14.8% the third of peoplewith only who 27.0 participated.% of them taking this survey. 30 The lowest frequency is seen in the 60  age group with only 14.8% of people who participated. Age20 groups 14.8 % Age 10groups

40 0 30.1 % 18-2427.0 years % old 25-3428.1 years % old 35-59 years old 60- > years old 30 20 Percent 14.8 %

10 0The collection of data on the survey-takers’ academic background shows that 47.0% of them are universit18-24y yearsgraduates. old People25-34 ywhearso oldgraduated35-59 high-school years old are 60-ranked > years the old second after the university graduates, with 35.3% of them. The percentage of postgraduates taking this survey is Percent 8.3. 7.2% of the people who participated in our survey had only finished secondary school and

0.2%12 of them refused to answer. Whereas the lowest frequency of survey-takers is marked on Theuneduca collectionted peopleof data wonith the only sur v0.6ey-takers’% of them academic taking this background survey and sh ows1.3% that having 47.0% finished of the monl arey the universitprimaryy graduates. school. People who graduated high-school are ranked the second after the university graduates, with 35.3% of them. The percentage of postgraduates taking this survey is 8.3.E 7.2ducati% ofon the level peo ple who participated in our survey had only finished secondary school and 0.2% of them refused to answer. Whereas the lowest frequency of survey-takers is marked on uneducated people with only 0.6% of them taking this survey and 1.3% having finished only the primary school. Education level

Albania-Serbia relations in the eyes of the Albanian Public 2015

The collection of data on the survey-takers’ academic background shows that 47.0% of them are university graduates. People who graduated high-school are ranked the second after the university graduates, with 35.3% of them. The percentage of postgraduates taking this survey is 8.3. 7.2% of the people who participated in our survey had only finished secondary school and 0.2% of them refused to answer. Whereas the lowest frequency of survey-takers is marked on uneducated people with only 0.6% of them taking this survey and 1.3% having finished only the primary school.

Education level

50 47.0 40 35.3 30 20 7.2 8.3 10 .6 1.3 .2 0 Percent

The final graph shows the employment status of the interviewees. Roughly 45% of them are employed as opposed to 17.8% of them being unemployed. 17.3% of them are self-employed whereas 11.7% of them are students. Only 0.2% of the people who took this survey refused to Theanswer final this graph question shows and 8% the claimed employment they were retired.status of the interviewees. Roughly 45% of them are employed as opposed to 17.8% of them Employment status being unemployed. 17.3% of them are self-employed whereas 11.7%50.0 of them are students. Only 0.2% of the people who took 45.0 this40.0 survey refused to answer this question and 8% claimed they were30.0 retired. 20.0 17.3 17.8 11.7 10.0 8.0 Percent 0.0 .2

50 47.0 40 35.3 30 20 7.2 8.3 10 .6 1.3 .2 0 Percent

The final graph shows the employment status of the interviewees. Roughly 45% of them are employedAlbania-Serbia as opposed to relations17.8% of in them the eyesbeing of untheemployed. Albanian 17.3%Public 2015 of them are self-employed whereas 11.7% of them are students. Only 0.2% of the people who took this survey refused to Employmentanswer this question status and 8% claimed they were retired. Employment status

50.0 45.0 40.0 30.0 20.0 17.3 17.8 11.7 10.0 8.0 Percent 0.0 .2

14 Albania-Serbia relations in the eyes of the Albanian Public 2015

3. Findings and analysis

3.1 General evaluations

Despite witnessing and experiencing an intensive year full of incidents and high level visits between Albania and Serbia, the majority of the citizens resented by almost half of the sample askedFindin gsins and our anal pollyssis believe that relations between two countries areGeneral normal. evaluation 45.6 spercent chose this option. A considerable group representing a third of the sample however thinks relations are notDespite normal, witnessing with a 29.5nd experien percentcing choosing an intensive they year are full bad of incide and 5n tspercent and high level visits between Albania and Serbia, the majority of the citizens resented by almost half of the sample very bad. Around 16 percent of citizens are on the other spectrum asked in our poll believe that relations between two countries are normal. 45.6 percent chose this ofoption. the Aanswers considera withble group 13.4 re ppercentresenting saying a third ofrelations the sample are how goodeever thinks and relations aree not slightlynormal, w underith 29.5 3 pe percentrcent choos verying good.they are bad and 5 percent very bad. Around 16 percent of citizens are on the other spectrum of the answers with 13.4 percent saying relations are good and Howslightly would under you3 perc generallyent very go evaluateod. relations between Albania and Serbia? How would you generally evaluate relations between Allbania and Serbia?

50 45.6

40 29.5 30

20 13.4 5.0 10 2.5 4.0 Percent 0 Very Good Normal Bad Very bad Don’t good know/ NA

When asked more specifically about the relations that exist between the respective governments of the two countries the answers shift a bit more towards the normal assessment.15 54.7 percent say that the relations between the executive branches of Albania and Serbia are normal followed by 20.5 percent that say bad or very bad. 13.7 percent of those asked said governments share a good or very good relation. How would you evaluate relations between the governments of the two countries, Albania and Serbia?

60 54.7 % 40 17.1 % 18.8 % 20 2.6 % 1.7 % 5.2 % 0 Very good Good Normal Bad Very bad Don’t know/ NA

Percent

Findingss and analyssis General evaluations Despite witnessing and experiencing an intensive year full of incidents and high level visits between Albania and Serbia, the majority of the citizens resented by almost half of the sample asked in our poll believe that relations between two countries are normal. 45.6 percent chose this option. A considerable group representing a third of the sample howeever thinks relations aree not normal, with 29.5 percent choosing they are bad and 5 percent very bad. Around 16 percent of citizens are on the other spectrum of the answers with 13.4 percent saying relations are good and slightly under 3 percent very good. How would you generally evaluate relations between Allbania and Serbia?

50 45.6

40 29.5 30

20 13.4 5.0 10 2.5 4.0 Percent 0 Albania-Serbia relations in the eyes of the Albanian Public 2015 Very Good Normal Bad Very bad Don’t When askedgood more specifically about the relationsknow/ that exist between NA the respective governments of the two countries the answers shift a bit more towards the normal assessment. 54.7 percent say that the relations between the executive branches of Albania and Serbia areWhen normal asked morefollowed specifically by 20.5 about percent the rela thattions say that bad exist or between very bad. the respecti 13.7 ve governments percentof the tw oof countries those asked the answers said governments shift a bit more share toward as goodthe normal or very assessment. good 54.7 percent say relation.that the relations between the executive branches of Albania and Serbia are normal followed by 20.5 percent that say bad or very bad. 13.7 percent of those asked said governments share a good Howor very would good relatio you nevaluate. relations between the governments of theHow two wou countries,ld you evaluate Albania relatio nands between Serbia? the governments of the two countries, Albania and Serbia?

60 54.7 % 40 17.1 % 18.8 % 20 2.6 % 1.7 % 5.2 % 0 Very good Good Normal Bad Very bad Don’t know/ NA

Percent

7 When asked though about perceived relations between two peoples. The citizens of Albania and Serbia the assessment cools off with only 42.5 percent saying these relations are normal followed by 27.5 percent that say relations are bad and 7 percent who say they are really bad. Around 14 percent of those asked perceive relations to be good and only percent really good.

Comparing the two results it is obvious that the general perception among citizens is that governments share a better relations than ordinary citizens themselves. This difference in perception is also affected form the high level meetings and visits that both prime Ministers have carried out in both Albania and Serbia as well as

16 When asked though about perceived relations between two peoples. The citizens of Albania and Serbia the assessment cools off with only 42.5 percent saying these relations are normal followed by 27.5 percent that say relations are bad and 7 percent who say they are really bad. Around 14 percent of thoseAlbania-Serbia asked perceive relations relations in the eyes to beof thegood Albanian and only Public percent 2015 really good. Comparing the two results it is obvious that the general perception among citizens is that theirgovernments joint meetings share a better in EUrelations events. than Additionallyordinary citizens in themselves. general citizens This difference in perceiveperception theiris also governments affected form the to highshare level better mee relationstings and visits with that neighbors both prime Ministers have thancarried themselves out in both Albania as demonstrated and Serbia as wellalso as in their the joint poll meetings that AIIS in EU hasevents. Additionally donein general in 2013 citizens about perceive Greek-Albanian their governments relations. to share better 1 relations with neighbors than themselves as demonstrated also in the poll that AIIS has done in 2013 about Greek-Albanian Basedrelations. on 1 your experience and the community, how would you evaluateBased on yourrelations experience between and the citizenscommunity of, howAlbania would youand evaluate citizens relations of between Serbiacitizens oftoday? Albania and citizens of Serbia today?

50 42.5 % 40 30 27.5 % 20 13.8 % 7.2 % 6.5 % 10 2.6 % 0 Very good Good Normal Bad Very bad Don't know/NA

Percent

Two thirds of the Albanian citizens asked believe Albanian Serbian relations carry importance with 49.2 percent saying these relations are importance and 18.2 percent saying that they are Twovery important.thirds ofIn comparisonthe Albanian only a fourthcitizens of the asked sample, believe 25.6 percent Albanian believe they are not so Serbianimportant andrelations a very small carry group importance of 4.5 percent with say th49.2ey don’t percent have any saying importance at all. these relations are importance and 18.2 percent saying that they areIn your very judgment, important. how importantIn comparison are relations only between a fourth Albania of the and sample, Serbia? 25.6 percent believe they are not so important and a very small group of 4.5 percent say they don’t have any importance at all.

In your judgment, how important are relations between Albania and Serbia?

1.1 ‘Albanian-Greek ‘Albanian-Greek relations relations from the from eyes the of theeyes Albanian of the PublicAlbanian 2013’ Public Albanian 2013’ Institute Albanian for International Studies, Institutehttp://www.aiis-albania.org/?q=reports for International Studies, http://www.aiis-albania.org/?q=reports 17 8

Albania-Serbia relations in the eyes of the Albanian Public 2015

60 50 49.2 40 30 25.6 Percent 20 18.2 1060 4.5 2.6 500 49.2 40 Very Important Not so Not Don’t 30 important important important know/ NA 25.6 20 at all Percent 18.2 10 4.5 AskedAsked0 about about their their future future expectations expectations the major ity2.6the of majoritythe respondents of the be lieve relations between Albaniarespondents Veryand Serbia believeImportant will relationsimprove. Not so 54.4betweenNot percent Don’tAlbania say that and improvement Serbia will will be the trend compared important important important know/ NA toimprove. 32.1 percent 54.4 that percent say they say will that remainat improvement all the same and will a mere be the3.3 percenttrend that expect deterioration.compared to A 32.1 considerable percent number that say of restheypondents will remainhowever, the around same 10 percent, do not answer theandAsked question a mereabout withtheir3.3 percentfuturea valid expectations option. that expect the majordeterioration.ity of the respondents A considerable believe relations between number of respondents however, around 10 percent, do not HowAlbania will and relations Serbia willbetween improve. Albania 54.4 percent and Serbia say that be improvementin the future? will be the trend compared answerto 32.1 percent the question that say they with will a remainvalid option.the same and a mere 3.3 percent that expect deterioration.60 A54.4 considerable % number of respondents however, around 10 percent, do not answer Howthe question will withrelations a valid option.between Albania and Serbia be in the future?50 How will relations between Albania and Serbia be in the future? 40 32.1 % 60 54.4 % 30 50 20 40 32.1 % 10.2 % 10 30 3.3 % 0 20 They will improve There will be no They will Don’t10.2 know/ % NA 10 change deteriorate3.3 % 0 Percent They will improve There will be no They will Don’t know/ NA change deteriorate Citizens in Albania are quite aware of the significance that bilateral relations with Serbia have on Percent the overall stability in the entire region. Hence an overwhelming majority indicate that these relations are key to security and peace in the Western Balkans. 34 percent of citizens say that relationsCitizens18 inare Albania very important are quite awar in thise of context the significance followed that by bilatera52 percentl relations which with say Serbia that they have are on the overall stability in the entire region. Hence an overwhelming majority indicate that these important. Only one in en respondents (10 percent) does not believe that bilateral relations with relations are key to security and peace in the Western Balkans. 34 percent of citizens say that Serbiarelations are are important very important to stability in this in context the region. followed by 52 percent which say that they are Howimportant. important Only oneare inrelations en respondents between (10 Albania percent) an doesd Serbia not believe for security that bilateral and relastabilitytions within the Balkans?Serbia are important to stability in the region. How important are relations between Albania and Serbia for security and stability in the Balkans?

Albania-Serbia relations in the eyes of the Albanian Public 2015

Citizens in Albania are quite aware of the significance that bilateral relations with Serbia have on the overall stability in the entire region. Hence an overwhelming majority indicate that these relations are key to security and peace in the Western Balkans. 34 percent of citizens say that relations are very important in this context followed by 52 percent which say that they are important. Only one in en respondents (10 percent) does not believe that bilateral relations with Serbia are important to stability in the region.

How important are relations between Albania and Serbia for security and stability in the Balkans?

Don’t know/ NA 4.2

Not important 10.0 Percent Important 51.8

Very important 34.1

0 20 40 60

Asked on their perceptions about readiness to move beyond history and prepare a better relation Askedin the fu onture their Albani perceptionsan citizens about are split, readiness 50.7 percentto move see beyondm to believ historye that the two countries are andready prepare to build a betterfriendl relationy relations in ftheollowed future by Albanian 30.1 perce citizensnt who are say split, that they are not. The number 50.7of citize percentns that seem cann otot give believe an a nthatswer the to thetwo question countries is q uiteare highready a t toabove 19 percent. This is a buildsignal friendlythat they relations are confused followed about bythe 30.1 level percent of readiness whos tosay build that athey better future relation. are not. The number of citizens that cannot give an answer to the Do you think the two countries are prepared to build friendly relations? question is quite high at above 19 percent. This is a signal that they are60.0 confused about the level of readiness to build a better future relation. 50.7 40.0 30.1 Percent 20.0 19.3 19 0.0 Yes No Don’t know/ NA

Political relations and European context Most Albanians 65.3 percent think that Albania is not threatened by any other country. Those who believe that such a risk exists make up less than 20 percent of the sample. A considerable share of the answers, 15.3 percent indicate that citizens don’t have an answer to this question. Out of the 19.4 percent that seem to believe that Albania is threatened the evaluations about which country specifically poses a threat to Albania are various. Out of this subgroup, 31.6 percent (of 19.4) indicate as a major heart the southern neighbor statte of Greece followed by 27.8 percent who indicate this threat to be Serbia. The other figures are lower with Russia picked by slightly more than 15 percent and the Arab countries by 12 percent. Combining the two graph results, a total of 5.4 percent of the entire respondents indicate Serbia to be a threat for Albania. The prevalence of Greece above Serbia as a perceived threat, (although chosen by a total number of respondents typically low) is consistent with the results of the AIIS poll of 2013. 2 Do you think Albania is threatened by another country? If yes, which of the foollowing states poses the most threat to Albania (Please select only one):

2 ‘Albanian-Greek relations from the eyes of the Albanian Public 2013’ Albanian Institute for International Studies, http://www.aiis-albania.org/?q=reports

Don’t know/ NA 4.2

Not important 10.0 Percent Important 51.8

Very important 34.1

0 20 40 60

Asked on their perceptions about readiness to move beyond history and prepare a better relation in the future Albanian citizens are split, 50.7 percent seem to believe that the two countries are Albania-Serbia relations in the eyes of the Albanian Public 2015 ready to build friendly relations followed by 30.1 percent who say that they are not. The number ofDo citize youn sthink that cann theo t twogive countriesan answer toare the preparedquestion is toquite build high friendly at above 19 percent. This is a signal that they are confused about the level of readinesss to build a better future relation. relations? Do you think the two countries are prepared to build friendly relations?

60.0 50.7 40.0 30.1 Percent 20.0 19.3

0.0 Yes No Don’t know/ NA

2 ‘Albanian-Greek relations from the eyes of the Albanian Public 2013’ Albanian Institute for International Studies, http://www.aiis-albania.org/?q=reports

20 Albania-Serbia relations in the eyes of the Albanian Public 2015

3.2 Political relations and European context

Most Albanians 65.3 percent think that Albania is not threatened by any other country. Those who believe that such a risk exists make up less than 20 percent of the sample. A considerable share of the answers, 15.3 percent indicate that citizens don’t have an answer to this question. Out of the 19.4 percent that seem to believe that Albania is threatened the evaluations about which country specifically poses a threat to Albania are various. Out of this subgroup, 31.6 percent (of 19.4) indicate as a major heart the southern neighbor state of Greece followed by 27.8 percent who indicate this threat to be Serbia. The other figures are lower with Russia picked by slightly more than 15 percent and the Arab countries by 12 percent. Combining the two graph results, a total of 5.4 percent of the entire respondents indicate Serbia to be a threat for Albania. The prevalence of Greece above Serbia as a perceived threat, (although chosen by a total number of respondents typically low) is consistent with the results of the AIIS poll of 2013. 2

Do you think Albania is threatened by another country? If yes, which of the following states poses the most threat to Albania (Please select only one):

Albanian citizens believe that their government should pay attention to the relations with Serbia as one of the neighboring region countries. As yearly polls of AIIS show traditionally Albanians reserve most of their desired attention for neighbors such as Italy,

2. ‘Albanian-Greek relations from the eyes of the Albanian Public 2013’ Albanian Institute for International Studies, http://www.aiis-albania.org/?q=reports 21 Albania-Serbia relations in the eyes of the Albanian Public 2015

70.0 65.3 60.0 50.0 Yes 40.0 No 30.0 19.4 20.0 15.3 Don’t 10.0 know/ NA 0.00.0 0.0 0.0 Percent

35 31.6 30 27.8 25 20 15.6 15 12.2 8.4 10 3.4 5 .4 .4 .4 0

Kosova and Greece. This is natural given the existing bonds that remains strong between Albania and these countries. In the case ofAlbanian Serbia very citizens little believenumbers that of peopletheir government believe that sthehould Albanian pay attention to the relations with Serbia governmentas one of the should neighboring pay no regionattention countries. or very Aslittle year attentionly polls to of AIIS show traditionally Albanians developingreserve most relations of their with desired Serbia attention the blue for neihighlightedghbors such figures as Italy, Kosova and Greece. This is whichnatural correspond given the toexisting a degree bonds of 1-3 that (minimal remains or str zeroong attention) between Albania and these countries. In the case22 of Serbia very little numbers of people believe that the Albanian government should pay no attention or very little attention to developing relations with Serbia the blue highlighted figures which correspond to a degree of 1-3 (minimal or zero attention) total to a sum of 13 percent. On the other side the number of people who seek large to maximum attention (level 8-10) for relations with Serbia is much higher at a total of 37.4 percent. Most of the citizens asked have preferred the level of attention to be paid to relations with Serbia to be average to considerable (degrees 4-7), with total answers in that range at 49.5 percent.

Table 1 : In a scale from one to ten how much attention should the Albanian government pay to relations with neighboring and countries from the region? Degree of Greece Italy Serbia Former Kosovo Monteneg Turkey

Albania-Serbia relations in the eyes of the Albanian Public 2015 total to a sum of 13 percent. On the other side the number of people who seek large to maximum attention (level 8-10) for relations with Serbia is much higher at a total of 37.4 percent. Most of the citizens asked have preferred the level of attention to be paid to relations with Serbia to be average to considerable (degrees 4-7), with total answers in that range at 49.5 percent.

Table 1 : In a scale from one to ten how much attention should the Albanian government pay to relations with neighboring and countries from the region?

attention Yugoslav ro Republic of Macedoni a 1 3.3 1.5 6.9 2.2 2.0 1.2 2.5 2 2.3 1.0 3.1 2.5 .8 1.7 2.1 3 2.4 .9 3.0 2.7 .8 2.4 2.1 4 2.5 1.3 6.9 4.2 1.1 4.0 3.1 5 7.2 2.6 12.0 14.4 2.3 9.1 5.7 6 7.6 2.5 13.3 11.8 2.4 13.2 5.9 7 17.1 9.5 17.3 21.9 3.6 19.4 10.1 8 20.8 17.1 16.4 16.7 8.2 23.1 16.9 9 12.8 22.6 8.2 11.0 15.8 11.8 23.4 10 24.0 41.0 12.8 12.6 63.1 14.2 28.1 Total 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0 100.0

Respondents were presented with a lost of potential issues that might constitute obstacles and Respondentschallenges in the building were of apresented normal relation betweenwith aAlbania lost and of Serbia potential and asked toissues rank that mightthem in termsconstitute of perceived obstaclesimportance. and challenges in the building of a normalAs seen from relation the results inbetween the table 2 the Albania most frequently and mentioned Serbia issues and and obstaclesasked relate to rank to the past and the history of the two countries which involves their relation to the conflict and themKosovo. in The terms overwhelming of perceived majority of Albanian importance.s 86.2 percent believe that the oppression of Kosovo Albanians and criminal heritage of the Milosevic regime in Kosovo represent a major Asobstacle seen in the from development the of resultsbilateral relations in .the Moreover table as the 2 detaile thed breakdownmost frequentlyof figures in table 3 reveals this factor is ranked as either first or second most difficult problem to face. mentioned issues and obstacles relate to the past and the history The historical hostility between the two nations, a concept largely related to Kosovo as well but ofextended, the two is also countries picked by 83 percent which of the involves respondents andtheir again relation ranked as mainly to the first orconflict andsecond Kosovo. most important The issue. overwhelming majority of Albanians 86.2 percentThe state of believecurrent relations that between the Albania oppression and Serbia also of does Kosovo not seem to Albanians be very and satisfactory for citizens since 74 percent of them believe it is an issue in the development of relations. This result is puzzling since in the beginning most of the respondents chose to describe23 the relations as normal. However the recent incidents connected to the soccer game might provide the context necessary to understand this controversial assessment. Citizens perceive the lack of communication for a long time between Albanian and Serbian citizens to be a considerable obstacle chosen so by 41.2 percent of the sample. Around 13 percent of the people also mentioned the level of economic relations as an issue to be addressed. Only 0.8 percent of the sample chose to say that there are no such issues or obstacles at all. Both the lack of communication between societies and the state of the economic relations are mainly placed in the third place of importance by citizen who chose to mention them as obstacles

Albania-Serbia relations in the eyes of the Albanian Public 2015 criminal heritage of the Milosevic regime in Kosovo represent a major obstacle in the development of bilateral relations. Moreover as the detailed breakdown of figures in table 3 reveals this factor is ranked as either first or second most difficult problem to face.

The historical hostility between the two nations, a concept largely related to Kosovo as well but extended, is also picked by 83 percent of the respondents and again ranked as mainly first or second most important issue.

The state of current relations between Albania and Serbia also does not seem to be very satisfactory for citizens since 74 percent of them believe it is an issue in the development of relations. This result is puzzling since in the beginning most of the respondents chose to describe the relations as normal. However the recent incidents connected to the soccer game might provide the context necessary to understand this controversial assessment.

Citizens perceive the lack of communication for a long time between Albanian and Serbian citizens to be a considerable obstacle chosen so by 41.2 percent of the sample. Around 13 percent of the people also mentioned the level of economic relations as an issue to be addressed. Only 0.8 percent of the sample chose to say that there are no such issues or obstacles at all.

Both the lack of communication between societies and the state of the economic relations are mainly placed in the third place of importance by citizen who chose to mention them as obstacles hence downplaying their relevance in comparison to the past legacy problems which are more pertinent.

24 Albania-Serbia relations in the eyes of the Albanian Public 2015

Table 2: What are the three most important issues that constitute obstacles and problems in the Albanian-Serbian relations (list in order of importance with the numbers 1-3)?

Issues Percent (of total) Historical Hostility between the two nations 82.9

Oppression of Kosovo Albanians and 86.2 criminal heritage of the Milosevic regime in Kosovo The state of current relations between Ser- 74.0 bia and Kosovo Lack of communication for a long time 41.2 between citizens of Serbia and Albania

The level of economic relations between 12.8 both countries and societies

No problems 0.8

When ranked in terms of importance the specific results for each mentioned factor are:

Out of the total group of answers who picked the historical enmity to be an issue/obstacle, 47.1 percent think it is the 1st most important issue, 25.2 the second and 27.6 the third most important issue.

From those who mention the oppression of Kosovo Albanians and the criminal Milosevic regime, 42.1 percent see it as the first most important issue followed by 41.8 percent who consider it the second most important and finally 16.2 percent as the third.

The current state of relations between the two countries was also chosen by a considerable subgroup of the sample, out of which 23.3

25 Albania-Serbia relations in the eyes of the Albanian Public 2015 percent place it in the first place of importance, 34.1 in the second place and 42.6 in the third place.

From the smaller group of citizens who mention the lack of communications only 17 percent see it as the first problem, 28 percent se it as the second and the largest group with 54 percent of the answers in that subcategory see it as the third most important obstacle to bilateral relations.

Finally out of the subgroup that mentions economic relations or lack of thereof as a potential obstacle most answers fall into categorizing this as the third most important problem with 52 percent of the answers, while those who place it first and second are respectively 25.3 percent and 22.7 percent.

Table 3: Relative importance of perceived issues and obstacles

Importance level 1 2 3 Historical Hostility between 47.1 25.2 27.6 the two nations Oppression of Kosovo 42.1 41.8 16.2 Albanians and criminal heritage of the Milosevic regime in Kosovo The state of current relations 23.3 34.1 42.6 between Serbia and Kosovo Lack of communication for 17.8 28.1 54.0 a long time between citizens of Serbia and Albania The level of economic 25.3 22.7 51.9 relations between both countries and societies

26 Albania-Serbia relations in the eyes of the Albanian Public 2015

The participants in our survey were presented with a series of statements and asked whether they considered them correct or not. This experiment was done to evaluate the degree of myths, misconceptions and prejudices that exist among the Albanian public about the relations with Serbia.

When considering the history of relations Albania and Serbia as modern states have never been involved in a direct conflict. However the conflict with Albanians in Kosovo is perceived as reason for more than 50 percent of the polled citizens to disagree with the statement “Albanians and Serbs have never fought each other.” Only 30 percent of the respondents agree with this statement.

When asked about the controversial soccer game in Belgrade in October 2014 as expected the majority of the asked citizens blame Serbia, over 70 percent of Albanians place the blame on the Serb side. Less than 3 percent blame Albania while a considerable share of the answers, 20 percent blame both Albania and Serbia for what happened.

Please read the following statements and answer whether or not you agree with them:

Albanians and Serbs have never fought against one-another

60 53.8 %

40 30.3 %

20 15.6 %

0 Yes No Don’t know/ NA

Percent

Which country was according to you, most responsible for the incident that occurred in the football match in Belgrade?

80 72.2 %

40 20.1 % 20 2.6 % 1.0 % 0 Serbia Albania Both Other

Percent

A group of statements tried also to gauge perceptions on various factors that condition the development of relations between Albania and Serbia. Media has propagated the idea that relations between the two countries are improving or will normalize because it is something requested from the European Union (or in popular jargon from Brussels) or even requested from the strong EU member state Germany (hence from Berlin). In fact these perceptions has followed also from reflecting on the Berlin and Vienna summits which have provided opportunities for the political class high representatives of both sides to meet and even apply for regional projects. Another important factor that determines the process of normalization of relations is the relation of Serbia with Kosova. From the answers given in this group of statements it becomes clear that Albanians believe that Albania and Serbia should improve and deepen their relation because it is in their own interest much more than because it is requested from the EU. Also a considerable majority of Albanians believe that relations between Serbia and Kosova should not keep the bilateral relations of Albania and Serbia hostage. 67 percent of Albanians believe that it is true that Albania and Serbia should improve their relations as a response to a request from the European Union while 23.5 disagree. A bit more than 9 percent do not comment this statement. Only 43 percent of Albanians believe that is true that relations should ne normalized as per the request of Germany while 40 percent disagree. About 17 percent don’t know or don’t comet the

60 53.8 %

40 30.3 %

20 15.6 %

0 Yes No Don’t know/ NA

Percent

Albania-Serbia relations in the eyes of the Albanian Public 2015

Which country was according to you, most responsible for the incidentWhich country that occurred was according in the football to you, matchmost resp in Belgrade?onsible for the incident that occurred in the football match in Belgrade?

80 72.2 %

40 20.1 % 20 2.6 % 1.0 % 0 Serbia Albania Both Other

Percent

A group of statements tried also to gauge perceptions on various factors that condition the A group of statements tried also to gauge perceptions on various development of relations between Albania and Serbia. Media has propagated the idea that factors that condition the development of relations between Albania relations between the two countries are improving or will normalize because it is something and Serbia. Media has propagated the idea that relations between requested from the European Union (or in popular jargon from Brussels) or even requested from the two countries are improving or will normalize because it is the strong EU member state Germany (hence from Berlin). In fact these perceptions has followed something requested from the European Union (or in popular jargon also from reflecting on the Berlin and Vienna summits which have provided opportunities for the from Brussels) or even requested from the strong EU member state political class high representatives of both sides to meet and even apply for regional projects. Germany (hence from Berlin). In fact these perceptions has followed Another important factor that determines the process of normalization of relations is the relation also from reflecting on the Berlin and Vienna summits which have of Serbia with Kosova. From the answers given in this group of statements it becomes clear that provided opportunities for the political class high representatives Albanians believe that Albania and Serbia should improve and deepen their relation because it is of both sides to meet and even apply for regional projects. Another in their own interest much more than because it is requested from the EU. Also a considerable important factor that determines the process of normalization of majority of Albanians believe that relations between Serbia and Kosova should not keep the relations is the relation of Serbia with Kosova. From the answers givenbilateral in relationsthis group of ofAlba statementsnia and Serbia it becomes hostage. clear that Albanians believe67 percent that of Albania Albanians and believe Serbia that should it is trueimprove that Albaniaand deepen and Serbiatheir should improve their relationrelations because as a response it is in totheir a re ownquest interest from the much European more than Union because while it 23.5 disagree. A bit more isthan requested 9 percent from do thenot EU.comment Also a this considerable statement. majority of Albanians believe that relations between Serbia and Kosova should not keep theOnly bilateral 43 percent relations of Albanians of Albania believe and Serbia that is hostage.true that relations should ne normalized as per the request of Germany while 40 percent disagree. About 17 percent don’t know or don’t comet the

28 15

Albania-Serbia relations in the eyes of the Albanian Public 2015

67 percent of Albanians believe that it is true that Albania and Serbia should improve their relations as a response to a request from the European Union while 23.5 disagree. A bit more than 9 percent do not comment this statement.

Only 43 percent of Albanians believe that is true that relations should ne normalized as per the request of Germany while 40 percent disagree. About 17 percent don’t know or don’t comet the statement. The data indicates that citizens are more inclined to believe the request for normalization can come from the EU institutions rather statemethan fromnt. The one data member indicates state tha sucht citizens as Germany. are more incli ned to believe the request for normali90.6 ofz ationAlbanians can co mebelieve from ththate EU normalization institutions rather is tinhan the from interest one member of state such as Germany. both countries while only 5.7 percent disagree with this statement. 90.6 of Albanians believe that normalization is in the inteerest of both countries while only 5.7 percent61.3 percentdisagree ofwit Albaniansh this statem believeent. that Albania and Serbia should deepen their relations, despite Serbia’s relations with Kosovo, while 61.3 percent of Albanians believe that Albania and Serbia should deeepen their relations, despite 28.5 percent disagree with this, hence factoring in the relation with Serbia's relations with Kosovo, while 28.5 percent disagree with this, hence factoring in the Kosova as conditional to bilateral relations with Serbia. One in ten relation with Kosova as conditional to bilateral relations with Serbia. One in ten respondentts haverespondents not assessed have or not commented assessed on or this commented statement. on this statement. Albania and Serbia should deepen relations because this is required by the European Union Albania and Serbia should deepen relations because thhis is required by the European Union

80 67.1 % 60 40 23.5 % 20 9.3 % 0 Yes No Don’t know/ NA

Percent

Albania and Serbia need to improve their relations because this is rrequired by Germany

29 43.4 % 60 39.6 % 40 16.8 % 20 0 Yes No Don’t know/ NA

Percent

Albania and Serbia should deepen their relations because it’s in the interest of both countries

16 statement. The data indicates that citizens are more inclined to believe the request for normalization can come from the EU institutions rather than from one member state such as Germany. 90.6 of Albanians believe that normalization is in the inteerest of both countries while only 5.7 percent disagree with this statement. 61.3 percent of Albanians believe that Albania and Serbia should deeepen their relations, despite Serbia's relations with Kosovo, while 28.5 percent disagree with this, hence factoring in the relation with Kosova as conditional to bilateral relations with Serbia. One in ten respondentts have not assessed or commented on this statement.

Albania and Serbia should deepen relations because thhis is required by the European Union

80 67.1 % 60

40 23.5 % 20 9.3 % 0 Yes No Don’t know/ NA Albania-Serbia relations in the eyes of the Albanian Public 2015 Percent Albania and Serbia need to improve their relations because this is requiredAlbania andby Germany Serbia need to improve their relations because this is rrequired by Germany

43.4 % 60 39.6 % 40 16.8 % 20 0 Yes No Don’t know/ NA

Percent

AlbaniaAlbania andand SSerbiaerbia sshouldhould dee deepenpen their their rel relationsations beca becauseuse it’s it’s in tinhe interest of both countries the interest of both countries 100 90.6 100 90.6 80 80 6060 4040 Percent Percent 2020 5.7 5.7 3.6 3.6 0 0 YesYes NoNo Don’t know/ Don’t NA know/ NA 16

AlbaniaAlbaniaAlbania and and SerbiaSerbia Serbia should should should deepen deepen deepen their their theirrelatio relations, relations, despite ns,despite despite Serbia's Serbia’s Serbia's relations relations with Kosovo with Kosovo relations with Kosovo 100 100 61.3% 61.3% 50 28.5% 50 28.5% 10.2% 0 10.2% 0 Yes No Don’t know/ NA Yes No Don’t know/ NA Percent Percent

The 30 platform of EU integration is not only a path towards more normalization and regional cooperationThe platform in the of region. EU integration Often the regattais not onlyprinciple a path of accessiontowards moreyields normalizationto a competition and regional between countries and perceptions of rivalry between citizens. At the present moment Serbia is cooperation in the region. Often the regatta principle of accession yields to a competition one step ahead of Albania having opened negotiations with the EU while Albania is yet to receivebetween a date countries for the opening and perceptions of the negotiations. of rivalry However between Se citizens.rbia on the At other the present side has moment a Serbia is difficultone step chapter ahead to ofnegotiate Albania with having the dialogue opened with negotia Pristinations that with will the be EUongoing while parallel Albania to itsis yet to integrationreceive a efforts. date for Hence the opening the dynamics of the of negotiations. integration provides However for someSerbia interesting on the other insight side on has a thedifficult perception chapter level toof negotiateAlbanian citizens. with the Asked dialogue whether with they Pristina believe that that will Serbia be ongoingwill join theparallel to its EUintegration before Albania efforts. 41 percentHence disagreethe dynamics hence ofbelieve integration Albania provides will make for it first.some However interesting 30 insight on percentthe perception believe that level Serbia of Albanianwill join the citizens. EU sooner Asked while whether a considerab they lebelieve 29 percent that don’tSerbia know will join the orEU choose before not Albaniato answer. 41 percent disagree hence believe Albania will make it first. However 30 Mostpercent Albanian believe citizens that don’tSerbia know will whether join the th EUeir Serbiansooner counterpartswhile a considerab would welcomele 29 percent or don’t know encourageor choose or notdislike to answer. the membership of Albania in the EU> hence to the statement that ‘Serbian citizens don’t want Albania’s EU membership’ the majority, 41.4 percent say that they down know.Most Almost Albanian equal citizens numbers don’t of 30 know percent whether and 28.4 th eirpercent Serbian respectively counterparts agree orwould disagree welcome with or theencourage statement orsignaling dislike a the confusion membership regarding of Albaniathe perceived in the reaction EU> hencefrom Serbia to the on statement the effort that of ‘Serbian Albania’scitizens EUdon’t accession. want Albania’s EU membership’ the majority, 41.4 percent say that they down know. Almost equal numbers of 30 percent and 28.4 percent respectively agree or disagree with Serbiathe statement will join thesignaling EU before a confusion Albania regarding the perceived reaction from Serbia on the effort of Albania’s EU accession. Serbia will join the EU before Albania

Albania-Serbia relations in the eyes of the Albanian Public 2015

The platform of EU integration is not only a path towards more normalization and regional cooperation in the region. Often the regatta principle of accession yields to a competition between countries and perceptions of rivalry between citizens. At the present moment Serbia is one step ahead of Albania having opened negotiations with the EU while Albania is yet to receive a date for the opening of the negotiations. However Serbia on the other side has a difficult chapter to negotiate with the dialogue with Pristina that will be ongoing parallel to its integration efforts. Hence the dynamics of integration provides for some interesting insight on the perception level of Albanian citizens. Asked whether they believe that Serbia will join the EU before Albania 41 percent disagree hence believe Albania will make it first. However 30 percent believe that Serbia will join the EU sooner while a considerable 29 percent don’t know or choose not to answer.

Most Albanian citizens don’t know whether their Serbian counterparts would welcome or encourage or dislike the membership of Albania in the EU> hence to the statement that ‘Serbian citizens don’t want Albania’s EU membership’ the majority, 41.4 percent say that they down know. Almost equal numbers of 30 percent and 28.4 percent respectively agree or disagree with the statement signaling a confusion regarding the perceived reaction from Serbia on the effort of Albania’s EU accession.

Serbia will join the EU before Albania

29% 30% Yes 29% 30% Yes No No Don’t know/ NA Don’t know/ NA 41% 41%

Serbian citizens don’t want Albania's EU membership 31 Serbian citizens don’t want Albania's EU membership 50 441.4 % 50 40 441.4 % 40 30.0 % 28.4 % 30 30.0 % 28.4 % 30 20 20 10 10 0 0 Yes No Don’t know/ NA Yes No Don’t know/ NA Percent Percent

Direct interaction and cultural exchange Direct interaction and cultural exchange The level of interaction and knowledge about each other and especially cultural knowledge and cooperatThe leveilon of haveinteract a liaonrge and impact kno wonledge percepti abouotns each of each- othero andther especiand thaelly assessmen cultural tk ofnowledge the pote anndtial ofcooperat the reliationson have impr a laorgevement. impact T horoughn percepti a gronsup ofof each-questoionsther the and pol thel triesassessmen to estatblish of the an pote ntial overvieof the rewlations of how impr muochvement. Albania Tnh citizensrough a grmiogupht ofhave quest comionse into the conpoltlact tries with to estSearbiablish through an travelinoverviewg orof knowinhow mugch its Albania culture n( literaturecitizens mi angdht cinema). have come into contact with Serbia through traveling or knowing its culture (literature and cinema). Only 17 percent of those asked had ever travelled to Serbia while 83 percent had never been there.Only 17 Ou ptercent of the ofpeo thposele who asked ha dh adtravelled ever tra tvoelled Serbia to mosSersbt iaof while them 8329 .5percent percent ha hdad never been bee thenr e for tourismthere. O upturposes of the peo whpilele 23.8who perhadc enttravelled had bee ton Serbia there justmoss ttransiting of them 2to9 .5another percent de hsadtination. been the13r e for percenttourism hpadurposes been thewhrilee on 23.8 busin perecssent trips had whi beelne there19 percen just transiting to attend tovarious another semi desntination.ars and 13 conferenpercent hces.ad been About the 1r2.4e on percent busine sshad trips travell whiedele to19 Serbiapercen tto to meet attend eith veariousr relatives semi onrars friends. and From theconferen data wces.e see About that 1v2.4ery percentfew Alb hadanians travell havedee travelled to Serbia t oto Serbia meet eithin seurch relatives a way t horat friends. have all Forwedom themthe data to gwenuinelye see that in vteractery few with Al pbeopleanians and hav kenow travelled the co tuontry Serbia (since in s tuhosech a transiway tthingat have cannot all oreallywed countthem toin gtenuinelyhis group). in tTheeract openin with pgeople of a directand k nowflight the line co buetweenntry (since Tira tnhose and transiBelgrtaingde cannothas really facilitatecount in dthis travel group). sinc Thee 2014 openin and gis of expected a direct tflighto have line a po bsitiveetween impa Tiracnt inand the Belgr incraedease has of the numbersfacilitate.d travel since 2014 and is expected to have a positive impact in the increase of the numbers. About 18 percent of Albanian citizens have read books by Serbian authors while 79 percent say thatAbout they 18 have percent never of Areadlbanian Serbia cintizens autho havers. A rsead explained books b byy Serbian writers aounthors both whilsidese few79 percent qualita tsayive translatithat theyo nshave of nevereach o readther’s Serbia literanture autho existrs. aAnsd explained even less bsoy forwriters conte onmporary both sides lite rature,few qualita one ftiveield translations of each other’s literature exist and even less so for contemporary literature, one field 18 18

29% 30% Yes No Don’t know/ NA

41%

Albania-Serbia relations in the eyes of the Albanian Public 2015

SerbianSerbian c citizensitizens don don’t’t wan wantt A Albania’slbania's E EUU m membershipembership

50 441.4 % 40 30.0 % 28.4 % 30 20 10 0 Yes No Don’t know/ NA

Percent

Direct interaction and cultural exchange The level of interaction and knowledge about each other and especially cultural knowledge and cooperation have a large impact on perceptions of each-other and the assessment of the potential of the relations improvement. Through a group of questions the poll tries to establish an overview of how much Albanian citizens might have come into contact with Serbia through traveling or knowing its culture (literature and cinema). Only 17 percent of those asked had ever travelled to Serbia while 83 percent had never been there. Out of the people who had travelled to Serbia mosst of them 29.5 percent had been there for tourism purposes while 23.8 percent had been there just transiting to another destination. 13 percent had been there on business trips while 19 percent to attend various seminars and conferences. About 12.4 percent had travellede to Serbia to meet either relatives or friends. From the data we see that very few Albanians have travelled to Serbia in such a way that have allowed them to genuinely interact with people and know the country (since those transiting cannot really count in this group). The opening of a direct flight line between Tiran and Belgrade has facilitated travel since 2014 and is expected to have a positive impact in the increase of the numbers. About 18 percent of Albanian citizens have read books by Serbian authors while 79 percent say that they have never read Serbian authors. As explained by writers on both sides few qualitative translations of each other’s literature exist and even less so for contemporary literature, one field 32 18

Albania-Serbia relations in the eyes of the Albanian Public 2015

3.3 Direct interaction and cultural exchange

The level of interaction and knowledge about each other and especially cultural knowledge and cooperation have a large impact on perceptions of each-other and the assessment of the potential of the relations improvement. Through a group of questions the poll tries to establish an overview of how much Albanian citizens might have come into contact with Serbia through traveling or knowing its culture (literature and cinema).

Only 17 percent of those asked had ever travelled to Serbia while 83 percent had never been there. Out of the people who had travelled to Serbia most of them 29.5 percent had been there for tourism purposes while 23.8 percent had been there just transiting to another destination. 13 percent had been there on business trips while 19 percent to attend various seminars and conferences. About 12.4 percent had travelled to Serbia to meet either relatives or friends. From the data we see that very few Albanians have travelled to Serbia in such a way that have allowed them to genuinely interact with people and know the country (since those transiting cannot really count in this group). The opening of a direct flight line between Tiran and Belgrade has facilitated travel since 2014 and is expected to have a positive impact in the increase of the numbers.

About 18 percent of Albanian citizens have read books by Serbian authors while 79 percent say that they have never read Serbian authors. As explained by writers on both sides few qualitative translations of each other’s literature exist and even less so for contemporary literature, one field of intervention where more could be done by supporting the translation of some books into

33 Albania-Serbia relations in the eyes of the Albanian Public 2015 of intervention where more could be done by supporting the translation of some books into Albanian and vice versa. Albanian and vice versa. On the other side a larger percentage of citizens, 30 percent, has seen moviesOn thefrom o tSerbianher side directors, a larger somepercen oft agewhich of citizare quietens, famous30 perc inent, has seen movies from Serbian of intervention where more could be done by supporting the translation of some books into Albaniadirectors as well, some as in of the w wholehich are region. quie 56t famous percent in of Albania citizens haveas wwell as in the whole region. 56 percent Albanian and vice versa. not ofwatched citize nSerbians have movies.not watched Serbian movies. On the other side a larger percentage of citizens, 30 percent, has seen movies from Serbian directors, someHave of w youhich earever qui travelet famoused in to Albania Serb asia? wwell as in the whole region. 56 percent of citizens have not watched Serbian movies. 17.1 Have you ever traveled to Serbia?

17.1 82.9

82.9 1 2

1 2 If yes, foor what reasons? If yes, for what reasons? If yes, foor what reasons?2.4 % To do business / trade 2.4 % 12.9

23.812.9 % % 19.0 % To do business / trade

23.8 % % 19.0 % To participate in an To participaeventte in an / conference event / conference 29.5% To meet my friends or 29.5% To meet my friends or 12.4 % relatives 12.4 % relatives

HaveH aveyou everyou readever breadooks byooks Serbian by Se authrbianors? auth ors?

3% 3%

18% 18% Yes 34 Yes No No 79% Don’t know/ NA 79% Don’t know/ NA

Have you ever watched movies byb Serbian film directors? Have you ever watched movies byb Serbian film directors?

19 of interventionof interv whereention more wher couled more be done coul bdy besupporting done by supportingthe translat itheon oftranslat somei onbooks of some into books into Albanian andAlbania vice vne andrsa. vice versa. On the otherOn side the a o ltaherrger side percen a largertage percenof citizteagens, of30 citiz perceent,ns, 30has perc seeent,n movies has see frno mmovies Serbian fro m Serbian directors, somedirectors of w,h someich are of qui wheicht famous are qui ine tAlbania famous asin wAlbaniawell as in as t hwwelle whole as in re thgeion. whole 56 percregion.ent 56 percent of citizens haveof citize notn ws atchedhave not Ser wbatchedian movies Serb.ian movies.

Have you Heavever travelyou eveerd totravel Serbeida? to Serbia?

17.1 17.1

82.9 82.9

1 2 1 2

If yes, foor whatIf yes, reas fooro ns?what reasons?

2.4 % 2.4 %

12.9 12.9 To do businessTo / dotrade business / trade 23.8 % % 23.8 %1 9.0% % 19.0 % To participateTo in participan ate in an event / conferenceevent / conference 29.5% 29.5% To meet my friendsTo meet or my friends or 12.4 % 12.4 % relatives relatives

Albania-Serbia relations in the eyes of the Albanian Public 2015

Have you everHaveHave read you yo u everb everooks read readby books Se brooksbian by Serbian bauthy Seor rs?bianauthors? authors?

3% 3%

18% 18% Yes Yes No No

79% 79% Don’t know/ NADon’t know/ NA

Have you everHaveHave watc you yo uhever edever watchedmovies watch bybmoviesed Serbianmovies by Serbian bybfilm Serbian directo film directors?frilms? directors?

14%

30% Yes No Don’t know/ NA 56%

19 19

As for the cultural collaboration the potential of improvement seems at its maximum. Although Asseveral for the st epscultural have collaboration been taken in the establishing potential ofvenues improvement and opportuniti seems ates of knowing bilateral arts itsand maximum. culture citizens Although need several more i nstepsformation have beenabout taken them. in A establishing full 61 percent of those asked said venuesthey wer ande not opportunities informed about of knowing joint cultural bilateral collaboratio arts and culturen events. citizens Only 28 percent said they were needaware more of them information happening. about them. A full 61 percent of those asked said they were not informed about joint cultural collaboration events. The overwhelming majority, 81 percent of those asked, are in favor of having more instancees of Only 28 percent said they were aware of them happening. cultural collaboration and only 12 percent seem not to want it. TheAre overwhelmingyou aware of th majority,e cultural 81 joo inpercentt activitie of thoses between asked, Albania are in andfavor Serbia? of having more instances of cultural collaboration and only 12 percent seem not to want it. 35 11% 28% Yes No 61% Don’t know/ NA

Should both countries organize joint cultural activities?

7% 12% Yes No 81% Don’t know/ NA

14%

14% 30% Yes No 30% YesDon’t know/ NA 56% No Don’t know/ NA 56% As for the cultural collaboration the potential of improvement seems at its maximum. Although several steps have been taken in establishing venues and opportunitie s of knowing bilateral arts andAs for cult thuere cultural citizens c onllaborationeed more in theformation potentia albout of improv them.e Ament full seem 61 pes ratcent its ofmaxi thomseum. asked Altho saiudgh theyseveral wer seteps not have infor bmeened takenabout injo iestablishingnt cultural c ollaboratiovenues andn opportuniti events. Onelsy of 28 knowi percenngt saidbilateral they a wrtsere awareand cult ofu themre citizens happ enning.eed more information about them. A full 61 percent of those asked said Albania-Serbia relations in the eyes of the Albanian Public 2015 Thethey ovewerrewhelming not infor mmedajority, about 81 jo ipntercent cultural of tchollaboratioose asked,n a events.re in favor On loyf 28 having perce mntore said instance they wesere of Areculturalaware you o fc themollaboratioaware happ ofen ning.the and cultural only 12 percent joint activitiesseem not to between want it. Albania and The overwhelming majority, 81 percent of those asked, are in favor of having more instancees of Serbia?Are you aware of the cultural jooint activities between Albania and Serbia? cultural collaboration and only 12 percent seem not to want it. Are you aware of the cultural jooint activities between Albania and Serbia?

11% 28% Yes 11% No 28% Yes 61% Don’t know/ NA No 61% Don’t know/ NA

Should both countries organize joint cultural activities?

ShouldShould b bothoth countr countriesies org anizeorganize joint culturjoint aculturall activities activities??

7% 12% Yes 7% 12% No Yes 81% Don’t know/ NA No 81% Don’t know/ NA

36 Albania-Serbia relations in the eyes of the Albanian Public 2015

3.4 Economic relations

Finally economic collaboration, trade exchange and business activity are one intensive realm of interaction. Gauging citizens’ perceptions on the potential of economic interaction between Albania and Serbia yields the following results: Half of the sample, about 51.5 percent of citizens believe that economic relations between the two countries are normal, 18.2 percent think they are good and 2.9 percent think they are very good. On the other side 10.8 percent think economic relations between the two are bad and 1.3 percent very bad. More than 15 percent did not answer or said they don’t know.

Most Albanians when asked don’t know what their country imports from Serbia, 39.2 percent of them cannot give a specific answer. The largest group of 34.4 percent believes Albania gets from Serbia wheat and flour. An additional 15.6 percent believe Albania imports processed food items while 7.2 percent think that Albania imports industrial goods. Smaller groups of 2.3 and 1.3 percent mention textiles or various other items of import.

37 Economic relations Finally economic collaboration, trade exchange and busiiness activity are one intensive realm of interaction. Gauging citizens’ perceptions on the potential of economic interaction between Albania and Serbia yields the following results: Half of the sample, about 51.5 percent of citizens believe that economic relations between the two countries are normal, 18.2 percent think they are good and 2.9 percent think they are very good. On the other side 10.8 percent think economic relations between the two are bad and 1.3 percent very bad. More than 15 percent did not answer or said they don’t know. Most Albanians when asked don’t know what their counntry imports from Serbia, 39.2 percent of them cannot give a specific answer. The largest group of 34.4 percent believes Albania gets from Serbia wheat and flour. An additional 15.6 percent believe Albania immports processed food items Albania-Serbia relations in the eyes of the Albanian Public 2015 while 7.2 percent think that Albania imports industrial goods. Smaller groups of 2.3 and 1.3 percent mention textiles or various other items of importt. How would you evaluate the relations between the two countries inHow the wo economiculd you eva area?luate the relations between the two countries in the economic area?

Don’t know 15.3

Very bad 1.3

Bad 10.8 Percent Normal 51.5

Good 18.2

Very good 2.9

0 10 20 30 40 50 60

AccordingAccordingn to to you, you, wh atwhat does does Albania Albania impor timport from Serb fromia? Serbia?

Don’t know 39.2

Other 1.3

Textiles 2.3

Industrial goods 7.2

Processed food 15.6

Wheat / flour 34.4

0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45

Percent 21

When as askedked about about Albania Albania itself asitself a potenti as aal potentialtourist destination tourist fodestinationr Serbian cit izens Albanians forthink Serbian that is actually citizens the case.Albanians 60 percent think bel ievethat that is Alactuallybania is athe tou ristcase. destina 60 tion for Serbs percentwhile 20 percentbelieve thi thatnk it Albania is not. A islarge a tourist group of destination 20 percent don’t for Serbsknow or while don’t answer the 20question percent. think it is not. A large group of 20 percent don’t know or don’tIs Alban answeria, accordi the ngnquestion. to you, a tourist destination for viisitors from Serbia? 38

20%

Yes No 20% 60% Don’t know/ NA

Don’t know 39.2

Other 1.3

Textiles 2.3

Industrial goods 7.2

Processed food 15.6

Wheat / flour 34.4

0 5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45

Percent

When asked about Albania itself as a potential tourist destination for Serbian citizens Albanians think that is actually the case. 60 percent believe that Albania is a tourist destination for Serbs Albania-Serbia relations in the eyes of the Albanian Public 2015 while 20 percent think it is not. A large group of 20 percent don’t know or don’t answer the questionIs Albania,. according to you, a tourist destination for visitors from ISerbia?s Albania, accordingn to you, a tourist destination for viisitors from Serbia?

20%

Yes No 20% 60% Don’t know/ NA

39 Albania-Serbia relations in the eyes of the Albanian Public 2015

40 Albania-Serbia relations in the eyes of the Albanian Public 2015

41 Albania-Serbia relations in the eyes of the Albanian Public 2015