The College of Political Science at the University of Baghdad discussed a master’s thesis entitled “Albania’s Position in NATO After 2001: A Comparative Study” by student Khaled Abdul Munaim Rashid Khaskak.
The thesis highlighted that the Republic of Albania, classified as a small country by the United Nations, is an independent and sovereign state. It gained independence from the Ottoman Empire in 1912 and has become an important player in the Southeastern European Balkans due to its strategic geographical location and rich natural resources.
After the disintegration of the Soviet Union in 1991, Albania underwent a political transformation, shifting from a comprehensive communist system to a liberal democratic and pluralistic system. During this transition, Albania redirected its strategy from a Soviet orientation to an American one. Democratically elected Albanian governments adopted the standards set by NATO and the European Union, focusing on structural reforms in the economic and military sectors to safeguard their independence, sovereignty, and security.
Albania actively participated in various organizations, councils, programs, and activities associated with NATO, the European Union, and the United Nations. This was in preparation for its eventual accession to the alliance and the European Union. The 1990s were a significant period for Albania, as it laid the foundation for establishing a strong presence in the new international system.
In the early 21st century, in 2001, Albania entered the second phase of economic and military reforms, setting it on the path to NATO membership in 2009 and the signing of an agreement to join the European Union. These affiliations and agreements enhanced Albania’s regional and international standing. Albania faced several challenges during its democratic transition, along with various political, economic, and military changes at the local, regional, and international levels.
At the end of the discussion, the researcher was awarded a master’s degree with a “very good” rating, and we extend our best wishes for success to all our esteemed students in their academic and professional lives.
