The Duality of Historical Justice: Why Greece Expelled Muslim Cham Albanians but Kept Christian Ones

The complex history of Greece, particularly in the earliest years of the 20th century, raises profound questions about justice, morality, and historical accountability. One of the most controversial and contentious issues revolves around the treatment of Cham Albanians during the Second World War. It has long been a point of contention whether the Greek government expelled Muslim Cham Albanians solely due to their Muslim Faith or whether their collaborators' actions played a significant role in this decision. This discussion aims to explore the intricate dynamics of these events, questioning the moral consistency of the authorities' actions and the lingering impacts on today’s societal structures.

The Role of Collaboration in Historical Narratives

The collaboration of Cham Albanians with Nazi troops during World War II is a critical point in understanding their expulsion. Historically, the Cham Albanians who inhabited parts of Greece were encouraged and in some cases actively pursued collaboration with the fascist forces. This collaboration was instrumental in the recruitment of the Cham Albanian Volunteer Corps, a military unit that aligned itself with the Axis powers. The documentation of these collaborations reveals the extent to which Cham Albanians stood alongside Nazi forces, leading to their eventual expulsion following the war.

Kostas Mitsotakis and His Family Ties to Fascism

One of the most striking examples of historical links to fascism is the story of Greek Prime Minister Kostas Mitsotakis. Not only was his grandmother, Katerina Mitsotakis, seen giving flower to Nazi officers, but their family’s history deeply intertwines with the rather uncomfortable past of collaboration with Nazi regimes. Even his grandfather, former Minister Kotsias, was photographed with Nazi propaganda minister Goebbler, reminiscent of a time when Greek administrations actively supported fascist ideologies. These connections raise significant questions about the present state of affairs in Greece, as those implicated in such dark episodes continue to hold positions of power.

Broader Context and Motivations

The reasons behind the expulsion of the Cham Albanians extend beyond mere religious or diplomatic conflicts. Post-war Greece, scarred by internal divisions and the aftermath of the Civil War, created an environment where anyone associated with the Axis powers, regardless of their faith, could be branded as a collaborator. This environment fueled the decision to expel a segment of the Cham Albanian population, often as a community rather than individual members, emphasizing the collective guilt of their actions during the war.

Christian Cham Albanians and the Greek Establishment

It is also noteworthy that the Greek Orthodox establishment, which holds significant influence, was more permissive towards the Christian Cham Albanians. This marked a stark contrast to how the Muslim Cham Albanians were treated, suggesting a degree of inconsistency in the application of laws and morality. The overarching sentiment among the Greek population and leaders was that those with a Christian identity were less culpable, even if they too may have collaborated. This differentiation raises questions about the true intentions behind the expulsion and the selective application of justice.

Legacy and Evolving Perceptions

The legacies of these actions linger to this day, affecting not only historical narratives but also the current social fabric of Greece. Many of those exiled during the war are still denied access to their ancestral lands and properties, a direct result of the post-war expulsion policies. This ongoing injustice intensifies the debate on historical accountability and the role of those in power in perpetuating these conflicts.

Contemporary Greece and NATO Members

Today, Greece, as a NATO member, confronts the irony of performing acts of cooperation and unity with Albania, despite the legal state of war between the two nations that remains unaddressed. The shared membership in NATO and the mutual recognition of rights raises further questions about the nature of reconciliation and the true spirit of international cooperation in the face of historical grievances.

In conclusion, the expulsion of Cham Albanians during World War II was a multi-layered issue rooted in collaboration, religion, and historical context. The actions of those in power at the time have had lasting impacts that continue to be debated and reevaluated to this day. The ongoing quest for truth and justice underscores the need for a deeper examination of historical narratives and their impact on contemporary society.

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