How was religious freedom restored in Albania after communist rule?

Under the communist regime, which held absolute power for 45 years, Albania was officially proclaimed an atheistic country in 1967. The government systematically suppressed faith by closing all places of worship, confiscating religious property, and banning all religious observances.1

Religious freedom was restored in 1990 as part of a series of reforms initiated by Ramiz Alia in response to growing social and political pressure. Facing widespread agitation from intellectuals, the working class, and the youth, the government began to dismantle its absolute control over society. Alongside other measures—such as granting citizens the right to travel abroad and curtailing the powers of the secret police—the state officially restored the freedom of worship. Following this restoration, churches and mosques began the process of reopening.231