North Macedonia: Controversy over independence video excluding Albanians

The Alliance for Albanians (ASH) has expressed deep concern regarding a government promotional video released to mark the 35th anniversary of the state's independence. The political group claims the video almost entirely excludes ethnic Albanians and lacks any use of the Albanian language.

Critics note that the only Albanian reference in the montage is a historical football goal by Artim Shaqiri against England. The Alliance argues that the omission of historical figures, political events, and cultural contributions constitutes an anti-Albanian political narrative. They have called on the government to withdraw the video and release a new, inclusive version that respects the country's multi-ethnic character and the contribution of all citizens to the state's history.

Furthermore, the Alliance criticized Albanian representatives within the government for their silence on the matter, suggesting that the lack of response fails to protect the dignity and identity of the Albanian community.