Growing Trend of Conversions to Catholicism in Kosovo Sparks Local Tensions

Prishtina – A growing number of citizens in Kosovo are publicly embracing Catholicism, a development that has sparked both curiosity and tension within local communities. While often described as conversions, many of those making the change insist that they are not abandoning one faith for another, but rather returning to the religion of their ancestors.

 Era and Flamur Krasniqi in a local TV show

This week, the story of Era and Flamur Krasniqi, a couple from a village in Kosovo, drew public attention after they appeared on Klan Kosova’s program “Kosova Today.” The Krasniqis explained that their decision to adopt Catholicism was made together as a family and rooted in their understanding of history.

“We are not converts. We are returning to our roots, to the faith of our forefathers,” said Flamur, who also revealed that he has received threats from fellow villagers since making the decision public.

Era echoed her husband’s words, adding that their choice was a personal and spiritual one, taken in full agreement as a couple.

Historical Context

Before the arrival of the Ottoman Empire in the Balkans during the late Middle Ages, Albanians were predominantly Christian, split between Roman Catholicism in the north and Orthodox Christianity under Byzantine tradition in the south. Centuries of Ottoman rule brought mass conversions to Islam, reshaping the religious landscape of the region.

However, Catholicism has remained deeply rooted in Kosovo and Albania, particularly in northern areas, where it played a vital role in preserving language, culture, and national identity during periods of foreign domination. Many modern-day Albanians, including intellectuals and community leaders, often emphasize that embracing Catholicism is less about conversion and more about reclaiming a historical identity that predates Ottoman rule.

A Sensitive Debate

The Krasniqi couple’s experience highlights the challenges faced by those who openly change or reclaim their faith in Kosovo. While freedom of religion is protected by law, local community pressures and lingering cultural sensitivities sometimes make such decisions controversial.

Sociologists note that this trend, though not widespread, is becoming more visible, particularly among younger generations seeking a connection with pre-Ottoman Albanian heritage.

For the Krasniqis, however, the decision has come at a personal cost. Facing criticism and even threats from neighbors, they insist that their choice reflects not only a spiritual conviction but also a deeper cultural continuity.

As Kosovo continues to shape its modern identity, stories like that of the Krasniqi couple raise broader questions about history, faith, and the evolving meaning of being Albanian in the 21st century.