Croatian President Zoran Milanović has publicly stated that Croats in Dalmatia and surrounding regions share common Illyrian origins with Albanians known as Arbanasi.
The remarks, which have sparked regional discussion, were reportedly made during a recent public appearance in Croatia, where Milanović emphasized historical and cultural links between Croats living in Dalmatia and Albanian communities historically referred to as Arbanasi. His statement read: “Croats who live in Dalmatia and surrounding areas have the same origin as Albanians known as Arbanasi.”
Historians note that the Illyrian theory of ethnogenesis remains a debated topic in Balkan studies, with varying interpretations across academic circles. While some scholars highlight possible cultural and linguistic overlaps in the ancient Balkans, others caution against drawing direct modern ethnic conclusions from ancient populations without stronger archaeological and genetic consensus.
The statement has drawn attention in both Croatian and Albanian public discourse, reflecting ongoing interest in shared historical narratives across the Western Balkans. It also underscores how political figures can influence cultural interpretation of ancient identities in contemporary regional dialogue.