Today, during a session at the Special Court in The Hague, the third defense witness, John Stewart Duncan, spoke about his experience with Albanians, emphasizing three distinctive traits: resourcefulness, creativity, and independence.
“From my experience with Albanians, they are highly resourceful, very creative, and independent. The international community often did not understand this initiative or this defining character of taking matters into their own hands. Albanians are very creative, and if they are effective in any undertaking—even in criminal contexts—it is not surprising because it stems from one of their core traits: finding the most effective way to achieve something. Over the years, we have seen Albanians become successful entrepreneurs and recognized experts in their respective fields,” Duncan said.
He also explained that the international community struggled to understand these traits.
“There was an assessment of Albanians that was far from the truth. Recognizing this can help significantly, especially when dealing with individuals who are simply trying to protect themselves,” he added.
When asked whether he was referring specifically to Albanians from Kosovo or Albania, Duncan clarified that he was describing the core traits of ethnic Albanians.
“I was describing the core traits of ethnic Albanians; it is not necessary to distinguish between Albanians from Albania or those from Kosovo here,” he noted.
