On 2 February 1990, the patriotic and humanitarian initiative for the forgiveness of blood feuds (gjakmarrja) began in Kosovo under the leadership of Anton Çetta, quickly spreading across the region and leaving a lasting imprint on the Albanian national consciousness.
This effort is remembered as one of the most organized and fruitful movements in Albanian history, marking a year of unity and reconciliation among Albanians, both within Kosovo and across the diaspora.
The initiative came shortly after the formation of the Kosovo-wide Democratic League (LDK) in response to Slobodan Milošević’s oppressive policies, including his self-declaration as ‘king of all Serbs’ in Fushë-Kosovë, closure of schools, poisoning attempts, the shutdown of universities, and media censorship. The Albanian people’s awakening of national awareness was inevitable.
Led by Ibrahim Rugova and supported by well-known patriots, this movement was not about personal gain or regional dominance, but a collective effort for the homeland and national solidarity. The youth entrusted the reins of reconciliation to Anton Çetta, professors from the Albanological Institute, intellectuals, academics, workers, farmers, and activists from across all Albanian territories.
During these historic campaigns, teams of professors, students, activists, singers, and poets traveled throughout Kosovo and Albanian lands, reconciling families and communities who had long been enemies, turning conflict into friendship and brotherhood. The true heroes of this movement were those who forgave, acting out of devotion to their homeland.
Mass gatherings in towns and villages—from Kaçanik and Lug of Drini, Rrafshi i Dukagjinit, Verra e Llukës, Shalë, Karadak, Llap, Drenicë, Gollak, Has, Rekë, Podrime, Lapushë, Podgur, Rugovë, and beyond—demonstrated the awakening of national unity at a critical historical moment. The spirit of forgiveness and reconciliation initiated in 1990 continues to resonate in Kosovo and Albanian communities today, serving as a lasting testament to the power of unity over division.
