The Albanological Institute of Prishtina and the Institute of History ‘Ali Hadri’ organized a scientific roundtable titled “The Demaçi Legacy – A Unique National Value” to honor the renowned activist Adem Demaçi on the 90th anniversary of his birth.
Fadil Grajqevci, Acting Director of the Albanological Institute, emphasized the importance of revisiting Demaçi’s legacy:
“This initiative aims to bring new scholarly contributions and to better understand the legacy left by a figure who influenced the most important political, social, and cultural movements of the late 20th and early 21st centuries for Albanians, especially those under Yugoslav rule. Without Adem Demaçi, modern Kosovo’s history cannot be fully told,” Grajqevci said. He also urged political leaders to draw lessons from Demaçi’s example of integrity and dedication.
Teuta Shala-Peli, Director of the Institute of History “Ali Hadri,” highlighted Demaçi’s long-standing resistance:
“Adem Demaçi holds a special place in the political, social, and cultural history not only of Kosovo but of the entire Albanian world. His long imprisonment in Yugoslav prisons made him a symbol of resistance and sacrifice for freedom,” she said.
Prof. Dr. Hysen Matoshi noted Demaçi’s unique role as the voice of the people:
“Unlike other figures in the socialist bloc, Demaçi avoided positions of power and remained a sui generis representative of the people, voicing independent political perspectives without accountability to any leader or political party,” he said.
Prof. Dr. Arbër Hadri emphasized Demaçi’s role in mobilizing and legitimizing the Kosovo Liberation Army (UÇK):
“Demaçi’s decades of moral and political capital were crucial in consolidating the UÇK and building nationwide support for the just struggle of Kosovo Albanians against Serbian apartheid and occupation,” Hadri explained.
Adem Demaçi passed away at the age of 82. Known as the “Nelson Mandela of Europe,” he dedicated his life to Kosovo’s national cause, spending 28 years imprisoned for his activism under Yugoslav rule.
