Prior to the war, Albanians believed that religions prevent bloodshed. There were reasons to believe so. Peja has been home to the Orthodox Church since the 13th century. Albanians protected the church and honored with Serbian title of Vojvoda. The Orthodox Church was seen as an important cultural site in Kosovo. During 1998 and 1999 the church closed its doors for Albanians. Doors are closed nowadays too. The church is not considering opening them; furthermore a high wall surrounds it, separating its neighbors and people of goodwill. We do hope, Serb politicians and orthodox leaders will start thinking rationally and demolish the wall to revive friendly ties with its neighbors.

Such unforeseen conditions, lingering on years after the conflict, can be dealt with education and training about human rights. While it can cure an existing ailment it also acts to prevent abuse. Varied kinds of peace education, conflict resolution and education for democracy, multi-cultural and diversity training programs are widespread all over the world, from Ireland to South Africa, from the USA to Germany, and from Israel to the Balkans. Pro-active and enlightened teachers, religious leader, journalists and politicians can prevent environment of revenge. Hate manifested in revenge or violence causes violence or war. Thinking out of the box and beyond borders, cultures, religions, language and ethnicities is important for young generations and for the world leaders.

The World Wars and conflicts in Rwanda, Bosnia, Croatia, Kosovo and many other regions around the globe have consumed millions. Politicians forgive even when they aren’t eligible to do so. Nobody can pardon on behalf of victims of a war. To forgive is good but it is personal. The Asian lesson about forgiveness is: “to teach your children about the genocide and crimes you have done in my country”. If Balkan nations, in particular Serbs will do this I believe there will be no more animosities in the Balkans.

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