NIKOLA PAŠIĆ I ALBANSKO PITANJE 1914-1917
NIKOLA PAŠIĆ AND THE ALBANIAN QUESTION (1914-1917)

Summary/Abstract: From the beginning of World War One Albania was the scene of conflicting interests, particularly those of Serbia, Austria-Hungary, and neutral Italy. Having discerned the various interests directed at this region, Nikola Pašić attempted to prevent Austria-Hungary, aided by Germany and Turkey, from fulfilling its intention of opening another front towards Serbia. For nearly a year he stubbornly insisted on securing strategic points in Albania, politically and materially aiding his ally Esad-Pasha Toptani, who, following the abdication and departure of Prince Wilhelm of Vid (4 September, 1914), became Albanian prime minister at a time when the country was seized by anarchy. When the pasha's rule became uncertain, pressure from the Allies for reparation toward Bulgaria and Romania reached a high point, and the intention of the Italian army to cross over to the Albanian coast became evident, Pašić permitted the Serbian army's penetration into Albania in June 1915, and the capture of Elbasan and Tirana. Pašić made two secret agreements with Esad-Pasha (on 17 September, 1914 and on 28 June, 1915). These agreements outlined Serbia's long-term interests regarding Albania, envisaging a subsequent union with Albania or its division between Yugoslavia and Greece. The Allies opposed Serbian interference in the internal affairs of Albania, considering it to be Italy's sphere of interest. The alliance with Esad-Pasha persisted despite various difficulties, proving its importance during the Serbian army's retreat through Albania and their crossing to Corfu in 1916.

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