Official statistics admitted the existence of ethnic minorities in Albania only in 1989. The Greek minority strongly contests these statistics, which state that 98% of the population are Albanian. Located mainly in the south and identifying with Athens rather than Tirana, the Greeks claim to make up 10% of the population. They suffer considerable discrimination. Many have sought refuge in northern Greece, but tensions between the two states have also led to a number of these refugees being sent back to Albania.
Under communism, Albania was the only officially atheist state in the world. Many Albanians maintained their beliefs in private û 70% are Muslim. Religious worship is now permitted and mosques have reopened. Society is traditional and male-dominated. The extended family remains strong.
