Sociology and Space, No. 44-45, 1974.
Review article
THE RUGOVSKA CHARTER — EXAMPLE OF SELF-MANAGEMENT CONTROL OF VENDETTA IN A KOSOVO VILLAGE
Milenko Karan
Abstract
This work reviews the wide use and nature of vendetta in Kosovo The
author gives particular attention to possibilities for controlling the blood-feud in
modern day.
According to tradition, the quarrelling parties were reconciliated by the
so-called plećnija (Council of wise Men), whereas in more recent times the
state government undertook this task. This articles however discusses the character
of the peace councils which, within the frame of the Socialist Federation,
work to prevent blood-feuds. As example of a document which helps prevent
blood-feuds in a controlled manner is the Rugovska Charter. All inhabitants of the
mentioned area in Kosovo have accepted the charter, promising they will not take
revenge among themselves in the future. The results achieved from this charter
have surpassed all optimistic expectations. After its adoption, not one murder as
a result of vendetta took place in this area. The peace council, using this charter
as its basis, gained recognition in controlling vendetta.
The author emphasizes the advantage of using such prevention methods,
which are based on traditional law, yet adopted to the modern selFmanagcment
system principles.
Keywords
Hrčak ID:
118945
URI
Publication date:
11.9.1974.
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