I would argue that the word ‘independence’ is perhaps one of the most ambiguous, meaningless, or stereotypical words ever used in the modern politics with the exception of the words ‘modernity’ and ‘private’ – they all bear no real meaning.
‘Independence’ and ‘modernity’ are used so commonly that we all think we know the meaning of them, yet they have no meaning. It is very strange how human communication even allows such a linguistic phenomena to take place.
Given that Albania these days is celebrating the Independence Day, I’ve been thinking carefully about this word: what exactly its meaning is.
Apparently, when we hear the expressions such as “our country is independent,” “the legal system is independent,” “our courts of law are independent,” “the religious communities are independent,” “the media is independent” etc., they are used so bombastically that we almost think we know the meaning: yes, it’s good; independence is good. However, if we stop for a moment and think carefully, it has no meaning in the most literal sense of the word meaning itself.
Does independence mean low taxes? No!
Does it mean that we have a better government? No!
Does it mean that we have less laws controlling our lives? No!
Does it mean that the country can guarantee the people a better life? No!
Does it mean that the courts of law are fair? No!
Does it mean that our government does not steal our land, our money, our time, our energy, our future, and does not destroy our families and children? No!
Does legal independence mean that judges reach fair judicial verdicts and that they cannot be influenced by their bosses, prime ministers or kings? Not at all.
Does independence mean that laws are clear, not ambiguous, not abusive and judges have no inherent power, but simply apply the law? Not at all.
Does national independence mean that we have more individual economic freedom, less taxes, lower prices, and more intellectual freedom? Not at all – independence has nothing to do with this.
What on earth does independence mean then?
Independence means simply independence, meaning, nothing.
While people naturally are looking for better laws, lower taxes, more economic freedom, lower prices, a more affordable life, and more justice, the British Empire promises us: independence.
They say: “You’re independent. What else do you want?”
I really believe that there no more deceptive, meaningless, and abusive word than ‘independence,’ and I am not sure who has come up with this immoral and magical propaganda. Maybe the British Empire? Maybe the Devil himself? We don’t know. Yet, we know that it is an absolute deception.
People want justice, security of their property, family, and health, lower taxes, lower prices, to be left alone, live their own lives according to their values and religion, yet the British Empire give us independence instead.
Sabri Lushi
November 2024
