The Albanian government decided to repatriate the German and Austrian prisoners, who remained in the country during the World War II. After the war, mainly German prisoners worked in enterprises related to the country’s development. A significant portion of the troops were repatriated on June 30, 1950. About 227 German prisoners managed to be repatriated to Germany, supported by the Soviet Union. The departure was from Durrës towards East Germany, which attempted to reclaim even this small part of its citizens. The Red Cross also played a significant role in their repatriation, intervening in many countries to clarify the role of soldiers, technicians, and citizens who had been tainted with the stigma of the “invader.” This step would also strengthen relations between East Germany and official Tirana. (In 2 pictures: 1) Group of captives; 2) Document with the number of employees (German prisoners), who worked for the construction of the “Qemal Stafa” stadium.)
Text: Central State Archives
Photo: © Central State Archives
Graphic processing: AHCF
