Austro-Hungarian Imperial Project and its Rivals (1912-1914)

Abstract

The foreign policy of the Dual Monarchy (1912-1914) found itself wedged between different Albanian factions and conflict with Italy. The “Albanian equilibrium” was difficult to achieve for the Ballhausplatz. If they relied only on North Albanian Catholics, they would lose southern and central Albania, possibly to Serbian or Italian protectorate. An agreement with the rebel Muslims would open a crisis in Shkodër and the possibility of those areas turning to neighbouring Montenegro or being pushed into secession. That is why the struggle for a sustainable Albania was the only solution for Austria-Hungary. Faced with too many adversaries and too few allies, the Dual Monarchy failed to achieve its goals. It turned out that Italy’s solution was more pragmatic and better suited to the political situation in Albania itself. Essad Pasha Toptani, as an ally, and support for the Muslim rebels of Central Albania were a more reliable approach. Also, even though the authorities in Vienna were aware of the chaotic situation in the country, they wanted to use Albanian troops against Serbia as they prepared to invade that country in the summer of 1914. To summarise, between November 1912 and September 1914 Albania went from early stages of state-building into the state of civil war, which brought about the ultimate failure of the Austro-Hungarian imperial project. When the Imperial-Royal Army occupied the area between Shkodër and the Vjosa River in January 1916, Austria-Hungary based her policies on different premises from those before 1914.