Disembedding conflicting identities in the Western Balkans. Conflict Sensitivity in the EU Integration Tools
Disembedding conflicting identities in the Western Balkans. Conflict Sensitivity in the EU Integration Tools

Summary/Abstract: The Future of Western Balkans (WB) is closely related to the developments in the European Union. The EU sets conditions for the region’s economic, political and social integration which, if fulfilled, could lead to membership. This EU integration model has been developed through several integration rounds for new member states. It provides numerous tools and means to assist fulfilling the EU conditions. However, through their lack of conflict-sensitivity, they are poorly equipped to foster the integration of a post-conflict society. Additionally, the current focus on economic integration impedes the necessary holistic approach to stabilize the region. In this respect, this paper discusses two cases: North Kosovo and Sandžak. Both regions still suffer from high political and social tensions.

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