Identity of Kosovo from the Social Constructivist Perspective: Is Construction of a Common “Kosovar” Identity Possible in the Post-Independence Kosovo?

Abstract

This article aims to analyze the identity politics in Kosovo after the independence. It employs social constructivist approach to argue that the enmity between Albanians and the Serbs of Kosovo is not natural or primordial but socially constructed as a by-product of Albanian and Serbian national building processes. Considering nation and national identity as socially constructed and therefore a process never completed, the article claims that it is theoretically possible to construct an all embracing “Kosovar” identity in the post-independence Kosovo by emphasizing citizenship rather than ethnic or religious affinities by the new Kosovo state. However, as the independence period and its aftermath was analyzed, it was concluded that the successful formation of a Kosovar identity remains heavily dependent on the degree to which the newly established Kosovo state is able to apply constitutional principles such as supremacy of law and human rights indiscriminately to all its citizens.

Keywords

Nationalism, National Identity, Social Constructivism, Kosovo, Ahtisaari Plan.

Citation

Oktay, Emel G. and Rrapaj, Jonilda, “Identity of Kosovo from the Social Constructivist Perspective: Is Construction of a Common “Kosovar” Identity Possible in the Post-Independence Kosovo?”, International Relations, Volume 13, Issue 49, 2016, pp. 43-59.

Affiliations

• Emel G. OKTAY, Assoc. Prof., Hacettepe University, Department of International Relations
• Jonilda RRAPAJ, PhD Candidate, Ankara University, Department of International Relations