Nationalism and security challenges in the Western Balkans: the unresolved Albanian question.

Abstract

This paper will place particular focus on the still unresolved Albanian question that can perhaps be seen as a possible future threat to the security of the region. By looking at the cases of Albanian national question, and trends among the Albanian population in Kosovo, the Preshevo Valley and the still somewhat fragile state of the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, this paper will make an attempt to determine whether these trends among the Albanian population have the potential to set in motion mobilizing forces that can affect the current status quo. By examining these cases and questioning a realistic possibility of a new conflict in the Balkans together with the implications of such an event will be discussed. In the past theories of nationalism have made attempts to explain similar phenomena and will no doubt be a useful asset in better understanding the topic at hand. Moreover, the recent growth of nationalism promotes or evokes ‘dreams’ of the ‘glorious past’ such as the myth of “Great Albania” or perhaps “Greater Kosovo” which could have the effect of fanning the flame if further pursued. Scattered among neighbouring states the Albanians seem to be rediscovering their nation. Just like structures in the other Balkan states the Albanian nationalists have been dreaming of their own ‘Great’ state. Do these ‘dreams’ have the potential of turning into a nightmare for all concerned? The question here is if the above mentioned is just weak nationalist rhetoric or a serious issue smouldering in the dark.