Greece and the New Balkans: Themes and Histories

James Pettifer is an expert on modern Greece and its Balkan neighbors, and has been an eye-witness to many of the events that led to the ex-Yugoslav Wars. This book explores the evolution of the Macedonian crisis, the chaos and anarchy in Albania linked to the war in Kosovo, and the recent debt crisis in Greece, and analyzes the region's turbulent history with seminal papers on historiography and British foreign policy.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 232 pages
Publication date: 24 February 2022
Publisher: Signal Books Ltd

For over three decades, James Pettifer, an esteemed academic and foreign correspondent, has held a prominent position as an authority on modern Greece and its Balkan neighbors. In addition to his academic pursuits, Pettifer has been a firsthand witness to numerous events that shaped the course of the ex-Yugoslav Wars. His extensive knowledge and insights are showcased in his latest book, which brings together a selection of his most important papers and reports.

The book explores the intricate evolution of the Macedonian crisis, delving into the chaos and anarchy that engulfed Albania in the aftermath of the Kosovo war. It also examines the recent debt crisis that has plagued Greece, shedding light on the complex factors that contributed to this economic turmoil. Furthermore, the book offers insightful analyses of the region's turbulent history, encompassing seminal papers on historiography, the evolution of British foreign policy towards Greece and the wider region in the twentieth century, the nature of Montenegrin identity at the time of independence, and the shifting role of Albania in the Balkans.

One of the book's key papers, titled "The Emergence of the New Macedonian Question," sets the framework for subsequent analysis of the region. This paper examines the historical roots of the conflict between Greece and Macedonia and its implications for regional stability. It provides a comprehensive account of the events that led to the crisis and explores the various diplomatic efforts aimed at resolving it.

The end of the Cold War in 1990 was heralded as a period of stability and liberal democratic development for the Southern Balkans. However, the reality has been far from ideal. The region has experienced intermittent crises throughout these years, ranging from the implosion of impoverished Albania to the gradual collapse of Yugoslavia into fragmentation and violent conflict. The chain of events in Greece, culminating in the post-2010 financial crisis and the subsequent imposition of international control over the economy, further underscores the complex and interconnected nature of the region's challenges.

These issues have emerged against the backdrop of deteriorating relations with Turkey and an alarming climate of militarization and instability throughout the Eastern Mediterranean. The book's inclusion of material that was previously difficult to access adds to its value and provides a comprehensive understanding of the region's historical and contemporary dynamics.

For students of history, international relations, and contemporary politics, this collection is an essential tool. It offers a wealth of information and insights that will enhance their understanding of the Southern Balkans and its role in global affairs. Pettifer's expertise and storytelling abilities make the book accessible and engaging, making it an invaluable resource for anyone seeking to deepen their knowledge of this complex and fascinating region.

Weight: 342g
Dimension: 194 x 335 x 18 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781838463014