Identity, Ontological Security and Europeanisation in Republika Srpska

The book explores how the European Union's (EU) accession process affects the ethnic identity of Bosnian Serbs and the political identity of Republika Srpska (RS) in Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH). It argues that the RS political elite uses Europeanization as a context for securitizing two sources of threats, preventing the transformation of ethnic identities and desecuritizing antagonisms among ethnic groups. The EU's accession process or a clearer EU perspective alone did not outweigh the potential costs for the RS political elite if reforms aimed at creating a more functional BiH were to succeed.

Format: Hardback
Length: 220 pages
Publication date: 16 November 2023
Publisher: Springer International Publishing AG

This comprehensive book delves into the profound impact of the European Union (EU) accession process, known as Europeanization, on the formation of the ethnic identity of Bosnian Serbs and the political identity of Republika Srpska (RS) in Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH). It explores the intriguing question of why the anticipated effect of Europeanization on ethnic identities in a post-conflict environment, which involves the transformation of ethnic identities through desecuritization, fails to materialize in the case of BiH and the RS.

The book begins by assuming that the political elite in the RS strategically utilizes Europeanization as a framework to securitize two primary sources of threats: the internal and external Other. This strategic move effectively hinders the transformation of ethnic identities in BiH and, consequently, the desecuritization of antagonisms among the various ethnic groups in the country.

Through extensive analysis, the book reveals that any attempt at a more active engagement by the EU and the international community was perceived by the RS political elite as a direct threat to their interests. This perception led to a defensive stance, where any reforms aimed at creating a more functional BiH were interpreted as an attempt to undermine the RS as a political entity.

In all three critical junctures examined, the political elite in RS presented proposals for a more functional BiH as efforts to centralize the country and portrayed them as the harbinger of the RS's demise as a political entity. This narrative underscores the complex dynamics and power struggles that shape the political landscape in BiH, where the interplay between Europeanization, ethnic identities, and political aspirations plays a pivotal entity.

This book offers valuable insights into the complex interplay between European integration, national identity, and political dynamics in post-conflict regions. It sheds light on the challenges and opportunities that arise as countries navigate the process of accession to the EU, and it underscores the importance of fostering inclusive and sustainable policies that promote mutual understanding and respect among diverse ethnic groups.

Weight: 433g
Dimension: 210 x 148 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783031461682
Edition number: 1st ed. 2023