Politics and Religion in Western Balkans: A Social, Political and Legal Analysis

Kelmend Nezha
University of Tirana, Albania

Abstract

The intersection of politics and religion in the Western Balkans has garnered significant attention in international politics in recent decades. This study delves into the influence and role of religious differences on the political climate in the region, highlighting their impact on domestic politics and international interventions. While scholars agree on the importance of religion in the politics of the Western Balkans, there is disagreement regarding its precise role. Some scholars view religion as a divisive force, citing the activities of extremist religious groups. Conversely, others argue that religious actors have a positive effect, contributing to conflict prevention and mitigation by leveraging their proximity to the public and understanding of their daily needs. Extensive research emphasizes the significant impact of religion on Western Balkan politics, highlighting its relevance as a factor that cannot be underestimated. Various global and regional actors, such as Russia and Turkey, have employed religion as a soft power tool in their diplomatic strategies towards the region, while the EU and USA have consistently emphasized the importance of improving religious freedom as part of the democratization process and updating the normative legal framework. Drawing on experiences from other ethnically diverse and conflict-ridden regions, there is reason to be optimistic about the potential role of religious actors in the Western Balkans, both presently and in the future. This paper conducts a comprehensive analysis of domestic and international political approaches in the Western Balkans, with a focus on religious dynamics over the past decades.

Presentation