Individual responsibility in halting the cycle of violence in Bosnia and Herzegovina (BiH)

In: International journal of peace studies, Band 22, Heft 1, S. 61-84

Abstract

Twenty-one years after the signing of the Dayton Agreement, BiH continues to face persistent socio-political tensions, a difficult economic situation and outlook as well as problems with ethnic relations. Given BiH's history of violence, heed ought to be paid to the lack of progress associated with the reconciliation process between ethnic groups. Based on analysis of in-depth interviews, carried out between 2011 and 2015, this paper argues that focusing attention on individual responsibility for the atrocities committed during the 1992-1995 war, rather than on collective guilt, will lay the groundwork to more positive intergroup relations. Collective guilt or shame contributes to negative affect, which strengthens denial and avoidance. This article discusses how perceived outgroup heterogeneity decreases long term intergroup polarization and facilitates the participation of the "other" group's members to prevent future violence. Also, this paper addresses the question of the "black sheep effectˮ, as research in social psychology demonstrates the tendency for group members to disparage an ingroup member who has violated an important social norm, rule or law. Once a reorientation toward the "other" begins, the process is likely to continue so long as it is reinforced by the ingroup as a social norm.