The role of Slovenes abroad in the international recognition of Slovenia

In: Beyond the territory within the nation: diasporic nation building in South Eastern Europe, S. 87-98

Abstract

"Zvone Zigon's article is concerned with the role of the Slovene diaspora in the process of Slovene independence. Whereas the Slovene diaspora was neither big in numbers nor politically mobilized, both changed with the break-up of Yugoslavia and the prospect of Slovene independence. As Yugoslavia responded militarily to Slovene independence, diaspora activities, especially in the US but also in other places, tried to influence American politicians to stop the war and recognize Slovene independence. Often due to the small size of the communities but also due to the context that meant they had a common adversary, Croats (that also opted for independence) and Kosovars joined in. Compared to other diaspora communities from the Former Yugoslavia, it seems that the Slovene community is the best organized one." (author's abstract)