Suchergebnisse

The article deals with the image of the Balkans and its politics during the 1990s as perceived by Western politicians, public-opinion makers and even scholars. The author makes an attempt to recognize the origins of misinterpretations and stereotypy, and to recommend change of political approach.

Things in the politics of small states are not always what they appear to be. Local agendas may succeed or fail dismally according to their compatibility, or lack of it, with great power priorities. The dissolution of Yugoslavia and the breakaway of its constituent parts are certainly events generated by local actors, but the decision to grant or deny them the status of a state can also be explained by the priorities of extra-regional powers. The dynamic intervention of Russia in the controversy over Kosovo's independence streamlines Russian interests in its 'close neighbours' with the support of international legality. The US sees little intrinsic value in the Balkans and places them in the periphery of the energy-producing Eurasia and the Middle East. Unlike the other two, the EU is a supranational actor with an interest in the stabilisation and development of its own southeastern neighborhood.

Argues that Lockean liberalism, an evangelical missionary spirit, and pragmatism form three core elements of US foreign policy; focus on the Cold War and post-Cold War period.

Reports on research project on peaceful conflict management and solutions to Kosovo crisis conducted by the Hellenic Foundation for European and Foreign Policy, including Albanian and Serbian experts; since 1995.