Balkan.Perspectives Podcast: 25 Years After the End of the War

Balkan.Perspectives Podcast: 25 Years After the End of the War

Author: Pro Peace - Western Balkan Program July 4, 2024 Duration: 42:04
The current edition of the Balkan Perspectives podcast by forumZFD in Kosovo delves into memorialization policies, homogeneous perspectives of the war, and dealing with the past in Kosovo. In this episode, journalist Serbeze Haxhiaj discusses these topics with Alban Bokshi, a political scientist, civil society activist, and researcher focusing on narratives of dealing with the past. Bokshi elaborates on the political landscape of memorialization and commemoration in Kosovo, shaped significantly by the war and the idealization of heroism as the ultimate truth. He dives into the contentious debate surrounding a "regime of truth" that dictates which narratives are accepted or suppressed stories that are celebrated and remembered versus those that are silenced or forgotten. Bokshi's contribution enriches the discussion on the dominant narrative that has long prioritized a singular heroic perspective, highlighting the pressing need for diversity and pluralism in historical representation.  

Produced by the Pro Peace-Western Balkan Program, The Balkan Perspectives Podcast offers a nuanced and essential audio space focused on the complex processes of Dealing with the Past and the ongoing work of Peace Education across the region. This isn't just a news recap or a business analysis, though elements of both inform the conversations; it's a dedicated effort to understand how societies navigate the aftermath of conflict and build a sustainable future. Each episode brings forward voices often unheard in mainstream narratives-educators, community leaders, historians, and peacebuilders-who are actively engaged in the difficult, granular work of reconciliation and social repair. Listeners will hear frank discussions about memory, responsibility, and the economic and social dimensions of peace, all grounded in the specific context of the Western Balkans. The podcast serves as a vital resource for anyone interested in the practicalities of non-profit work in post-conflict zones, the intersection of policy and lived experience, and the stories of resilience that define the area. By focusing on these deep, sometimes uncomfortable perspectives, the series provides clarity and insight far beyond simple headlines, fostering a more informed and empathetic understanding of a region steadfastly working towards a peaceful tomorrow.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 39

The Balkan Perspectives Podcast
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