Kosovan Independence

The shift towards Kosovan independence could lead to a resurgence of similar nationalist sentiments across the globe.

That’s according to Dr James Ker- Lindsay an expert in international conflict.

Momentum towards the creation of a separate ethnic Albanian state independent from Serbia has grown significantly following the election of Hashim Thaci as Prime Minister in the province.

The region had been reasonably stable following the rise of ethnic tensions within the Balkans over a decade ago.

Yet despite the presence of international peacekeepers thoughout the more volatile parts of the former Yugoslavia, the issues of identity that helped enthuse rivalries have not disappeared.

As Serbia looks to build greater links with the European Union it may have to reluctantly accept not only greater Kosovan autonomy, but perhaps inevitably its secession.

Fears of an Albanian superstate in the region may be unrealistic but Dr Ker- Lindsay says the re- drawing of the map could have much wider repercussions.



Article taken from www.stuartjamesross.blogspot.com on 6/2/08.