We - The People. A study of contemporary Serbian nationalism

This thesis investigates the ways in which Serbian national identity has been constructed in the time following the dissolution of Yugoslavia until today. The thesis is a qualitative study where the primary source of data is in-depth interviews. The focus is on narratives of identity constructed through attachment to place and the use of religion as a mode of identification. The use of selective interpretations of history are highlighted in the creation of a form of identity characterised by victimhood nationalism and the denial syndrome. Building on from these narratives a discussion is made on the implications of European Union integration. Integration is found to be inhibited by lack of trust in the political system, by the perception of the EU and by conditionalities running contrary to national ideals