Religion, Nationalism, and Identity in the Balkans after 2000: Obstacles and Negotiated Outcomes
July 06-12, 2026, Skopje/N. Macedonia
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The International Balkan Summer School, titled “Religion, Nationalism, and Identity in the Balkans after 2000: Obstacles and Negotiated Outcomes,” offers a unique space for postgraduate students, doctoral candidates, and researchers to come together and reflect on the complex realities shaping the Balkans today. In an engaging and collaborative environment, participants will explore how religion, nationalism, and identity continue to influence societies across the region, especially in the context of migration, memory politics, and state-building. Through experts lectures, interactive panels, and workshops, the program encourages open dialogue, critical thinking, and meaningful exchange across disciplines.

Beyond academic discussion, the Summer School is designed to support participants’ professional growth by strengthening research and academic writing skills while fostering valuable connections with scholars and peers from different backgrounds. Applicants are invited to submit a proposal related to the program’s theme, which will be evaluated through a blind peer-review process to ensure high academic standards. Selected papers presented during the program will be published by the IDEFE Publication, giving participants the opportunity to share their work with a wider scholarly community and contribute to ongoing debates about the region’s contemporary transformations.
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Important dates: 

April 15, 2026 – Deadline for proposal submission

April 25, 2026 – Announcement of accepted proposals

June 25, 2026 – Deadline for full paper submission

July 01, 2026 – Announcement of the IBSS program

July 06-12, 2026 (Monday-Sunday) – Implementation of the IBSS

November 10, 2026 – Publication of the selected papers
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Registration and Submission Link: https://forms.gle/ZoNHKoPgvu4QoqX47

For further information visit: https://balkansummerschool.com/

Contact us: info@balkanfoundation.com

9-11 October 2026
Skopje/North Macedonia
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The International Balkan Studies Congress is an international event organized to promote interdisciplinary studies in the field of social sciences, contributing to qualified and original academic output. The 6th International Balkan Studies Congress is being organized by Balkan Studies Foundation and is supported by the Presidency for Turks Abroad and Related Communities, Istanbul Medeniyet University, International University of Sarajevo, University of New York Tirana, South East European University, and HUN-REN Centre for Economic and Regional Studies-Institute for Regional Studies. The Congress will be held in Skopje, North Macedonia.

The International Balkan Studies Congress aims to create a networking environment among academics in the Balkan region, fostering the academic and scientific atmosphere within the region, and developing scientific methodology in the Balkans. Previous Congresses have hosted more than 200 participants from the countries of the Balkans, as well as Türkiye, Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, North Macedonia, Greece, Serbia, Kosovo, Azerbaijan, Greece, Slovenia, Austria, Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, USA, Nigeria, Romania, Slovakia and Morocco. The 1^st International Balkan Studies Congress was held in Skopje, the 2^nd International Balkan Studies Congress in Tirana, the 3^rd International Balkan Studies Congress in Istanbul, the 4^th International Balkan Studies Congress in Sarajevo, the 5^th International Balkan Studies Congress was held in Skopje, and this year it will once again be held in Skopje.

The Congress applies the blind peer review system; the abstracts and full papers that are submitted will be accepted after being evaluated by reviewers who are experts in their field. The papers chosen at the end of the Congress will be published by the Balkan Studies Foundation to admit the presentations taking place at the Congress to the scientific world.
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Registration and Submission Link: https://forms.gle/P68tLgudTGGAgxQq8

For further information visit: www.congressbalkan.com

Contact us: info@balkanfoundation.com

Today we held an inclusive and highly meaningful discussion on the factors influencing youth migration and their perceptions of the labor market in North Macedonia. The panel brought together field experts and youth representatives who shared valuable analyses and well-informed perspectives.

With the moderation of Assoc. Prof. Dr. Bujamin Bela and the academic contributions of Assist. Prof. Dr. Elisabeta Bajrami Ollogu and Assist. Prof. Dr. Arta Xhelili, as well as the professional interpretation of the study results, the debate deepened and the current challenges of the labor market were highlighted.

Discussions emphasized that the phenomenon of “brain drain” should not be viewed as an irreversible process; with evidence-based policies, investment in youth potential, and the creation of favorable conditions for development, it is possible to encourage “brain circulation” – the return of young people equipped with knowledge, skills, and experience gained abroad.

]]> https://balkanfoundation.com/panel-discussion-on-the-report-lost-potential-understanding-youth-migration-drivers-and-labor-market-perceptions-in-north-macedonia-is-completed/feed/ 0 https://balkanfoundation.com/panel-discussion-on-the-report-lost-potential-understanding-youth-migration-drivers-and-labor-market-perceptions-in-north-macedonia/ https://balkanfoundation.com/panel-discussion-on-the-report-lost-potential-understanding-youth-migration-drivers-and-labor-market-perceptions-in-north-macedonia/#respond Sat, 06 Dec 2025 11:05:18 +0000 https://balkanfoundation.com/?p=6365 Panel Discussion on the Report

LOST POTENTIAL: Understanding Youth Migration Drivers and Labor Market Perceptions in North Macedonia
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Migration intentions among youth in North Macedonia are complex and multidimensional, often oscillating between temporary mobility and permanent resettlement.
According to the “Lost Potential” report by Elisabeta Bajrami Ollogu and Arta Xhelili, nearly half of the surveyed youth (49.8%) prefer temporary emigration, suggesting a desire for circular migration rather than a permanent severance of ties. This finding presents a vital window for policy intervention.
The research posits that “brain drain” can be transformed into “brain circulation” if domestic conditions improve. The data corroborates this: 46.6% of potential emigrants express a willingness to return to North Macedonia, contingent upon the stabilization of socioeconomic conditions.This study serves as a call for evidence-based strategies that address the root causes of youth dissatisfaction—specifically, the need for professional development, meritocracy, and economic stability.

Date: 09 December 2025, Tuesday
Time: 17:00
Venue: Balkan Studies Foundation
Link for application: https://forms.gle/YXQF84dhygV6DKLe8

The conference was organised by Balkan Studies Foundation and Worldwide Lawyers Association. Also supported by Istanbul University, Turkish Cooperation and Coordination Agency, International University of Sarajevo and the University of Sarajevo Institute of History. The conference begins with opening remarks from:

• Assist. Prof. Dr. Hasan Basri Bülbül, Chair of the Organising Committee
• Atty. Enes Kafadar, President of WOLAS
• Dr. Sevba Abdula, Director of the Balkan Studies Foundation
• Prof. Dr. Ali Osman Kuşakçı, Rector of the International University of Sarajevo
• Prof. Dr. Osman Bülent Zülfikar, Rector of Istanbul University

Bringing together leading academics, experts, and practitioners, the event provides a comprehensive platform to examine the legal, diplomatic, and political legacy of the Dayton Agreement. It offers in-depth discussions on its long-term impact, the challenges it continues to pose, and its broader implications for the future of peacebuilding and regional stability. The international conference had 17 presentations in 6 sessions.
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The 5th International Balkan Studies Congress, organized by the Balkan Studies Foundation in collaboration with Istanbul Medeniyet University, HUN-REN Centre for Economic and Regional Studies – Institute for Regional Studies, University of Tetova, South East European University, and İLEM Association, with the support of the Presidency for Turks Abroad and Related Communities, has been successfully concluded.

Held between September 5–7, 2025, at the Balkan Studies Foundation in Skopje, North Macedonia, the congress brought together distinguished scholars and researchers to discuss the rich and complex history, culture, and politics of the Balkans.

The opening ceremony featured remarks by Prof. Dr. Gülfettin Çelik, Rector of Istanbul Medeniyet University, and Dr. Sevba Abdula, President of the Balkan Studies Foundation. Following the opening, Prof. Dr. Şener Aktürk delivered the keynote speech titled “Nationalism and Religion in Global Comparative Historical Perspective.”

Throughout the three-day program, 61 participants from 11 countries—Türkiye, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Greece, Serbia, Bulgaria, Albania, Kosovo, North Macedonia, Kazakhstan, Austria, and Uzbekistan—presented their peer-reviewed papers. In total, 18 sessions with 61 presentations were held, offering valuable insights into the region’s past and present.

Beyond the academic sessions, the congress also included a study visit to Ohrid on September 7, providing participants with the opportunity to engage with the cultural and historical heritage of North Macedonia.

The congress served not only as a platform for sharing innovative research but also as a space for fruitful discussions on the Balkans’ current challenges and future prospects. The program concluded with a Closing and Evaluation Session, during which the outcomes were assessed and potential future collaborations discussed.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all participants, academics, and volunteers whose contributions made this congress a success. We look forward to continuing to strengthen collaborations and further advancing the field of Balkan Studies.
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Session I | Moderator: Prof. Dr. Gülfettin Çelik

》Rum İli’nde Horasanî Bir Eren: Şeyh Lütfullah Üskübî – Eren Atala Eriş

》İstanbul’dan Makedonya’ya Bakmak: Bulgar Eksarhı Yosif’in Gözünden İlinden Ayaklanması (1903) – Dr. Ergün Hasanoğlu

》Cumhuriyet İstanbul’unda Balkan Kökenli Üç Hoca: Hasip Yardımcı, Hüsrev Aydınlar, İsmail Bayrı – Dr. Mehmet Erken

》19. ve 20. Yüzyılda Balkanlarda Bir Osmanlı Müftüsünün Biyografisi: Ohrili Mehmed Dehhar Efendi (Ö. 1915’ten Sonra) – Gülsüm Gülsev Şanver
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Session II | Moderator: Prof. Dr. Faruk Bal

》The Historical Importance of the Illyrian Tribes in Albania in the Classical Age through Red-Figure Pottery – Jani Koçillari

》The 19th Century Three-Aisled Basilica with an Arcaded Portico. Its Origin, Evolution, and Dissemination in the Southern Balkans and Asia Minor – Prof. Dr. Thaleia Panagiotopoulou
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Session III | Moderator: Dr. Sevba Abdula

》Sırbistan’ın Voyvodina Özerk Bölgesi’nin Geleceği Politics Türkiye – Assist. Prof. Dr. Figen Aydın

》İnsanlığın Değişim Serüveni Bağlamında Bulgaristan Müslümanlarının Mezhepsel Kimlikleri ve Değişim Dinamikleri – Assist. Prof. Dr. Şabanali Ahmed
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Session IV | Moderator: Assist. Prof. Dr. Mustafa Sacid Öztürk

》Balkanlar’da “Fesat”ın Yeni Aktörleri: Kont Cavour ve Giuseppe Garibaldi (1859-1861) – İlkay Kirişçioğlu

》Osmanlı Tarih Yazımında Hamilik İlişkilerinin Gücü ve Yansımaları: Lala Mehmed Paşa ve Peçuylu İbrahim Efendi – Dr. Özlem Yılmaz

》Eğitime Adanmış Bir Miras: Yorgo Zarifi’nin Hayırseverlik Faaliyetleri – Yağmur Sedef

Balkanlı Âlimlerin Siyasetnâmelerinde Adalet Anlatısı – Faruk Yılmaz
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Session V | Moderator: Dr. Sevba Abdula

》Balkan Ülkelerindeki Bilgi Merkezi Yangınları ve Sosyal Etkileri – Prof. Dr. Alpaslan Hamdi Kuzucuoğlu

》Üsküp Depremi ve İletişim Krizleri – Gamze Aydın

》19. Yüzyılın Başlarında Üsküp Yangınları – Ruhat Demir
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Session VI | Moderator: Hanife Etem

》Sultan II. Abdülhamid Döneminde Pirlepe’deki İmar ve Bayındırlık Faaliyetleri – Dr. Yunus Güler

》Common Characteristics of Ottoman Mosques in Novi Pazar History Serbia – Dr. Zehra Škrijelj

》Bir İstanbul İaşesi Sorunu Olarak Osmanlı Makedonyasından Payitahta Koyun Temini Meselesi (1566-1597) – Assoc. Prof. Dr. Galip Çağ

》Ahmed Gurbi Baba’s Tomb in Novi Pazar – Enisa Huseinovic
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Session VII | Moderator: Yunus Dilber

》Avusturya Konsolosluk Raporlarına Göre II. Meşrutiyet Döneminde Üsküp’te Siyasi Faaliyetler – Osman Kara

》1908-1913 Yılları Arasında Berlin Elçiliği’nin Makedonya Bölgesindeki Faaliyetlerine Dair Rapor – Assist. Prof. Dr. Rıdvan Kaşıkçı

》British Liberal Politics in the Macedonian Question (1903–1914) – Assoc. Prof. Dr. Fahriye Begüm Yildizeli

》Birinci Dünya Savaşında Osmanlı Devleti ve Bulgaristan Arasında Batı Trakya Meselesi – Murat Bozkurt
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Session VIII | Moderator: Dr. Besnik Emini

》Bir Hristiyan Mektebinde Müslüman Din Adamı Yetiştirme Projesi: Selanik Aristoteles Üniversitesi İslam İlimlerine Giriş Bölümü – Prof. Dr. Salih İnci

》Nastavni Plan i Program Gazi Isabegove Centralne Reformske Medrese u Skoplju (1936 – 1942) – Assoc. Prof. Dr. Zećir Ramčilović

》Cumhuriyet’in İlk Yıllarında Trakya’da Milli Kimlik İnşası ve Kültürel Politikalar – Merve İstil

》Të dhëna statistikore për të vrarët nga territoret shqiptare në frontin osman gjatë Luftës së Parë Botërore (1914-1918): Analizë historike dhe statistikore – Agon Krasniqi
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Session IX | Moderator: Prof. Dr. Ahmet Koçak

》Toprağın Vatan Edinmek: Emine Işınsu’nun Azap Toprakları ve Çiçekler Büyür Romanlarında Balkanlar – Prof. Dr. Ahmet Koçak

》Manastir Kadi Sicillerinde Boşanma Davaları Üzerine Hukukî Bir Değerlendirme – Assist. Prof. Dr. Abdussamed Atasoy

》Osmanlı Devleti’nde Huzur Derslerine Katılan Kuzey Makedonyalı Âlimler – Assoc. Prof. Dr. Muhammed Alparslan Kartal
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Session X | Moderator: Assist. Prof. Dr. Elmin Aliyev

》Şumnu Âyanı Çavuşzâde Seyyid İsmail Ağa ve Faaliyetleri (1780-1801) – Alper Kağan Kıraç

》Midhat Paşa’nın Reformlarının Bir Örneği Olarak Niş Kalesi’ndeki Hapishane – Amina Lila

》Selanik’ten İstanbul’a – Osmanlı’dan Cumhuriyete Bir Doktorun Hikâyesi: Dr. Ethem Bakar (1877-1945) – Assist. Prof. Dr. Ömer Faruk Can

》Vidin Muhafızı İdris Paşa ve Kitap Vakıflığı – Dr. Ayşenur Erdoğan
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Session XI | Moderator: Assist. Prof. Dr. Ahmet Köroğlu

》Türkiye’deki Balkan Göçmen Topluluklarının Sosyal Medya Hesaplarındaki Kimlik Yansımaları: Niceliksal Bir İnceleme – Dr. Nasıf Ali Ünügür

》Echoes of 1914 in 2025: Srebrenica, World War I, and the Unsettled Terrain of Memory – Meldin Kešetović

》Türkiye’nin Balkan Ülkelerine Yönelik Eğitim Faaliyetleri; Sistematik Bir Analiz – Prof. Dr. Sadık Kartal
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Session XII | Moderator: Dr. Sevba Abdula

》NATO, the EU and Regional Security in the Western Balkans – Dr. Ahmet Üçağaç

》Siyasi Liderlerin Dış Politikaya Etkisi Bağlamında II. Simeon ve Hareketi (2001-2009): Neoklasik Realist Bir Analiz – Dr. Mustafa Işık

》Batı Medyasının Haber Söylemlerinde Balkan Jeopolitiğinin Temsili ve Algı İnşası – Dr. Burçak Kadıoğlu

》Coğrafi ve Kültürel Sınır Tanımlamaları Üzerinden Balkanların Yeniden Tahlili – Dr. Erdem Eren
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Session XIII | Moderator: Assist. Prof. Dr. Rıdvan Kaşıkçı

》Bir Rus Subayının Hatıratında Kırım Savaşı Sırasında Tuna Boyları (1853-1854) – Dr. Yunus Emre Aydın

》Giuseppe Garibaldi’s Balkan Plans: A View from the Ottoman Records (1860–1862) – Anıl Göç

》XVI. Yüzyıl Sünnilik Dışı Unsurlarla Mücadele ve Sofyalı Bâlî Efendi – Assist. Prof. Dr. Sadık Tezin

》Osmanlı Rumelisi’nde Ayanlık, İsyan ve Sadakat: Ohri Mütesellimi Celâleddin Bey Üzerine Bir İnceleme – Dr. Nalan Karaöz
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Session XIV | Moderator: Dr. İlhan Süzgün

》Hüzün Ortaklığı’ndan Metinlerarasılığa: Alfred de Musset ve Bir Zamane Çocuğu’nun İtirafları’nın Gölgesinde Halit Ziya Uşaklıgil’in Mai ve Siyah’ı – Barkın Burak Bingöl

》Üsküplü Fettah Efendi ve Balkan Türk Şiirinde Kimlik Arayışı – Betül Aksakal

》Yahya Kemal’in Eserlerinde Vatan, Balkanlar ve Üsküp Mefhumu – Dr. Taner Güçlütürk
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Session XV | Moderator: Dr. Mümin Ali

》Ivo Andrić’in Drina Köprüsü ile Faik Baysal’ın Drina’da Son Gün Adlı Romanlarında Türk ve Sırp İmgesi – Prof. Dr. Özlem Fedai

》Toplumsal Hafıza ve Gerçekliğin Temsili Bağlamında “Balkanlar Benim Yurdum” Belgeselinin Analizi – Assist. Prof. Dr. Hüdai Ateş

》Kalimi i Gjuhës Shqipe në Alfabetin Latin: Kongresi i Manastirit dhe Reflektimet në Shtypin e Kohës – Majlinda Misini

》“Bulgaristan Türk Çocuk Edebiyatından Örnekler” Üzerinden Bir Kültür ve Hafıza Aktarımı Olarak Çocuk Edebiyatı Metinleri – Sevilay Öztürk
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Session XVI | Moderator: Dr. Mustafa Işık

》Bulgarian Merchants and the Construction of National Identity in the 19th Century: The Cultural Transformation of Economic Capital – Esra Kızıl

》Osman Keskioğlu ve Ayetlerin Tefsirinde İzlediği Yöntem – İbrahim Tefik

》Şerhu Kitâbı’l-Ahlâk’ı (Şerhu Ahlâkı Adûd) Bağlamında Müneccimbaşı Ahmed Dede’nin (ö. 1113/1702) Eğitim Anlayışı – Zehra Kumru

》The Impact of Social Media on Political Communication in North Macedonia – Elvije Kadrija
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Session XVII | Moderator: Elif R. Nazim

》From Kings to Sultans: Changes in Bosnia’s Population Structure under the Influence of the Ottoman Empire – Samir Sinanović

》The Impact of Social Media on Political Communication in North Macedonia – Elvije Kadrija

》An Analysis of Albania’s Advancement in Civil and Political Rights Following Its Accession to the Council of Europe – Dr. Marsida Tafilica
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Session XVIII  |  Moderator: Zehra A. Sadiki

》Balkanizm ve Türkistanizm Kavramlarını Postkolonyal Teoriler Işığında Tartışmak – Faizulla Toltay

》Navigating Autonomy: The Historical Struggle of Sanjak’s Bosniaks – Fatih Uzunali

》Kriz Liderliği Bağlamında Aliya İzzetbegoviç’in Stratejik ve Etik Liderlik Yaklaşımı – Dr. Selma İpek

The 5th International Balkan Studies Congress commenced with the keynote address delivered by Prof. Dr.  Şener Aktürk of Koç University, Istanbul, titled “Nationalism and Religion in Global Comparative Historical Perspective.” In his lecture, Professor Aktürk examined the enduring nexus between nationalism and religion, a theme that has been central to his scholarly work for over two decades. He structured his analysis around three key puzzles: the historical roots of religious homogeneity in Western Europe, the ways in which religiosity can either reinforce or moderate nationalism, and the conditions under which political leaders from religious minority backgrounds rise to the highest offices of the state.

Drawing upon his recent open-access publications, he presented a comparative typology of national-religious configurations and highlighted how formative conflicts in nation-building processes have shaped distinct trajectories across different societies. His keynote offered both a broad historical perspective and a contemporary analytical framework, situating the Balkans within wider global debates on the complex interrelations of faith, identity, and political authority.

On September 4, 2025, the Balkan Studies Foundation successfully organized the workshop titled “Balkan Studies in the 21st Century: Debates, Opportunities, and Constraints.”

Researchers and academics from different disciplines participated in the workshop, addressing current trends in Balkan studies and developing common grounds for future perspectives. The participants discussed the research themes that Balkan studies have focused on so far, the challenges encountered, and the opportunities ahead; they also exchanged ideas on new research areas and potential collaborations.

Key topics highlighted during the workshop included theoretical approaches, methodological issues, debates on identity, nation, religion, and culture, regional politics, economy and international relations, cultural heritage, literature, art and media, as well as digitalization and academic cooperation.

The event brought together distinguished participants, including Prof. Dr. Gülfettin Çelik, Dr. Sevba Abdula, Prof. Dr. Şener Aktürk, Prof. Dr. Abdülmecid Nuredin, Prof. Dr. Musa Musai, Prof. Dr. Lokman Turan, Prof. Dr. Faruk Bal, Dr. Mustafa Sacid Öztürk, Assist. Prof. Dr. Elmin Aliyev, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Bujamin Bela, Assoc. Prof. Dr. Jordan Delev, Dr. Cüneyd Nur, Dr. Yunus Dilber, Osman Demirgül, Alirıza Altunel, Eran Hasip, Mahmud Emini, and Cengiz Destan.

“21. Yüzyılda Balkan Çalışmaları: Tartışmalar, İmkanlar, Kısıtlar” Çalıştayı Gerçekleştirildi

04 Eylül 2025 tarihinde, Balkan Çalışmaları Vakfı’nda “21. Yüzyılda Balkan Çalışmaları: Tartışmalar, İmkanlar, Kısıtlar” başlıklı çalıştay başarıyla gerçekleştirildi.

Çalıştaya farklı disiplinlerden araştırmacılar ve akademisyenler katılarak Balkan çalışmalarının güncel yönelimlerini ele aldı ve geleceğe dair ortak düşünce zeminleri geliştirdi. Katılımcılar, Balkan çalışmalarının bugüne kadar odaklandığı araştırma konularını, karşılaşılan zorlukları ve fırsatları değerlendirdi; yeni araştırma alanları ve iş birlikleri üzerine fikir alışverişinde bulundu.

Çalıştayda öne çıkan başlıklar arasında teorik yaklaşımlar, metodolojik sorunlar, kimlik, ulus, din ve kültür tartışmaları, bölgesel siyaset, ekonomi ve uluslararası ilişkiler, kültürel miras, edebiyat, sanat ve medya ile dijitalleşme ve akademik işbirlikleri yer aldı.

Etkinlik, aralarında Prof. Dr. Gülfettin Çelik, Dr. Sevba Abdula, Prof. Dr. Şener Aktürk, Prof. Dr. Abdülmecid Nuredin, Prof. Dr. Musa Musai, Prof. Dr. Lokman Turan, Prof. Dr. Faruk Bal, Dr. Mustafa Sacid Öztürk, Dr. Elmin Aliyev, Doç. Dr. Bujamin Bela, Dr. Cüneyd Nur, Dr. Yunus Dilber, Osman Demirgül, Alirıza Altunel, Dr. Jordan Delev, Eran Hasip, Mahmud Emini ve Cengiz Destan’ın da bulunduğu değerli katılımcılarla gerçekleşti.

The International Balkan Summer School 2025, themed “Contemporary Challenges in the Balkans: EU & Migration,” brought together academics, researchers, and students from across the region to explore issues at the intersection of EU & Migration. The program opened with remarks by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Bujamin Bela, who underscored the importance of academic collaboration and regional dialogue in addressing the evolving challenges of the Balkans. Following with, Prof. Dr. Sead Turčalo who delivered a compelling keynote lecture titled “Migration and Security Challenges in the Western Balkans”. Throughout the program, participants engaged with lectures by Prof. Dr. Admir Mulaosmanović examined how historical migration patterns continue to shape the region’s political and social landscape, focusing on memory, identity, and forced migration and Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ibrahim Krasniqi offered a critical analysis of economic inequality and its impact on migration.

In a series of workshops, young researchers presented studies on EU migration policies, integration challenges, and cultural transitions. These sessions featured insightful contributions from Busejra Daci, Bilgehan Oğuz, Samir Sinanović, Arben Meta, Lorenca Bejko, Georgios Antonopoulos, Şengül İnce, Alexandros Zyka, and Amina Hadžić, each bringing unique national and thematic perspectives to the discussion. Concluding the academic program, Prof. Dr. Mevludin Ibish delivered an engaging lecture titled “EU at the Crossroads: Between an Active Global Competitor and a Passive Global Spectator,” examining the EU’s evolving global role and its implications for the Balkans. The 2025 edition of the Internacional Balkan Summer School was marked by rich intellectual exchange, cross-border cooperation, and a shared commitment to understanding the multifaceted challenges shaping the region. Through lectures, workshops, and open dialogue, the program succeeded in fostering critical conversations and strengthening academic networks across the Balkans and beyond.

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The 30th Anniversary Conference of the Srebrenica Genocide has officially took place at the Balkan Studies Foundation in Skopje.

In the opening session, speeches were delivered by:

• Mr. Afrim Gashi, President of the Assembly of the Republic of North Macedonia
• Mr. Munir Kolasić, President of the Bosniak Democratic Union
• Mr. Muammer Džananović, Institute for Research of Crimes Against Humanity and International Law, Sarajevo
• Mr. Enes Kafadar, President of the Worldwide Lawyers Association
• Mr. Qenan Ismaili, Mufti of Skopje
• Assoc. Prof. Dr. Bujamin Bela, Director of the Center for Political, Economic, and Social Research
• Dr. Sevba Abdula, Director of the Balkan Studies Foundation
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The opening conference was delivered by Prof. Dr. Satvinder Juss, a distinguished legal scholar from King’s College London.

Their remarks marked the beginning of a meaningful program dedicated to remembering the victims, confronting the past, and reinforcing the commitment to justice and peace.

Sessions held today:

Session 1: The Struggle for Truth, Justice, and Confronting the Past

Moderator: Assist. Prof. Dr. Hasan Basri Bülbül

• Denial of Genocide Against Bosniaks in Srebrenica: From Concealing Mortal Remains to the UN Resolution on Genocide – Dr. Muamer Džananović
• Legal Dilemmas of the UN’s Responsibility for the Srebrenica Genocide – Assist. Prof. Dr. Muhammet Celal Kul
• The Evolution and Application of the Joint Criminal Enterprise ( JCE) Doctrine: From the Tadić Judgment to the Srebrenica Cases – Sümeyye Koman
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Session 2: Genocide, Memory, and Historiography

Moderator: Dr. Muamer Džananović

• Remembering the Forgotten Expulsions of Muslims from the Balkans (1680s–1860s) – Prof. Dr. Mehmet Hacısalioğlu
• Admissions of Guilt for the Srebrenica Genocide and Their Importance in Confronting the Past – Dr. Jasmin Medić
• Traces of the Genocide of Srebrenica in Literature: Testimony, Memory and Narrative – Dr. İlhan Süzgün
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Session 3: Media Narratives and Foreign Policy Responses

Moderator: Prof. Dr. Mehmet Hacısalioğlu

• Between Faith and Survival: The Political Landscape of Srebrenica (1988-1992) – Meldin Kešetović
• In Service of Evil: Instrumentalization of the Public Administration in Republika Srpska in Denying, Minimizing, and Glorifying the Srebrenica Genocide – Harun Išerić
• The Turkish Media’s Reaction to the Srebrenica Massacre (1995): Media Discourse and Political Approach – Agon Krasniqi
• Bosnia-Herzegovina War and Srebrenica Massacre in Bulgarian Foreign Policy (1992-1995) – Dr. Mustafa Işık

Join the International Balkan Summer School (IBSS) as a Participant!

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The International Balkan Summer School (IBSS) offers a unique opportunity to explore the Balkans’ dynamic socio-political landscape. Participants will engage with distinguished lecturers from Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, Türkiye, North Macedonia and researchers.
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Who Can Apply:
Bachelor’s and Master’s students, as well as individuals from any academic background, are welcome to attend.
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Event Details:

• Dates: July 14–19, 2025
• Location: Balkan Studies Foundation , Skopje, North Macedonia
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Please Note:
Participants are responsible for their own travel and accommodation, as the program does not provide logistical support.
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Application Process:

To attend as an audience member, please complete the application form:
https://forms.gle/NC8t1U5trEBdSSnu8

For more information about the program, visit the official IBSS website:
https://balkansummerschool.com/

We look forward to your participation in this enriching academic experience.

Editors: Sevba Abdula, Ali Erken, Admir Mulaosmanović

Balkan Studies Foundation 
Center for Political, Economic and Social Research 
IDEFE Publications – Book Series

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Invitation to Contribute

We invite scholars, researchers, and experts to contribute to a forthcoming volume in our “Balkan Politcs Series (Academic Editorial)”, dedicated to Balkan Politics: State-Religion affairs in the Balkans after 1991. This volume aims to present a comprehensive analysis of Balkan Countires state-religion affairs such as secularism, religion and identity, political theology, Islamic communities, etc.

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Topics:

Contributors are encouraged to explore, but not limited to, the following thematic areas:

• Secularism and Secularization 
• Church-State Relations, Islamic Communities-State relations
• Religious Influence on Politics
• Religion and Law 
• Political Theology 
• Religion and Identity Politics 
• Comparative Religion and Politics
• Religious Nationalism
• Religion and Human Rights
• Religion, Cooperation and Conflict

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General Framework:

• Chapter Summary: A 750–1,000-word abstract outlining the chapter’s main arguments, methodology, and key findings.
• Full Chapter Length: 6,000–9,000 words, including footnotes.
• Language: English only.
• Formatting:
  • Use Microsoft Word (.docx format)
  • Page margins: 2.5 cm on all sides
  • Font: Times New Roman, size 12, line spacing 1.5
  • Title: Uppercase, bold, font size 14
  • Subheadings: Lowercase, font size 12
  • Tables and figures should be indicated in lowercase and sequentially numbered with footnotes placed directly below the table. Avoid duplication of data presented in both tables and the main text.
  • Tables should be taken to use as few tables as possible. The data presented in the tables should be avoided to match the data presented in the text.
• Peer Review and Publication: Contributions will undergo peer review for quality and relevance.
• Honarium: There will be a remuneration for the written contribution.

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Schedule:

• Deadline for Abstract Submission: 25 June 2025
• Notification of Accepted Abstracts: 05 July 2025
• Deadline for Full Chapter Submission: 05 October 2025
• Announcement of Accepted Chapters: 20 October 2025
• Peer Review Period: 10 November 2025
• Final Revised Submission: 20 November 2025
• Publication of Book: December 2025
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Application Link:

https://forms.gle/33JzNEu7vbBKYYjd9

We look forward to your contributions to this significant academic effort examining the state-religion affairs in the Balkans after 1991.

Editors: Bujamin Bela, Ü.Serdar Serdaroğlu, Kujtim Hameli

Balkan Studies Foundation
Center for Political, Economic and Social Research
IDEFE Publications – Book Series

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Invitation to Contribute

We invite scholars, researchers, and experts to contribute to the upcoming volume of the Balkan Economies Series (Academic Editorial) titled Balkan Economies: Structure, Transition, and Transformation of Kosovo, 2008–2024. This volume aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of Kosovo’s economic transformation since its declaration of independence, focusing on historical context of economy, structural changes, institutional developments, sectoral dynamics, banking and financial sector, and socioeconomic impacts, etc.  
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Topics: 

Contributors are encouraged to explore, but not limited to, the following thematic areas:

• From Legacy to Launch: Economic Structures and Institutional Inheritance Before Independence
  (Explores the historical-economic foundations inherited from the Yugoslav period, the 1999–2008 UN administration, and how they shaped the post-2008 economy.)
• Building an Economy from Scratch: Kosovo’s Early Economic Strategies and Post-Independence Shock
  (Critically assesses foundational economic policies, currency adoption, fiscal policy design, and macroeconomic stabilization efforts.)
• Between Aspirations and Dependencies: EU Integration, Foreign Aid, and the Economics of Reconstruction
  (Analyzes how EU aspirations shaped policies, and the long-term implications of aid-dependence and post-war reconstruction.)
• Walls and Windows: Kosovo’s FDI Challenges and Trade Imbalances in a Landlocked Economy
  (Evaluates structural and political barriers to FDI, Kosovo’s trade deficit, and what future potential exists for investment attraction.)
• The Missing Middle: Labor Market Dualities, Youth Exodus, and Female Unemployment
  (Explores unemployment as both an economic and social challenge, with emphasis on youth, women, and the informal sector.
• The Silent Engine: How SMEs and Informal Entrepreneurs Drive Kosovo’s Post-Conflict Economy
  (Focuses on entrepreneurship culture, informal economies, innovation ecosystems, and access to finance for small businesses.)
• The Fields and the Factories: Agricultural Persistence and Industrial Stagnation
  (Examines the evolution, neglect, and reform of Kosovo’s primary and secondary sectors.)
• The Rise of Services: ICT, Retail, and the New Urban Economy
  (Maps the rapid growth of services, digitalization trends, and their contribution to GDP and employment.)
• Financial Foundations: Banking, Microfinance, and Monetary Policy in a Euroized Economy
  (Explores how Kosovo built its financial architecture, adapted to euroization, and managed fiscal and monetary coordination without a central currency.)
• Kosovo and the Global Market: Export Hopes, Import Realities, and Regional Economic Diplomacy
  (Investigates trade policy, CEFTA relations, non-recognition barriers, and economic diplomacy challenges.)
• Who Wins, Who Loses? The Social Costs of Transition: Inequality, Welfare, and Precarity
  (Looks at the human dimension of economic transition: winners, losers, migration patterns, and welfare policy gaps.)
• Shock and Response: Kosovo’s Experience with Global and Regional Economic Crises
  (Includes the 2008 financial crisis, COVID-19, energy shocks, and Kosovo’s fiscal resilience mechanisms.)
• Vision 2030? The Future of Kosovo’s Economy in a Shifting Geopolitical Landscape
  (Forward-looking analysis on green transitions, digital futures, brain drain, diaspora investment, and structural reform priorities.)
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General Framework:

• Chapter Summary: A 750–1,000-word abstract outlining the chapter’s main arguments, methodology, and key findings.
• Full Chapter Length: 6,000–9,000 words, including footnotes.
• Language: English only.
• Formatting:
  • Use Microsoft Word (.docx format)
  • Page margins: 2.5 cm on all sides
  • Font: Times New Roman, size 12, line spacing 1.5
  • Title: Uppercase, bold, font size 14
  • Subheadings: Lowercase, font size 12
  • Tables and figures should be indicated in lowercase and sequentially numbered with footnotes placed directly below the table. Avoid duplication of data presented in both tables and the main text.
  • Tables should be taken to use as few tables as possible. The data presented in the tables should be avoided to match the data presented in the text.
• Peer Review and Publication: Contributions will undergo peer review for quality and relevance.
• Honarium: There will be a remuneration for the written contribution.
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Important Dates (Schedule): 

• Deadline for Abstract Submission: August 1, 2025
• Notification of Accepted Abstracts: August 20, 2025
• Deadline for Full Chapter Submission: September 15, 2025
• Announcement of Accepted Chapters: October 1, 2025
• Peer Review Period: November 1, 2025
• Final Revised Submission: November 20, 2025
• Publication Date: December 2025
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Application Link:

https://forms.gle/1trXgmNHY6SKtjeX9

We look forward to your contributions to this significant academic effort examining the trajectory of Kosovo’s economic development and institutional transformation in the post-independence era.

28-29 November 2025, Istanbul University – Türkiye
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Call for Papers

This Conference on International Law, “The Dayton Agreement at 30: Legal Reflections, Politics of Fragmentation and the Future of Peacebuilding” invites scholars, legal practitioners, policymakers, and researchers to submit papers exploring the legal, political, and socio-economic implications of the Dayton Peace Agreement (DPA) 30 years after its signing. This conference seeks to critically assess the successes, challenges, and future prospects of the DPA in shaping peace, governance, and legal frameworks in the Western Balkans and beyond.

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Conference Objectives

The primary objectives of this conference are to:

• Assess the Dayton Peace Agreement’s Legacy
• Explore Legal and Political Implications
• Address Challenges and Reforms
• Draw Lessons for International Law and Peacebuilding
• Foster Dialogue Among Scholars and Practitioners

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Conference Themes

The conference will cover a range of interdisciplinary topics, including but not limited to:

• Legal Foundations and Structure of the Dayton Peace Agreement
• Ethnic Power-Sharing and Governance Challenges in Bosnia and Herzegovina
• The Role of International Law in Post-Conflict Peace Agreements
• Human Rights and Minority Protections Under the DPA
• International Actors and Their Influence on the Dayton Process
• Transitional Justice, War Crimes Prosecutions, and Reconciliation Efforts
• Economic and Institutional Development in the Post-Dayton Era
• Comparative Analysis of Other Peace Agreements and Their Effectiveness
• The Role of the EU, NATO, and Other International Organizations in the DPA’s Implementation
• Reforming the Dayton Framework: Pathways for Future Constitutional and Legal Reforms
• Global Implications of the Dayton Experience: Lessons for Contemporary and Future Peace Agreements

We look forward to engaging discussions that contribute to a deeper understanding of the Dayton Peace Agreement’s legal and political legacy while offering new perspectives for the future of peace and governance in the region.

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Submission Guidelines

We invite submissions of abstracts that address any of the above themes. Abstracts should be no more than 300 words and must be submitted by June 30, 2025. Please include a title, author name, affiliation, and contact information. Notifications of acceptance will be sent by July 10, 2025.
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Costs

There is no registration fee for participating in the conference. We are pleased to offer funding for travel and accommodation expenses for a select number of papers, subject to review and approval.
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Conference Organizer: Istanbul University, Balkan Studies Foundation, WOLAS, International University of Sarajevo, University of Sarajevo Institute of History.
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Conference Schedule

May 05, 2025, Announcement of the conference

June 30, 2025, Deadline for abstracts

July 10, 2025, Announcement of the Accepted Abstracts

October 20, 2025, Deadline for full papers

November 10, 2025, Announcement of the Conference program

November 28-29, 2025, Conference Date

March 2026, Publication of the selected papers

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Application Form: 

https://forms.gle/FbQi8KFPfc9Zg8H97

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Organizing Committee

Assist. Prof. Dr. Hasan Basri Bülbül, Boğaziçi University (Türkiye)

Dr. Sevba Abdula, Balkan Studies Foundation (North Macedonia)

Dr. Sedad Bešlija, University of Sarajevo Institute of History (Bosnia-Herzegovina)

Dr. Hamza Preljevic, International University of Sarajevo (Bosnia-Herzegovina)

Prof. Dr. Admir Mulaosmanovic, Balikesir University (Bosnia-Herzegovina)

Deniz Baran, Istanbul University (Türkiye)

Ömer Doğubey Aslan, WOLAS (Türkiye)

Nermin Talaat JadAllah, WOLAS (Türkiye)

Hanife Etem, Balkan Studies Foundation (North Macedonia)

Elif R. Nazim, Balkan Studies Foundation (North Macedonia)      

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Scientific Committee 

Prof. Dr. Ali Emrah Bozbayındır (Türkiye)

Prof. Dr. Admir Mulaosmanovic (Bosnia and Herzegovina)

Prof. Dr. Ahmet Hamdi Topal (Türkiye)

Prof. Dr. Mehmet Hacisalioğlu (Germany)

Prof. Dr. Berdal Aral (Türkiye)

Prof. Dr. Yücel Acer (Türkiye)

Prof. Dr. İbrahim Kaya (Türkiye)

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ali Osman Karaoğlu (Türkiye)

Assist. Prof. Dr. Muhammet Celal Kul (Türkiye)

Dr. Jasmin Medić (Bosnia and Herzegovina)

Dr. Mumaer Džananović (Bosnia and Herzegovina)

Dr. Muhammet Beheşti Aydoğan (Türkiye)

Dr. Hikmet Karčić (Bosnia and Herzegovina)

Dr. Edin Omerčić (Bosnia and Herzegovina)

Dr. Harun Halilovic (Bosnia and Herzegovina)

Meanwhile, Prof. Mimoza has focused on analyzing the professions and needs of the diaspora, as well as the strategies it follows. She has also addressed the existing gaps in state structures, which the diaspora can fill through its engagement. Another important focus has been the impact of diaspora capital investments and the effects they bring on economic development.

Adnan Mestan
IDEFE Publications, 2025
10 pp.
DOI: 10.51331/perspective07
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1. What are the main drivers of nationalism in the Balkans?
2. Who are the nationalist leaders in Bulgaria and what are their ideas?
3. Who are the nationalist leaders in Romania and what are their ideas?
4. What can we expect from the Rise of Nationalist Political Leaders in the Balkans?
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In the Balkan countries, such as Bulgaria and Romania, a multi-factorial analysis is required in order to comprehend the ascent of nationalist leaders. Whilst external powers have undoubtedly exerted an influence on the escalation of nationalist rhetoric in these countries, internal factors and dynamics have also contributed to this process. The following discussion will firstly examine the role of external and internal factors in the rise of nationalist rhetoric in the Balkans. Secondly, it will analyze the leadership of nationalist parties in Bulgaria and Romania. Finally, the potential consequences of the rise of nationalist leaders in Bulgaria and Romania will be discussed in the context of contemporary global affairs. Given Bulgaria and Romania’s involvement in institutions such as the EU and NATO, it is imperative that these two countries adhere to certain principles. However, the discussion will also address the question of whether the rise of nationalist leaders could potentially compromise their relations with Euro Atlantic institutions.

Journal of Balkan Economies and Management

30th Anniversary of the Srebrenica Genocide 

July 8, 2025, Skopje-North Macedonia 

Call for Papers

The year 2025 marks the 30th anniversaryof theSrebrenica Genocide and the signing of the Dayton Peace Agreement, two pivotal events that shaped the modern history of Bosnia and Herzegovina and the broader Balkans region. The Srebrenica Genocide, recognized as the largest atrocity in Europe since World War II, reflects the challenges of international law, politics, and memory in post-conflict societies. The Srebrenica Genocide represents a tragic violation of human rights that took place in July 1995 in Srebrenica, a “safe area” declared by the United Nations. Over 8,000 Bosniak men and boys were systematically killed by Bosnian Serb forces. This massacre remains the largest mass killing in Europe since World War II and starkly highlights the international community’s failure to prevent genocide.

To mark the 30th anniversary of the Srebrenica Genocide, a commemorative event aims to bring together legal scholars, political scientists, historians, sociologists, human rights activists, and memory studies experts.  

Application Link: https://forms.gle/cVw3ucszeKKkn8BR7

Conference Objectives

• To analyze the role and limitations of international law in addressing genocide and ensuring lasting peace.
• To examine the significance of memory work in promoting reconciliation, justice, and sustainable peace.
• To propose concrete recommendations for preventing future atrocities and strengthening global human rights frameworks.
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Conference Themes

• International Law and Justice

The conference will examine the effectiveness of international legal institutions, such as the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia (ICTY), in prosecuting war crimes and genocide. Discussions will focus on the successes and challenges of delivering justice to the victims of Srebrenica and the broader implications of these legal responses for global justice systems. This theme aims to assess how international law has addressed atrocities and identify areas for improvement in preventing and prosecuting future crimes against humanity.

• Politics and Global Interests

This theme will examine the political reasons behind the delayed intervention of international actors such as the UN, NATO, and the EU during the Srebrenica Genocide. It will also assess how human rights and humanitarian intervention were sidelined in political decision-making processes. The long-term impact of the genocide on Bosnia-Herzegovina’s current political structure and societal dynamics will also be analyzed.

• Memory, Reconciliation, and Peacebuilding

Addressing the legacy of the Srebrenica Genocide, this theme will explore the importance of memory work in reconciliation and fostering a collective commitment to justice. National and international initiatives aimed at commemorating victims and promoting healing will be discussed, alongside the role of education, memorialization, and cultural heritage in sustaining peace. This theme underscores the necessity of preserving the memory of atrocities as a foundation for long-term reconciliation and societal harmony.
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Submission Guidelines

We invite submissions of abstracts that address any of the above themes. Abstracts should be no more than 300 words and must be submitted by March 20, 2025. Please include a title, author name, affiliation, and contact information. Notifications of acceptance will be sent by April 1, 2025.

Costs

There is no registration fee for participating in the conference. We are pleased to offer funding for travel and accommodation expenses for a select number of papers, subject to review and approval.

Conference Schedule

March 20, 2025, Deadline for abstracts

April 1, 2025, Annoncement of accepted abstracts

June 20, 2025, Deadline for full papers

June 30, 2025, Announcement of the Conference program

July 8, 2025, Conference Date

November, 2025, Publication of the selected papers
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Organizing Committee

Dr. Sevba Abdula, Balkan Studies Foundation (North Macedonia)

Assist. Prof. Dr. Hasan Basri Bülbül, Boğaziçi University (Türkiye)

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Bujamin Bela, Mother Teresa Univeristy (North Macedonia)

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Tahir Kılavuz, Marmara University (Türkiye)

Prof. Dr. Mehmet Bulut, Zaim University, (Türkiye)

Dr. Sedad Bešlija, University of Sarajevo Institute of History, (Bosnia-Herzegovina)

Hanife Etem, Balkan Studies Foundation (North Macedonia)

Elif Rushiti, Balkan Studies Foundation (North Macedonia)
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Scientific Committee

Prof. Dr. Ali Emrah Bozbayındır (Türkiye)

Prof. Dr. Admir Mulaosmanovic, Balikesir University (Bosnia-Herzegovina)

Prof. Dr. Ahmet Hamdi Topal (Türkiye)

Prof. Dr. Mehmet Hacisalioğlu (Germany)

Prof. Dr. Berdal Aral (Türkiye)

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ali Osman Kuşakçı (Türkiye)

Dr. Polona Florijančič (Slovenia)

Dr. Luigi Daniele (United Kingdom)

Dr. Andre Maria Pellicioni (Italy)

Dr. Jasmin Medić (Bosnia-Herzegovina)

Dr. Mumaer Džananović (Bosnia-Herzegovina)

Dr. Hikmet Karčić (Bosnia-Herzegovina)

The International Balkan Studies Congress is an international event organized to promote interdisciplinary studies in the field of social sciences, contributing to qualified and original academic output. The 5th International Balkan Studies Congress is being organized by Balkan Studies Foundation and is supported by the Presidency for Turks Abroad and Related Communities, Istanbul Medeniyet University, HUN-REN Centre for Economic and Regional Studies-Institute for Regional Studies, South East European University, University of Tetova, and İLEM: Scientific Studies Association. The Congress will be held in Skopje, North Macedonia.

The International Balkan Studies Congress aims to create a networking environment among academics in the Balkan region, fostering the academic and scientific atmosphere within the region, and developing scientific methodology in the Balkans. Previous Congresses have hosted more than 130 participants from the countries of the Balkans, as well as Türkiye, Albania, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Azerbaijan, Greece, Slovenia, Kyrgyzstan, USA, Nigeria, Romania, Slovakia and Morocco. The 1st International Balkan Studies Congress was held in Skopje, the 2nd International Balkan Studies Congress in Tirana, the 3rd International Balkan Studies Congress in Istanbul, the 4th International Balkan Studies Congress in Sarajevo, and this year it will be held in Skopje.

The Congress applies the blind peer review system; the abstracts and full papers that are submitted will be accepted after being evaluated by reviewers who are experts in their field. The papers chosen at the end of the Congress will be published by the Balkan Studies Foundation to admit the presentations taking place at the Congress to the scientific world.

Registration and Submission Link: https://bsc.congress.gen.tr/ 

For further information visit: www.congressbalkan.com

Contact us: info@balkanfoundation.com

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Moderator
Assist. Prof. Dr. Elisabeta Ollogu Bajrami

Panelists
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Arta Xhelili
Jasmin Rexhep

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Panel language: Albanian

Date: 29 January 2025

Time: 17:30

Venue: Balkan Studies Foundation (Goce Delchev 11, no: 1-1, Skopje)

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Prior registration is required:
https://forms.gle/o4ChRnddoRPXLVLWA

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Panel diskutim: Një vështrim i ri mbi faktorët shtytës të migrimeve në vend, rajon dhe më gjerë

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Moderatore:

• Assist. Prof. Dr. Elisabeta Ollogu Bajrami

Panelistë:

• Doc. Prof. Dr. Arta Xhelili
• Jasmin Rexhep

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Gjuha e panelit: Shqip

Data: 29 Janar 2025
Ora: 17:30

Vendi: Balkan Studies Foundation (Goce Delchev 11, no: 1-1, Skopje)

Regjistrimi paraprak është i detyrueshëm:
https://forms.gle/o4ChRnddoRPXLVLWA

Contemporary Challenges in Balkans: 

EU and Migration 

July 14-19, 2025

 Skopje, North Macedonia

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Important Dates 

• March 10, 2025 – Deadline for Abstract Submission
• March 20, 2025 – Announcement of Accepted Abstracts
• June 01, 2025 – Deadline for Full Paper Submission
• June 05, 2025 – Announcement of Accepted Papers
• July 01 2025 – Announcement of the IBSS Program
• July 14-19, 2025 (Monday-Saturday) – Implementation of the IBSS
• December 31, 2025 – Publication of the Selected Papers

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Topics 

• Introduction to the Balkans: A Geopolitical Crossroads
• The EU and the Balkans: Aspirations and Roadblocks
• Migration as a Defining Issue for the Region 
• Political Instability and Its Impact on EU Relations
• Economic Disparities and Migration Drivers
• Border Management: Cooperation or Contention?
• Human Rights Concerns in Migration Policies
• The Role of External Powers in Balkan Affairs
• Towards a Common Future: Challenges and Opportunities

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About the Summer School 

The International Balkan Summer School, titled “Contemporary Challenges in the Balkans: EU & Migration” offers an intellectually stimulating and immersive platform designed specifically for postgraduate students and emerging scholars. This program delves deeply into critical, contemporary issues that shape the social, legal, political, and economic landscape of the Balkans, with a particular focus on the intricate interplay between migration dynamics and the European Union’s evolving role in the region. By addressing these pressing challenges, the summer school provides participants with a unique opportunity to engage in thought-provoking discussions that are grounded in both theoretical frameworks and real-world case studies. The program is meticulously tailored to cater to an academically inclined audience, fostering a vibrant environment of robust scholarly discourse. Through interdisciplinary approaches, it encourages participants to examine complex migration patterns, regional policies, and the EU’s influence on governance, integration, and security within the Balkans. In addition to structured lectures and seminars delivered by leading experts in the field, the summer school includes workshops, panel discussions, and networking opportunities, further enhancing the academic and professional growth of its attendees. By offering a platform to explore the historical, geopolitical, and cultural nuances of migration and EU relations in the Balkans, the program equips students with a comprehensive understanding of the region’s challenges and their global implications.

Website: balkansummerschool.com

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Program Highlights

• Engage with leading scholars and practitioners specializing in migration studies, EU policies, and Balkan regional dynamics.
• Participate in seminars, workshops, and collaborative discussions designed to enhance analytical and critical thinking skills.
• Explore practical and theoretical frameworks for addressing contemporary migration challenges and EU integration processes in the Balkans.

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Target Audience

This program is specifically designed for postgraduate students pursuing advanced research in disciplines such as political science, international relations, sociology, and European studies. Participants are expected to bring a strong academic background and a passion for contributing to meaningful discourse on the region’s pressing issues. By joining this summer school, participants will gain invaluable insights, establish scholarly networks, and contribute to a deeper understanding of the Balkan region’s contemporary challenges in a global context.

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Application and Review Process

Participants are required to submit an article addressing the summer school’s thematic focus. All submissions undergo a rigorous blind peer review process to ensure the highest academic standards. Abstracts and full texts are evaluated by field experts, and only those meeting the established criteria are accepted. This process underscores the school’s commitment to fostering excellence and originality in academic inquiry. The papers chosen at the end of the Summer School will be published by the Balkan Studies Foundation in order to admit the presentations taking place at the Summer School to the scientific world

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Honorary Board of the Summer School

Balkan Studies Foundation  President Dr. Sevba Abdula

South East European University Rector Prof. Dr. Abdylmenaf Bexheti

Oranje Institute President, Dr. Ali Eşlik

Ankara Center for Thought and Research, Prof. Dr. Mehmet Bulut

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Organizing Institutions 

Balkan Studies Foundation, North Macedonia

South East European University, North Macedonia

HUN-REN Centre for Economic and Regional Studies, Hungary

Oranje Institute, Netherlands Ankara Center for Thought and Research, Türkiye

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Organizing Committee 

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Bujamin Bela – Mother Teresa University, North Macedonia (Chairman of the Board)

Dr. Sevba Abdula – Balkan Studies Foundation, North Macedonia

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Admir Mulaosmanovic – Balikesir University, Bosnia-Herzegovina

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Cem Korkut, Ankara Yıldırım Beyazit University, Türkiye

Assist. Prof. Dr. Ahmet Köroğlu, Istanbul University, Türkiye

Dr. Ferto Imre, HUN-REN Centre for Economic and Regional Studies, Hungary

Dr. Ali Eşlik – Oranje Institute, Netherland

Dr. Mustafa Işık, Bulgaria

Elif R. Nazim, Balkan Studies Foundation, North Macedonia

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Secretariat

Berat Alili, Balkan Studies Foundation, North Macedonia

Hanife Etem, Balkan Studies Foundation, North Macedonia

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Scientific Committee of the Summer School 

Prof. Dr. Mehmet Bulut, Istanbul Zaim University, Türkiye

Prof. Dr. Viktoria Kafedziska, International Balkan University, North Macedonia

Prof. Dr. Kire Sharlamanov, International Balkan University, North Macedonia

Prof. Dr. Bejtulla Demiri, International Balkan University, North Macedonia

Assoc. Prof. Ali Erken, Marmara University, Türkiye

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mevludin Ibishi, International Balkan University, North Macedonia

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Neritan Turkesh, Mother Teresa University, North Macedonia

Assist. Prof. Dr. Sedad Beslija, University of Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina

Assist. Prof. Dr. Elmin Alijev, Istanbul Medeniyet University, Azerbaijan

Assist. Prof. Dr. Mehmet Uğur Ekinci, SETA, Türkiye

Assist. Prof. Dr. Bujamin Bela, Mother Teresa University, North Macedonia

Assist. Prof. Dr. Murat Aliu, Mother Teresa University, North Macedonia

Assist. Prof. Dr. Süleyman Güder, Istanbul University, Türkiye

Assist. Prof. Dr. Kadir Temiz, Istanbul Medeniyet University, Türkiye

Assist. Prof. Dr. Drita Memedi, State University of Tetovo, North Macedonia

Assist. Prof. Dr. Besa Sejdiu, South East European University, North Macedonia

Assist. Prof. Dr. Sanja Adzaip Velickovska, International Balkan University, North Macedonia

Assist. Prof. Dr. Ramazan Turgut – Oranje Institute, Netherland

Assist. Prof. Dr. Natalija Shikova, International Balkan University, North Macedonia

Assist. Prof. Dr. Nikola Dacev, International Balkan University, North Macedonia

Assist. Prof. Dr. Abdullah Muhsin Yıldız, Yalova University, Türkiye

Dr. Muhammed Jashari, Balkan Studies Foundation, North Macedonia

Assoc. Dr. Elisabeta Bajrami Ollogu, Mother Teresa University, North Macedonia

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Rules for Writing

Manuscripts submitted to the International Balkan Summer School (the full text of the paper) must not have been previously published nor currently presented for publication anywhere.

Abstracts must be in English and submitted to https://forms.gle/K3qvpqYqVGh5E7GTA Google form and and must be between 250 and 350 words in length. The full text should contain no information about the author anywhere. If any information is found in the full text that would identify the author, the text will be eliminated without being subjected to peer review as it does not comply with the blind review policies of the Balkan Studies Foundation.

The study should contain between 4,000 to 8,000 words.

The full text must be submitted in Microsoft Word format by June 01, 2025. Texts uploaded in PDF format will not be accepted.

Full texts not prepared in accordance with the Rules of Writing of the IBSS will be rejected without being sent to the reviewers.

The articles to be submitted to the IBSS should be written in The Microsoft Word program with at least 2.5 cm margins, and the entire text should be written in Times New Roman font, font size has to be 12 and 1.5 line spacing. The name of the article should be written in capital letters, bold font and size 14, while the subtitles should be written in lowercase font and size 12.

In the articles, after the name of the author, in the footnote with an asterisk (*) symbol, the title of the author, the university/department and the mail address must be written in full.

Tables and tables should be numbered sequentially. Footnotes for tables should be added just below the table body and should be indicated in lowercase. Care should be taken to use as few tables as possible. The data presented in the tables should be avoided to match the data presented in the text.

Footnotes, abstracts, bibliographies, tables, etc. should be completed before the article is delivered.

In the introduction part of the article, the subject, thematic, temporal and spatial boundaries of the article should be specified. Also, it should include information such as the importance of the article, the space it fills in the field, the new perspective it brings, and the information it corrects. In addition, the methods and sources used, the main claim, and the side claims supporting it should also be included.

The full texts submitted after assessing the abstract will be subjected to a preliminary examination by the Regulatory Board in terms of form and content, after which it will be sent to the reviewers. The following decisions may be given for the studies in line with the reports coming from the reviewers:

Acceptable in its current state.

Can be accepted into the Summer School after correcting the issues stated in the review evaluation.

Rejected.

APA 7th edition will be used as the article reference system.

May, 22 2025, Skopje-North Macedonia

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About Conference

The Conference for Higher Education in North Macedonia will convene scholars, researchers, and practitioners from across the region to discuss the evolving landscape of higher education. The conference aims to provide a platform for critical dialogue on the challenges and opportunities facing North Macedonian higher education institutions, focusing on key topics such as governance, digitalization, international cooperation, and academic freedom.

The event will bring together leading academics, policymakers, and professionals to share research, insights, and strategies that can guide the future of higher education in North Macedonia. Through collaborative discussions, presentations, and workshops, the conference seeks to foster innovative approaches that support sustainable growth and advancement in North Macedonia’s academic.

The Conference for Higher Education in North Macedonia invites scholars, researchers, and professionals to submit papers that explore contemporary challenges and future directions in higher education. We welcome contributions that address topics including, but not limited to, the governance and structure of universities, digitalization and the role of artificial intelligence, internationalization and research collaboration, and the transformation towards sustainability in academic practices. Abstracts should provide an overview of the research question, methodology, and anticipated findings, aligning with the conference themes. Accepted papers will be presented at the conference on May 22, 2025, in Skopje, North Macedonia, and selected papers will be published in a post-conference proceedings volume.

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Conference Schedule 

January 10, 2024, Deadline for abstracts

January 20, 2025, Announcement of accepted abstracts

April 20, 2025, Deadline for full paper submission

April 30, 2025, Announcement of accepted papers

May 15, 2025, Announcement of the Conference program

September, 2025, Publication of the selected papers

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Application Link: https://forms.gle/oDNB5bkBxs2hpsxM6

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Conference Topics:

Higher Education Institutions and Their Roles in North Macedonia: Governance, Fragmentation, Developments, and Trends

This topic explores the evolving landscape of higher education institutions in North Macedonia, with a focus on governance structures, the challenges of university fragmentation, and the impact of recent developments and trends. Discussions will address the role of universities in shaping national policies, economic development, and their integration into the broader European educational framework.

Digitalization and Artificial Intelligence in Higher Education in North Macedonia: Present Structure and Future Perspectives for Social Science

This topic examines the current state of digitalization and the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in North Macedonia’s higher education sector. It will explore how technology is transforming teaching, research, and administration, as well as the future implications for social sciences. The focus will be on opportunities and challenges, including the digital divide, the role of AI in curriculum development, and the ethical considerations of these advancements.

Internationalization and International Cooperation: Implementing Framework Conditions for Research and Innovation in North Macedonian Universities

This topic delves into the internationalization of higher education in North Macedonia, emphasizing the importance of global collaboration for research and innovation. Discussions will focus on creating the necessary framework conditions to foster international partnerships, enhancing the exchange of knowledge, and integrating North Macedonian universities into global academic networks. It will also address the challenges and opportunities of international cooperation in the context of local and regional educational policies.

Academic Freedom in Higher Education: Transformation Towards Sustainability

This topic explores the concept of academic freedom within North Macedonian higher education, particularly in the context of evolving political, social, and economic landscapes. It will discuss the challenges facing academic freedom and how universities can balance autonomy with accountability. The focus will also be on sustainability, examining how higher education institutions can ensure academic independence while adapting to societal demands and fostering a culture of innovation and critical thinking.

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Submission Guidelines 

We invite submissions of abstracts that address any of the above themes. Abstracts should be no more than 300 words and must be submitted by January 10, 2024. Please include a title, author name, affiliation, and contact information. Notifications of acceptance will be sent by January 20, 2025. 

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Costs

There is no registration fee for participating in the conference. We are pleased to offer funding accommodation expenses for a select number of papers, subject to review and approval.  

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Conference Organizer: Balkan Studies Foundation  

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Organizing Committee

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Bujamin Bela, Mother Tereza University (North Macedonia)

Prof. Dr. Rizvan Sulejmani, Mother Tereza University (North Macedonia)

Dr. Sevba Abdula, Balkan Studies Foundation (North Macedonia)

Prof. Dr. Alim Arlı, Marmara University (Türkiye)

Assist. Prof. Dr. Kujtim Hameli, University “Ukshin Hoti” Prizren (Kosovo)

Assist. Prof. Dr. Vehap Kola,  University of New York Tirana (Albania)

Metin Celil, International Balkan University (North Macedonia)

Elif R. Nazim, Balkan Studies Foundation (North Macedonia)

Hanife Etem, Balkan Studies Foundation (North Macedonia)

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Scientific Committee

Prof. Dr. Alim Arlı, Marmara University (Türkiye)

Prof. Dr. Mevludin Ibishi, International Balkan University (North Macedonia)

Prof. Dr. Bashkim Ziberi, Tetovo University (North Macedonia)

Prof. Dr. Urime Demiri Shaipi, Mother Tereza University (North Macedonia)

Prof. Dr. Musa Musai, Tetovo University (North Macedonia)

Prof. Dr. Qufli Osmani, Tetovo University (North Macedonia)

Prof. Dr. Bekim Fetai, Mother Tereza University (North Macedonia)

Prof. Dr. Mehmet Bulut, Istanbul Zaim University (Türkiye)

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Bujamin Bela, Mother Tereza University (North Macedonia)

Assist. Prof. Dr. Argëtim Saliu, Mother Tereza University (North Macedonia)

Assist. Prof. Dr. Sedat Bešlija, University of Sarajevo (Bosnia-Hercegovina)

Assist. Prof. Dr. Kujtim Hameli, University “Ukshin Hoti” Prizren (Kosovo)

Assist. Prof. Dr. Vehap Kola,  University of New York Tirana (Albania)

Prof. Dr. Rizvan Sulejmani, Mother Tereza University (North Macedonia)

Dr. Sevba Abdula, Balkan Studies Foundation (North Macedonia)

congressbalkan.com

Call for submission

Volume 5 Issue 1 Number 9
Deadline: 31 October 2024

For further informations and sumbission:
balkanjournal.org/jbs

The Failures and Futures of International Law: Perspectives

from Gaza, Ukraine, and the Balkans

10 December, 2024, Skopje-North Macedonia

Call for Papers

Recent conflicts in Gaza and Ukraine have highlighted profound challenges to the foundations of international law and the effectiveness of global institutions. These conflicts underscore a trend of growing disregard for international norms, prompting a critical reevaluation of the so-called promises of international law-such as the protection and emancipation of the oppressed, the delivery of justice, the protection of human rights and the maintenance of international peace and security. The very rationale for the existence of global institutions-ensuring peace and stability-appears increasingly fragile, as these bodies, the United Nations in particular, struggle to respond effectively to escalating crises. The specter of a third world war is now being discussed with greater seriousness than ever before, reflecting a deepening crisis of confidence in the ability of the international legal order to uphold its most fundamental objectives.

At the same time, there has been a notable surge in the use of international law, institutions, and courts by various actors, reflecting a complex dynamic. Both the Global North, as seen in the case of Ukraine, and the Global South, as demonstrated by the situation in Palestine, have increasingly turned to legal avenues such as the International Court of Justice and the International Criminal Court. This signals not only a reliance on international law as a tool for addressing grievances but also raises questions about the uneven application and accessibility of justice across different geopolitical contexts. Further, the double standards exhibited by hegemonic powers in their responses to the Ukrainian and Palestinian situations have starkly exposed the enduring colonial legacies embedded within international law.

This conference seeks to explore the value of international law in these turbulent times, marked by both disregard and hope, and to critically assess what has been achieved thus far in the legal struggles of Ukrainians against Russian aggression and Palestinians against Israeli occupation and aggression. By examining these cases, the conference aims to foster a deeper understanding of the successes, challenges, and potential pathways for international law to more effectively address injustices across different geopolitical contexts.

Holding this conference in the Balkan region is particularly significant given the area’s historical experiences with wars, conflicts, and genocide. While it is crucial to evaluate whether lessons have been learned from these bitter experiences, it is equally important to adopt a forward-looking perspective. This conference aims to analyze the implications of current conflicts, such as those in Ukraine and Palestine, for the peaceful future of the Balkans and the potential role that international law may play in shaping this future.

Conference Themes 

International Law Theory: Analyzing how historical and ongoing colonial influences and power relations shape international legal frameworks, often perpetuating injustices rather than resolving them. Papers should examine the systemic failures of international law, especially in contexts involving the Global South. Building on decolonising global hegemonic narratives, submissions are encouraged to propose frameworks for greater epistemological inclusivity of all cultures, fairer structures, and more equitable distribution of rights and obligations.

Palestine and International Law: Investigating the effectiveness—or lack thereof—of international legal mechanisms in addressing the rights and struggles of the Palestinian people and Israeli atrocities against them. This theme encourages exploration of how international law has been applied, ignored, or manipulated in this context. Ukraine and International Law: Assessing the international legal response to the conflict in Ukraine, including the issues of sovereignty, territorial integrity, human rights violations, war crimes and crimes against humanity. This theme also seeks to compare and contrast the treatment of Ukraine with other conflicts, particularly Palestine, to highlight inconsistencies and biases.

International Law and Balkans: Drawing lessons from the Ukrainian and Palestinian conflicts that resonate with the Balkan region’s historical and current geopolitical context. This theme invites reflections on how the Balkan states and people can address the complex landscape of international law and leverage these lessons for regional peace and security.

Submission Guidelines

We invite submissions of abstracts that address any of the above themes. Abstracts should be no more than 300 words and must be submitted by October 30, 2024. Please include a title, author name, affiliation, and contact information. Notifications of acceptance will be sent by November 15, 2024.

Costs

There is no registration fee for participating in the conference. We are pleased to offer funding for travel and accommodation expenses for a select number of papers, subject to review and approval.

Conference Organizer: Balkan Studies Foundation

Conference Schedule

October 30, 2024, Deadline for abstracts

December 01, 2024, Announcement of the Conference program

December, 11-12, 2024 Conference Date

February, 15, 2025 Deadline for full paper submission

May, 2025, Publication of the selected papers or publication research articles in Journal of Balkan Studies

Application form: https://forms.gle/wXAjYCVC34pvohKe7

Organizing Committee

Dr. Sevba Abdula, Balkan Studies Foundation, (North Macedonia)

Dr. Hasan Basri Bülbül, Boğaziçi University, (Türkiye)

Assist. Prof. Dr. Bujamin Bela, Mother Teresa Univeristy (North Macedonia)

Metin Xhelil, International Balkan University (North Macedonia)

Prof. Dr. Admir Mulaosmanovic, Balikesir University (Bosnia-Hercegovina)

Hanife Etem, Balkan Studies Foundation, (North Macedonia)

Elif N. Rushiti, Balkan Studies Foundation, (North Macedonia)

Scientific Committee

Prof. Dr. Ali Emrah Bozbayındır (Türkiye)

Prof. Dr. Mutaz M. Qafisheh (Palestine)

Prof. Dr. Berdal Aral (Türkiye)

Prof. Dr. Satvinder Juss (United Kingdom)

Prof. Dr. Ahmet Hamdi Topal (Türkiye)

Dr. Luigi Daniele (Italy)

Dr. Andrea Maria Pelliconi (United Kingdom)

Prof. Dr. Saul Takahashi (Japan)

February 21-22, 2025, Skopje-North Macedonia

The Balkan Studies Foundation is pleased to announce an open call for participation in our forthcoming conference, which will focus on the post-independence economic transformation of North Macedonia and the macroeconomic challenges encountered during this period. The conference is organized to discuss in depth the main dynamics of the North Macedonian economy through various economic indicators.

Application form:https://forms.gle/SbVXEzEEbA8tpUkW6

Topics 

• Historical Context and Pre-Independence Economic Conditions
• Early Economic Policies, Post-Independence Challenges, and Macroeconomic stability:
• Agricultural and Industrial Sector Changes
• Service Sector Growth, Including ICT
• Evolution of Banking, Capital Market Development, and Financial Sectors Post-1991
• Trade Policies, Export-Import Dynamics, and Globalization Effects
• EU Integration Efforts, Challenges, and Impacts
• Social Impacts of Economic Changes, Labor Productivity and Competitiveness
• Analysis of Economic Crises and Responses
• Current Trends, Future Challenges, and Opportunities
• Political Parties and economic policies

Submission Guidelines

We invite submissions of abstracts that address any of the above themes. Abstracts should be no more than 300 words and must be submitted by October 15, 2024. Please include a title, author name, affiliation, and contact information. Notifications of acceptance will be sent by October 25, 2024.

Costs 

There is no registration fee for participating in the conference.  

Conference Schedule 

September 16, 2024, Announcement of the conference

October 15, 2024,      Deadline for abstracts

October 25 2024,       Announcement of accepted abstracts

January 15, 2025,      Deadline for full paper submission

February 01, 2025,    Announcement of accepted papers

February 10, 2025,    Announcement of the Conference program

Aprill 30, 2025,         Publication of the selected papers or publication research articles in Journal of Balkan Economies and Management

Organizing Committee 

Assist. Prof. Dr., Bujamin Bela, Mother Tereza University (North Macedonia)

Asisst. Prof. Dr. Serdar Serdaroğlu, Istanbul University (Türkiye)

Dr. Jordan Delev, International Vision University (North Macedonia)

Dr. Kujtim Hameli, University “Ukshin Hoti” Prizren (Kosovo)

Dr. Vehap Kola (Albania), Sami Frasheri Institute (Albania)

Dr. Mustafa Öztürk, Kırklareli University (Türkiye)

Zehra A. Sadiki, Balkan Studies Foundation (North Macedonia)

Elif N. Rushiti, Balkan Studies Foundation (North Macedonia)

Scientific Committee 

Dr. Jordan Delev, International Vision University (North Macedonia)

Dr. Kujtim Hameli, University “Ukshin Hoti” Prizren (Kosovo)

Dr. Vehap Kola (Albania), Sami Frasheri Institute (Albania)

Asisst. Prof. Dr. Serdar Serdaroğlu, Istanbul University (Türkiye)

Prof. Dr. Arbresha Raveni, Mother Tereza University (North Macedonia)

Dr. Mustafa Öztürk, Kırklareli University (Türkiye)

Prof. Dr. Ahmet Faruk Aysan, Hamad bin Khalifa University (Türkiye)

Günter Mercan, Kiril and Metodij University (North Macedonia)

Prof. Dr. Nikola Levkov, Kiril and Metodij University (North Macedonia)

Prof. Dr. Agim Mahmuti, Mother Tereza University (North Macedonia)

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Elizabeta Ollugu, Mother Tereza University (North Macedonia)

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Elma Starović, Hasan Kalyoncu University (Bosnia and Herzegovina)

Assist. Prof. Dr. Šejma Aydin, International Sarajevo University (Bosnia and Herzegovina)

“The 4th International Balkan Studies Congress, organized by the Balkan Studies Foundation in collaboration with the International University of Sarajevo, Istanbul Medeniyet University, University of Tetova, International Balkan University, and İLEM Association, with the support of the Presidency for Turks Abroad and Related Communities, has been successfully concluded.”

The congress took place from September 6th to 8th at the International University of Sarajevo, bringing together scholars and researchers from diverse disciplines to explore the rich and complex history, culture, and politics of the Balkan region.

The opening ceremony featured welcoming remarks by Assist. Prof. Dr. Bujamin Bela, President of the Congress; Dr. Sevba Abdula, Director of the Balkan Studies Foundation; Prof. Dr. Faruk Bal, Dean of the Faculty of Political Sciences at Istanbul Medeniyet University; Prof. Dr. Ahmet Yıldırım, Rector of the International University of Sarajevo; and Prof. Dr. Sevgi Kurtulmuş, President of the Board of Trustees at the International University of Sarajevo. Additionally, Mr. Abdullah Eren, President of the Presidency for Turks Abroad and Related Communities, provided remarks, emphasizing the significance of academic cooperation in fostering cultural understanding and strengthening ties within the region.

On September 7th, 54 participants from 10 different countries, including Bosnia and Herzegovina, Türkiye, Greece, Serbia, Bulgaria, Albania, Romania, Nigeria, the United States of America, Slovakia, and Azerbaijan, presented their peer-reviewed scientific papers, covering a wide range of topics related to the Balkan region. September 8th was reserved as a free day for participants to visit Sarajevo.

The congress not only served as a platform for sharing innovative research but also fostered discussions on the region’s current challenges and future prospects. Through these interactions, participants had the opportunity to exchange ideas, establish collaborations, and contribute to the expanding field of Balkan studies.

Session I: History

Moderator: Dr. Sedad Bešlija

》The Lands Everyone Wants to Know But No One Knows Exactly: Cartography Race in the Balkans – Dr. Özge Kobak

》Demographic Structure of Bihor District in 1851 – Dr. Zarife Albayrak

》Who Exposed the Ottomans? The American Missionaries and the Earliest Reports of the Bulgarian Atrocities – Brandon Johnson

》The Relocation and Resettlement of Bosnian Muhajirs after the Annexation of Bosnia and Herzegovina by Austria-Hungary in Ottoman Archival Documents (1908-1910) – Bedriye Uzuner

Session II: History

Moderator: Prof. Dr. Muhidin Mulalić

》On social conditions and economic politics in the Republic of Türkiye according to the Bosnian-Herzegovinian magazine Islamski svijet (1932-1935) – Amir Džinić

》A Visual Fight for Bosnia and Herzegovina – Narrative Analyses of Caricatures in Врач Погађач: Шала И Подсмјевка Magazine on the Annexation Crisis – Maroš Melichárek

》Austria-Hungary’s Annexation of Bosnia and Herzegovina in Humor Magazines – Hakan Şendilmen

》Analyzing the Zaman Newspaper as an Historical Resource: Reflection of Disorders in the Selanik Province (1876 – 1880) – Mehmet Yıldız

Session III: History

Moderator: Assist. Prof. Dr. Ahmet Köroğlu

》Memories of a Russian Officer on the Ottoman-Russian War (1828-1829) – Dr. Yunus Emre Aydın

》From Ottoman Foreign Minister to Prime Minister of Albania: Turhan Hüsnü Pasha (1846-1927) – Doğukan Oruç

》Balkan View of a Japanese Scientist: Travelogue of Nakanome Akira – Dr. Uğur Altın

》From Berlin to Istanbul: The Balkan Journey of the Special German Unit Assigned to Reinforce the Straits – Dr. Yusuf Ziya Altıntaş

Session IV: History

Moderator: Prof. Dr. Faruk Bal

》Albanians at the Tribal School and Tafil Bolatini – Dr. Yunus Güler

》The Foundation of Gajret: A Pivotal Bosniak Society and Its Activities from 1903 to 1914 – Assist. Prof. Dr. Enes Turbic

》Deviance of Sufi Orders in Bosnia Through the Lens of State Power – Saadet Demiroğlu

》Comparison of the Role of the Sufism Movement in the Balkans and Indonesia – Supratman Supratman

》Reconsidering the Dynamics of British Imperialism through the Balkans – Assist. Prof. Dr. Fahriye Begüm Yıldızeli

Session V: History

Moderator: Dr. Sevba Abdula

》Tribune of the Bulgarian Exarchate: Novini (1890-1898) – Dr. Ergün Hasanoğlu

》Intellectual Catalysts: The Cultural Influence of the Unitarian Church of Transylvania on the Road to Romanian Independence – Esra Kızıl

》The Transformation of the Ottoman Millet System and the Rise of Nationalism in the Balkans: A Case Study of Church Disputes in Florina – Dr. Elif Charlotte Nelson

》The Effects of Islamic Movements on Bulgarian Muslims’ Interpretation of Religion – Assist. Prof. Dr. Şabanali Ahmed

Session VI: History

Moderator: Omer Merzić

》Women in the 1528-1530 Detailed Survey of the Sanjak of Bosnia – Emina Mostić

》Bosnian Franciscans as Guardians of the Written Heritage in Oriental Languages – Dr. Madžida Mašić

》Reflections of Modernization in Daily Life in Sarajevo: A Study Based on Svrzo’s and Despić House – Esra Tatlı

Session VII: History

Moderator: Dr. Sevba Abdula

》Bulgarian Madrasas in the 19th Century: The Voivode of Tarnova Feyzi (Feyzullah) Aga Madrasa and Its Waqf – Hümeyra Selvi Tırnava

》The Role of Bosnian-Herzegovinian Scholars in the Tradition of Political Writing – Faruk Yılmaz

》Evaluation of the Tanzimat Period of the Balkan Nations According to the Political Psychology Approach – Gizem Ünal

》The Ottoman State’s Military Governorship of Romania and Its Activities During the First World War – Assist. Prof. Dr. Rıdvan Kaşıkçı

Session VIII: Literature

Moderator: Assoc. Prof. Dr. Mehmet Korkmaz

》The Balkans as Cultural Memory in Necati Cumalı’s Novel Viran Dağlar – Prof. Dr. Ahmet Koçak

》Two Wars, One Geography: The Changing Image of the Balkans in the Works of Yaşar Nabi Nayır Titled Balkans and Turkishness and Our Changing World – Dr. İlhan Süzgün

》Ottoman Perception in Novels About the Balkans – Dr. Kamil Parın

》Writers of Bosnia and Herzegovina in the Albanian Language – Dr. Loreta Loli

Session IX: History

Moderator: Assist. Prof. Dr. Hamza Preljević

》The Sultan Murad Mosque and Complex in the Formation of Skopje’s City Identity – Büşra Koçer

》The Modern Monuments of North Macedonia after the Prespa Agreement – Anna Korneeva

》Jewish Refugees from Eastern Europe in the Ottoman Territories in 1888 – Nilghiun Ismail

》Special Features of the Architectural Plan of the Altun Alem Mosque Built in Novi Pazar in the 16th Century – Enisa Huseinovic

Session X: Political Science and International Relations

Moderator: Assoc. Prof. Dr. Ena Kazić

》Bulgarian-Russian Relations After the Accession of Bulgaria to NATO in the Period from 2004 to 2024 – Dr. Adnan Mestan

》Analysis of Türkiye – Bosnia and Herzegovina Relations in the Smart Power Perspective – Dr. Erdem Eren

》China’s Influence on the EU Integration Process of Western Balkan Countries – Dr. Figen Aydın

》Information Warfare in the Balkans: The Role of Serbia and the Comparative Analysis of Russia and the United States – İrem Güldem Karar

Session XI: Political Science and International Relations

Moderator: Moderator: Assist. Prof. Dr. Ahmet Köroğlu

》Yugoslavia-Soviet Union Relations in the Context of Hierarchy Approach (1945-1948) – İrfan Tatlı

》The Transformation of Minority Issues in the Balkans in the Post-Communist Period: The Case of Bulgaria – Dr. Mustafa Işık

》Current European Union security policy on the Balkan Peninsula – Laman Bakuvi

》Sexual Violence During War: Foča Case – Lavinia Marcu

Session XII: Islamic Sciences

Moderator: Dr. İlhan Süzgün

》Metaphysical Foundations of God-Human Relationship in Usûli’s Poems – Hasan Hüseyin Çaçan

》A Journey of Science from the Balkans to Istanbul: Head Scholar of Huzur Lessons Debreli Vildan Fâik Efendi and His Hadith Scholarship – Assoc. Prof. Dr. Muhammed Alparslan Kartal

》The First Commentator of al-Zarnuji’s Ta’līm in the Ottoman Empire: Was Skopje Kılıççızade the Author of Mir’at at-Talibīn? – Zehra Kumru

》Sheikh Yuyo (Šejh Jujo): A 17th Century Ottoman Scholar and His Tomb in Mostar – Hatice Tokuz Güler

》Deconstructing ‘The Bridge on the Drina’ in the Context of Postcolonial Criticism – Faizulla Toltay

Session XIII: Economics

Moderator: Assist. Prof. Dr. Bujamin Bela

》A Pathway to Environmental Sustainability: Does Globalization Moderate the Relationship Between Natural Resources and Ecological Footprint? – Assoc. Prof. Dr. Elma Satrovic

》An Analysis of Türkiye’s Official Development Assistance to Bosnia and Herzegovina From a Social Policy Perspective – Assoc. Prof. Dr. Muhammet Enes Kayagil

》According to Documents in the Dubrovnik State Archives: The Dubrovnik Monopoly in the Eastern Adriatic During the 15th and 16th Centuries – Muhammed Seyyid Katırsız

Session XIV: Law Moderator: Assist. Prof. Dr. Mirza Ljubović

》Legal Status of Foreigners of Turkish Descent in Terms of Their Employment in Türkiye – Assist. Prof. Dr. Ahmet Dülger

》Footsteps of Change in the Constitution of Bosnia and Herzegovina? A Review of the ECtHR’s Kovačević v. B&H Decision – Elif Aslı Akyüz

》Guardians or Gatekeepers? Quandaries of the Principle of Non-Refoulement at the EU External Borders – Ermelinda Muçaj

After the completion of the presentations, the closing and evaluation session was held with Dr. Sevba Abdula, Assist. Prof. Dr. Bujamin Bela, Prof. Dr. Faruk Bal, and Assist. Prof. Dr. Ahmet Köroğlu. During the session, participants engaged in discussions about the overall process of the Balkan Studies Congress, as well as broader topics related to Balkan studies, academic work, and research endeavors.

Center for Political, Economic and Social Research

Balkan Politics Series

Balkan Studies Foundation will publish a Balkan Politics Series. Edited by Dr. Sevba Abdula and Prof. Ali Erken, the series aims to publish editions on 5 different topics: Political Parties, Political Ideologies, Political Sociology, Foreign Policy, Religion-State Relations.

Call for Book Chapters

Balkan Politics: An Analysis of Political Parties of Balkans Countries

*Invitation to Contribute

We invite scholars, researchers, and experts to contribute to a forthcoming volume in our “Balkan Politics Series (Academic Editorial)”, dedicated to Balkan Politics: An Analysis of Political Parties of Balkans Countries, journey from 1991 to 2024. This volume aims to present a comprehensive analysis of Balkan Countries political parties such as party systems, party ideologies, party organizations, electoral strategies, etc.

* Suggested Topics for Submission

1. Party Systems
2. Historical Development of Political Parties
3. Electoral Strategies and Campaigns
4. Comparative Party Politics
5. Party Organization and Structure
6. Party Ideology and Policy
7. Party Systems and Electoral Laws
8. Party Membership and Activism
9. Political Socialization and Recruitment
10. Party and Government Relations
11. Other related issues

* Editors: Dr. Sevba Abdula, Prof.Dr. Ali Erken

* Submit proposal: https://forms.gle/hRWia2kAEWV87Z2p6

Proposal Deadline: 30 September 2024

Announcement of accepted proposals: 10 October 2024

Chapter Deadline: 30 December 2024

Publication of book: March 2025

General Framework

* Book Chapter Proposals

–Length: 750-1000 words.

–Content: Provide a concise yet comprehensive overview of the chapter’s main arguments, methodologies, and findings.

* Chapter Structure

-Length: Each chapter should consist of 6000-9000 words, including footnotes.

-Language: All chapters must be written in English.

–Formatting:

– Use Microsoft Word with a minimum of 2.5 cm margins on all sides.

– The entire text should be in Times New Roman font.

– Font Size: Main text should be size 12 with 1.5 line spacing.

– Chapter Title: Should be in capital letters, bold, size 14.

– Subtitles: Should be in lowercase, regular font, size 12.

* Tables and Figures

– Sequential Numbering: All tables and figures should be numbered in sequential order.

– Footnotes for Tables: Should be placed directly below the table body and indicated in lowercase.

– Minimal Usage: Use tables sparingly and ensure they add value to the text.

– Data Representation: Avoid duplicating data presented in the tables and the text.

* Peer Review and Publication:

• Contributions will undergo peer review for quality and relevance.

* Balkan Countries: North Macedonia, Bulgaria, Greece, Albania, Kosovo, Serbia, Türkiye, Croatia, Bosna-Hercegovina, Montenegro, Slovenia, Romania.

* Additional Notes

– Honorarium: There will be a remuneration for the written contribution.

On the second day, Prof. Dr. Admir Mulaosmanovic delivered two lectures focused on the impact of global political shifts on the Western Balkans, the influence of major powers in the region, and the challenges faced by Balkan states in maintaining stability and growth amidst geopolitical tensions.

On the third day, Prof. Dr. Rizvan Sulejmani delivered two lectures that delved into the internal challenges and risks persisting in the Balkans post-dissolution of the bipolar world order. He explored the influence of major global powers on the Balkan region, highlighting geopolitical dynamics and their implications for regional stability. Afterwards, participants visited Matka Canyon.

On the fourth day, Prof. Dr. Bekim Nuhija delivered two lectures analyzing the geopolitical positions of the Balkan countries and delving into the complexities of international law, specifically focusing on how major powers within the Security Council shape the enforcement of international law and impact global security dynamics. Prof. Dr. Mehmet Bulut delivered the closing keynote speech titled “The Challenges in the World and the Future of Balkan Economies,” providing an overview of global economic trends and their impact on Balkan economies, and offering valuable insights on how these countries can achieve sustainable growth and stability.

On the fifth day, participants visited the Painted Mosque in Tetovo and explored the natural, historical, and cultural aspects of the city of Ohrid.

In addition to lectures, the summer school program included workshops where participants presented their research papers related to Balkan and global politics. The papers presented are as follows:

Workshop 01: EU Policies and Balkans

Moderator: Semran Murtezani

》The Problems of Balkan Countries’ Accession to the European Union – Aizhan Aitbaeva (Kyrgyzstan)

》Regional Cooperation and Trade Liberalization in South Eastern Europe – Blerim Morina (Kosovo)

Workshop 02: Balkans Stability and Relations

Moderator: Semran Murtezani

》Unravelling Instability: Identity Politics and Third-Actors’ Influence in the Western Balkans – Elira Luli (Albania)

》Unraveling the Knot: Exploring the Role of International Power Politics in the Serbo-Albanian Rivalry Over Kosovo – Georgios Antonopoulos (Greece)

Workshop 03: Great Powers and Balkans

Moderator: Semran Murtezani

》China’s Belt and Road Initiative – Arta Haxhixhemajli (Kosovo)

》How Does Russian Influence Impact the Western Balkans’ Security? – Harun Nuhanović (Bosnia and Herzegovina)

》The Balkans as a test for the Militarization of Türkiye`s foreign policy Hypothesis – Dr. Marian Karagyozov (Bulgaria)

Workshop 04: Identity, History and Balkans

Moderator: Semran Murtezani

》Navigating the Crossroads: Constitutional Reform and the Rule of Law in the Balkans on the Path to EU Integration – Lorenca Bejko (Albania)

》Austria-Hungary’s Annexation of Bosnia and Herzegovina in Humor Magazines – Hakan Şendilmen (Türkiye)

》The “Neutrality” of Austria during the Ottoman-Russian War of 1877-1878 through Greek-language Newspapers of the Ottoman State – Maria Ntisli (Greece)

》The role of foreign policy in soft power politics: a case study of Türkiye’s Yunus Emre Institute Language Policies in Bosnia and Herzegovina – Yunus Dilber (Türkiye)

Workshops that took place today:

Workshop 03: Great Powers and Balkans

Moderator: Semran Murtezani

》China’s Belt and Road Initiative – Arta Haxhixhemajli (Kosovo)

》How Does Russian Influence Impact the Western Balkans’ Security? – Harun Nuhanović (Bosnia and Herzegovina)

》The Balkans as a test for the Militarization of Türkiye`s foreign policy Hypothesis – Dr. Marian Karagyozov (Bulgaria)

Workshop 04: Identity, History and Balkans

Moderator: Semran Murtezani

》Navigating the Crossroads: Constitutional Reform and the Rule of Law in the Balkans on the Path to EU Integration – Lorenca Bejko (Albania)

》Austria-Hungary’s Annexation of Bosnia and Herzegovina in Humor Magazines – Hakan Şendilmen (Türkiye)

》The “Neutrality” of Austria during the Ottoman-Russian War of 1877-1878 through Greek-language Newspapers of the Ottoman State – Maria Ntisli (Greece)

》The role of foreign policy in soft power politics: a case study of Türkiye’s Yunus Emre Institute Language Policies in Bosnia and Herzegovina – Yunus Dilber (Türkiye)

At the end of the program, the participants visited Matka Canyon.

During the ceremony, Mr. Orhan Murtezani, the Minister for European Affairs, delivered a keynote speech on the significance of the Balkans in global politics. He highlighted that the Balkans are not just a geographical region, but a historically rich area often marked by conflicts and political influences. He emphasized the importance of understanding emerging geopolitical realities to grasp the complexity of contemporary global politics. Mr. Murtezani stated, “Our aspiration to be part of the European family goes beyond merely aligning with EU standards; it involves actively applying European values, which we see as foundational for building the future of our country and region. By doing so, we aim to position ourselves as a dynamic, proactive player on both regional and global stages.”

He also envisioned the Balkans as a region of interconnected futures, where collaboration in infrastructure, digital innovations, and energy projects can create powerful synergies for regional growth and stability. He emphasized that regional cooperation is indispensable, noting, “By demonstrating maturity and respect as a regional actor, the Western Balkans can amplify its voice and influence on the international stage through unity.”

The summer school will host participants from various countries over the next four days. The program includes lectures and presentations by participants, fostering a collaborative and educational environment.

The first lecture of the summer school was delivered by Admir Mulaosmanovic. In his lecture, titled “Global Trajectories: The World in Change,” Mulaosmanovic explored the relationship between global changes and the Balkan countries.

At the end, the participants, along with Dr. Besnik Emini, explored the historical and cultural aspects of the Old Bazaar of Skopje.

During the conversation, Assist. Prof. Dr. Bujamin Bela discussed the projects and activities within the research centers of the Balkan Studies Foundation, particularly the ongoing projects such as the Skopje Academy, Panel Discussions, Balkan Studies Congress, Journal of Balkan Studies, International Summer School, and IDEFE Publications. Additionally, during the program, the role and value of non-formal education and raising awareness of intellectual, scientific, and academic activities in the Balkan region were discussed.

You can watch the full program at the following link:

https://youtu.be/ZPtmyDw3PkI?si=zBwI15zDqYvBXenQ  

Drejtori i qendrës për studime politike, ekonomike dhe sociale në kuadër të Fondacionit, Doc. Dr. Bujamin Bela, ishte i ftuar i gazetarit Emrah Bilalli në emisionin “Ditë e Re” në televizionin Alsat M.

Gjatë bashkëbisedimit Doc. Dr. Bujamin Bela trajtoi projektet dhe aktivitetet në kuadër të qendrave hulumtuese të Fondacionit për Studime Ballkanike, në veçanti për projektet që realizohen në vazhdimësi si Akademia Shkupi, Panel Diskutimet, Kongresi për Studime Ballkanike, Revista për Studime Ballkanike, Shkolla Verore Ndërkombëtare, dhe shtëpia botuese IDEFE. Në të njëjtën kohë, gjatë emisionit u diskutua edhe për rolin dhe vlerën e arsimit joformal dhe ngritjen e vetëdijes për veprimtarinë intelektuale, shkencore dhe akademike në rajonin e Ballkanit.

Emisionin e plotë mund ta ndiqni në linkun në vijim:

https://youtu.be/ZPtmyDw3PkI?si=zBwI15zDqYvBXenQ

The Center for Political, Economic, and Social Research hosted a panel discussion today on the topic “North Macedonia Between East and West” with panelists Prof. Dr. Sefer Tahiri and Ismail Sinani, moderated by Assist. Prof. Dr. Murat Aliu.

During the panel, the concepts of East and West, and our perception of these concepts, were discussed. Additionally, the historical and political dilemmas of Macedonians and Albanians in general, and Macedonia in particular, were examined in the context of new geopolitical constellations. The discussion focused on the need to redefine new models of political and historical balance and the values upon which we will build our lives as a people and as a state.

Panel diskutim: Maqedonia e Veriut ndërmjet Lindjes dhe Perëndimit: Fiksion apo Realitet!

Në kuadër të qendrës për studime politike, ekonomike dhe sociale u realizua panel diskutimi me temë “Maqedonia e Veriut ndërmjet Lindjes dhe Perëndimit: Fiksion apo Realitet!” me panelistë Prof. Dr. Sefer Tahiri dhe Ismail Sinani, moderuar nga Doc. Dr. Murat Aliu.

Gjatë panelit u diskutuan konceptet e Lindjes dhe Perëndimit dhe perceptimi ynë për këto koncepte. Gjithashtu, dilemat historike dhe politike të maqedonasve dhe shqiptarëve në përgjithësi, dhe Maqedonisë në veçanti, u shqyrtuan në kontekstin e konstelacioneve të reja gjeopolitike. Diskutimi u fokusua në nevojën për të ripërcaktuar modele të reja të ekuilibrit politik dhe historik dhe vlerat mbi të cilat do të ndërtojmë jetën tonë si popull dhe si shtet.

The Center for Political, Economic, and Social Research hosted a panel discussion today on the topic “North Macedonia’s Dual Elections: Implications and Perspectives” with panelists Abil Baush and Xhenur Iseni, moderated by Assist. Prof. Dr. Murat Aliu.

During the panel, participants delved specifically into the impact of elections on the economic aspects of the country, the platforms and activities of political parties during the election campaign, political culture, and the potential long-term effects on national policy.

Panel diskutim: Zgjedhjet e dyfishta në Maqedoninë e Veriut: Implikimet dhe Perspektivat

Në kuadër të qendrës për studime politike, ekonomike dhe sociale u realizua panel diskutimi me temë “Zgjedhjet e dyfishta në Maqedoninë e Veriut: Implikimet dhe Perspektivat” me panelistë Abil Baush dhe Xhenur Iseni, moderuar nga Doc. Dr. Murat Aliu.

Gjatë panelit, diskutimi u fokusua në mënyrë specifike në ndikimin e zgjedhjeve në aspektet ekonomike të vendit, platformat dhe aktivitetet e partive politike gjatë fushatës zgjedhore, kulturën politike, dhe efektet e mundshme afatgjata në politikën kombëtare.

The Center for Political, Economic, and Social Research hosted a panel discussion today on the topic “Reflections on the North Macedonia Election Results,” with panelists Dr. Sevba Abdula, Ismail Aliji, Assist. Prof. Dr. Murat Aliu, and Seyyid Emin.

During the panel, the participants delved into various aspects of the election process, offering insights into pre-election campaigns, examining political party election programs, and analyzing key factors influencing voter behavior. The discussion also covered post-election reflections on the outcomes and implications for the political landscape in North Macedonia.

Click here to access the full panel discussion.

Panel: Kuzey Makedonya Seçim Sonuçlarının Yansımaları 

Siyaset, Ekonomi ve Toplum Araştırmaları Merkezi bugün “Kuzey Makedonya Seçim Sonuçlarının Yansımaları” konulu bir panele ev sahipliği yaptı. Panelde konuşmacı olarak Dr. Sevba Abdula, İsmail Aliji, Dr. Murat Aliu ve Seyyid Emin yer aldı.

Panelde katılımcılar seçim sürecinin çeşitli yönlerini ele alarak seçim öncesi kampanyalar hakkında, siyasi partilerin seçim programları hakkında ve seçmen davranışını etkileyen temel faktörler hakkında analizler sundular. Tartışmada ayrıca seçim sonrası Kuzey Makedonya’daki siyasi ortamın sonuçları ve etkileri üzerine düşünceler de ele alındı.

Panelin tamamı için tıklayınız.

The panelists discussed the treatment of nationalism as a notion, the definition of the term nationalism, and its impact on North Macedonia and the Balkan countries in general. Additionally, the panel focused on the process of integrating the Balkan countries into the European Union, Euroscepticism, progress, current inter-neighboring challenges of the Balkan countries that prolong the progress of European integration, and other related topics.

*

Panel diskutim: Ballkani ndërmjet nacionalizmit dhe europianizimit

Në kuadër të qendrës për studime politike, ekonomike dhe sociale u realizua panel diskutimi me temë “Ballkani ndërmjet nacionalizmit dhe europianizimit” me panelistë Mirela Saiti dhe Rilind Dauti.

Panelistët diskutuan rreth trajtimit të nacionalizmit si nocion, definimit të termit nacionalizëm dhe impakti i saj në Maqedoninë e Veriut dhe vendet e Ballkanit në përgjithësi. Në të njëjtën kohë, gjatë panelit u debatua edhe për procesin e integrimit të vendeve të Ballkanit në Unionin Evropian, euroskepticizmi, progresi, sfidat aktuale ndërfqinjësore të vendeve të Ballkanit që prolongojnë ecurinë e eurointegrimit, dhe të tjera.

***

Panell diskutim: Ideologjia, Ballkani dhe Postmodernizmi Në kuadër të qendrës për studime politike, ekonomike dhe sociale u realizua panel diskutimi me temë “Ideologjia, Ballkani dhe Postmodernizmi” me panelistë Prof. Dr. Avni Avdiu nga Universiteti “Nënë Tereza” në Shkup dhe Asst. Dr. Murat Aliu nga Universiteti “Nënë Tereza” , i cili panel u moderua nga Berat Alili. Paneli u fokusua në shtjellimin e ideologjisë në aspekt terminologjik, politik, historik dhe social në kuadër të kontekstit evropian dhe atë Ballkanik, si dhe reflektimi i ideologjisë në kohën postmoderniste në partitë politike dhe jetën ekonomike-sociale

***

Panel diskutim: Hulumtimi dhe prodhimi i dijes: shkencat ekzakte dhe sociale Në kuadër të qendrës për studime politike, ekonomike dhe sociale u realizua panel diskutimi me temë “Hulumtimi dhe prodhimi i dijes: shkencat ekzakte dhe sociale” me panelistë të shquar si Prof. Dr. Bashkim Ziberi nga Universiteti i Tetovës dhe Doc. Dr. Urime Demiri Shaipi nga Universiteti “Nënë Tereza” në Shkup, i cili panel u moderuar nga drejtori i qendrës, Doc. Dr. Bujamin Bela. Gjatë panelit u diskutua rreth sfidave të punës hulumtuese-shkencore në Maqedoninë e Veriut dhe vendet e Ballkanit, si dhe krahasimi i kushteve dhe kulturës së punës hulumtuese me vendet e zhvilluara. Panelistët gjatë diskutimit transferuan përvoja individuale rreth punës hulumtuese të tyre në institucione prestigjioze ndërkombëtare, si Universiteti i Harvardit, Universiteti Brunei, dhe institucione të tjera, si dhe ofrimin e alternativave për zhvillimin e kushteve dhe nxitjes së faktorëve adekuat për punën hulumtuese-shkencore në vendin tonë.

– Call for Book Chapters –

Balkan Economies Series (Academic Editorial): 

A Comprehensive Analysis of Economic Structure, Transition, and Transformation in the Balkan Countries: N. Macedonia (1991-2023) 

Invitation to Contribute 

We invite scholars, researchers, and experts to contribute to a forthcoming volume in our “Balkan Economies Series (Academic Editorial)”, dedicated to North Macedonia’s economic journey from 1991 to 2023. This volume aims to present a comprehensive analysis of North Macedonia’s economic structure, transition, and transformation within this period.

Suggested Topics for Submission 

• Historical Context and Pre-Independence Economic Conditions: Exploring the economic landscape of North Macedonia before 1991.
• Early Economic Policies, Post-Independence Challenges, and Macroeconomic stability: Analysis of initial economic strategies and hurdles faced by the newly independent Macedonia: “Inflation and Unemployment rate”.
• Agricultural and Industrial Sector Changes: Examination of transformations in agriculture and industry since independence.
• Service Sector Growth, Including ICT: Insights into the development of the service sector, with a focus on Information and Communication Technology.
• Evolution of Banking, Capital Market Development, and Financial Sectors Post-1991: Assessment of changes and growth in banking and finance, interest rate, and money supply since 1991.
• Trade Policies, Export-Import Dynamics, and Globalization Effects: Analysis of Macedonia’s trade policies, FDI, tax incentives and its interactions with global markets.
• EU Integration Efforts, Challenges, and Impacts: Reviewing Macedonia’s efforts to integrate into the European Union, and the resulting challenges and impacts.
• Social Impacts of Economic Changes, Labor Productivity and Competitiveness: Investigating how economic transformations have affected labor, welfare, inequality, technology, and entrepreneurship.
• Analysis of Economic Crises and Responses: Studying Macedonia’s approach to handling economic crises.
• Current Trends, Future Challenges, and Opportunities: Predicting future economic trends and identifying potential challenges and opportunities for Macedonia.

Submission Details 

Proposal Deadline: 01 April 2024

Announcement of accepted proposal submission: 20 April 2024

Chapter Deadline: 01 September 2024

Announcement of chapter submission: 20 September 2024

Publication of book: 01 December 2024

Submission link: 

https://forms.gle/W87deWG7Uz8S62sk7

Contact us: info@balkanfoundation.com

General Framework 

• Chapter Proposal 

• • Length: 750-1000 words.
  • Content: Provide a concise yet comprehensive overview of the chapter’s main arguments, methodologies, and findings.

• Chapter Structure 

• • Length: Each chapter should consist of 6000-9000 words, including footnotes.
  • Language: All chapters must be written in English.
  • Formatting:
    • Use Microsoft Word with a minimum of 2.5 cm margins on all sides.
    • The entire text should be in Times New Roman font.
    • Font Size: Main text should be size 12 with 1.5 line spacing.
    • Chapter Title: Should be in capital letters, bold, size 14.
    • Subtitles: Should be in lowercase, regular font, size 12.

• Tables and Figures 

• • Sequential Numbering: All tables and figures should be numbered in sequential order.
  • Footnotes for Tables: Should be placed directly below the table body and indicated in lowercase.
  • Minimal Usage: Use tables sparingly and ensure they add value to the text.
  • Data Representation: Avoid duplicating data presented in the tables and the text.

• Peer Review and Publication: 

• • Contributions will undergo peer review for quality and relevance.

• Additional Notes 

• • Honorarium: There will be a remuneration for the written contribution

• Editors: Dr. Bujamin Bela, Dr. Serdar Serdaroğlu

The International Balkan Studies Congress is an international event organized to promote interdisciplinary studies in the field of social sciences, contributing to qualified and original academic output. The 4th Balkan Studies Congress is being organized in cooperation with the International University of Sarajevo and is supported by the Presidency for Turks Abroad and Related Communities, University of Tetova, International Balkan University, Istanbul Medeniyet University, and İLEM: Scientific Studies Association. The Congress will be held in Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina, on the premises of the International University of Sarajevo.

The International Balkan Studies Congress aims to create a networking environment among academics in the Balkan region, fostering the academic and scientific atmosphere within the region, and developing scientific methodology in the Balkans. Previous Congresses have hosted more than 90 participants from the countries of the Balkans, as well as Türkiye, Azerbaijan, Greece, Slovenia, Kyrgyzstan, Nigeria, and Morocco. The 1st Balkan Studies Congress was held in Skopje, the 2nd Balkan Studies Congress in Tirana, the 3rd Balkan Studies Congress in Istanbul, and this year it will be held in Sarajevo.

The Congress applies the blind peer review system; the abstracts and full papers that are submitted will be accepted after being evaluated by reviewers who are experts in their field. The papers chosen at the end of the Congress will be published by the Balkan Studies Foundation to admit the presentations taking place at the Congress to the scientific world.

Registration and Submission Link: https://bsc.congress.gen.tr/ 

For further information visit: www.congressbalkan.com 

Contact us: info@congressbalkan.com

In the most general sense, this project is about determining the constants, changes, developments, fractures and tendencies of the social structures of the Balkan countries at certain intervals and repetitively, taking into account the great transformations of the Balkan countries in the last 30 years, and to be able to offer solutions by setting the year 2023 as the starting point and North Macedonia as the first country. This framework includes accessing and interpreting data through surveys and qualitative analysis methods. The main topics of population, socio-economic life, working life, political attitude, culture, (law, education) include analyzing and interpreting societies through sub-headings such as demography, migration, property, income, consumption, savings, work, employment, working life, identity, political party/attitude, international relations, security, religion, religious life, values, state/bureaucracy, lawsuits, corruption.

Objective

The project primarily aims to produce scientific data on the social structure of the Balkans in the long term. Through the data to be produced, it aims to produce a basis for comparative analysis and interpretation of the social structure of the countries in the Balkans for the relevant policy makers and beneficiaries in a way to reveal time series. This comparative data will reveal the changes, fractures and future perspectives on the social structures of the Balkans and related countries. As the first pillar of the project, it aims to interpret the constants, trends and expectations by analyzing the data obtained through surveys on 5 main variables that largely determine the social structure of North Macedonia in the short term.