This paper looks at the role of collective narratives (CNs) in the process of European integration of Serbia and Croatia. CNs are stories of the past that are widely shared by a group. While being fluid social constructions whose meaning and resonance evolve, they constitute a stable frame which political actors (have to) use to promote specific policies.
Making use of its great leverage, the European Union (EU) set additional requirements for Serbia’s and Croatia’s accession such as cooperating fully with the International Criminal Tribunal for the former Yugoslavia, solving borders issues, finding a status for Kosovo and fostering regional cooperation. EU leverage has its limits though, especially when requirements collide with national collective narratives.
Through a qualitative analysis of political documents, I show that CNs impact on regional cooperation and peace-building efforts in the Western Balkans as they underpin a country’s identity, structure interests and preferences, and condition action.
