Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin - Department of Social Sciences - Berlin Graduate School of Social Science

Cohort

BGSS Generation 2023

Title

On the brink of new regional conflict or turning point towards stabilization and the EU integration: The impact of Russia’s war in Ukraine on Serbia and Kosovo relations

Supervisor

Prof. Dr. Gwendolyn Sasse

Abstract

With a background in international relations/diplomacy, world politics, and human rights and democracy in Southeast Europe, Ajla’s doctoral research will focus on the impact of Russia’s war in Ukraine on Southeast Europe, particularly Serbia and Kosovo. Russia’s unprovoked and unjustified invasion of Ukraine has shattered peace and stability in Europe. The invasion of a sovereign country has never been acceptable, and the Russian invasion of Ukraine has left many countries unprepared and in shock. Putin’s misuse of certain terms to justify the unjust war in Ukraine and the aggression itself raises certain concerns about potential conflicts/wars in some other European regions such as Southeast Europe. This topic is very relevant in today’s world, which is characterized by a growing number of conflicts that have implications for potential new conflicts and wars, especially in societies where “battlefield heroism” is regularly celebrated. Moreover, this study is multidisciplinary, combining political, security, international relations and law, and sociological studies. Therefore, it also employs qualitative research methods. Ultimately, this study has practical implications for understanding the impact of Russia’s war in Ukraine on the Western Balkans in particular Serbia and Kosovo.