Ethnic identity, a concept that describes a form of identification and situates individuals within groups based on shared values, beliefs, or descent, has received a lot of attention in social...Show moreEthnic identity, a concept that describes a form of identification and situates individuals within groups based on shared values, beliefs, or descent, has received a lot of attention in social sciences. Constructivist theories presume that ethnicity is fluid and dynamic, which means that it is constructed via social structures and therefore changes over time. Thus far, research offers different theories on the formation of identity and what factors may influence an increase in its salience. Intergroup conflict and civil war can be one factor that links ethnic grievances to the construction of identity. But what happens after conflict? How do identities change and how do ethnic grievances persist over time? This paper seeks to answer these questions by incorporating a theoretical framework on the formation of identity, collective memory, and intergenerational transmission of conflict. Taking the case of Bosnia-Hercegovina as a post-conflict region, I demonstrate a difference in identification and intergroup attitudes between second-generation Bosnian Croats in Bosnia and the diaspora. Using a qualitative research design, 20 interviews with second-generation Bosnian Croats were held and contrary to my expectations, the results suggest that ethnic categories may be more salient among the diaspora identification. Surprisingly, local respondents identify more strongly via nationality, despite their socialization in an ethnically divided society. Furthermore, increased intergroup contact has proven to be effective in overcoming ethnic grievances which highlights the importance of reconciliation for long-lasting peace.Show less
In this thesis, I examine the effects of migration on national identity in the context of borders through an interpretive political auto-ethnography, as a person born into a Turkish family in...Show moreIn this thesis, I examine the effects of migration on national identity in the context of borders through an interpretive political auto-ethnography, as a person born into a Turkish family in Istanbul and a migrant to the Netherlands. I explore how my Turkish national identity has been (de/ re)constructed throughout my experiences In and Out of Borders. I draw on what Matthew Longo explores in his book The Politics of Borders as the thick description of borders: Borders from the Outside and Borders for the Inside; while bridging it to Julia Kristeva’s concept of Stranger in her book Strangers to Ourselves to explore how migration affected my national identity. Furthermore, I bring elements from psychoanalysis and education, as well as deepening the research by incorporating the stories of five people with whom I discussed how they experience the same phenomenon I analyze in this paper. By conducting relational interviews, I gather their views on topics such as migration, identity, education, and memories of upbringing within the context of Turkish national identity and migration to the Netherlands. I further discuss the use of interpretive methods in political science and emphasize the importance of sharing individual stories.Show less
