The Role of the Muslim Minorities in Interstate Relations in the Balkans

Authors : İlhan UZGEL

Pages : 95-132

Doi:10.1501/Intrel_0000000166

View : 33 | Download : 8

Publication Date : 1982-05-01

Article Type : Research Paper

Abstract :The beginning of the 1990s has vvitnessed enormous changes and upheavals in the structure of Balkan politics, conıparable with that of the first two decades of the 1900s. Socialist regimes collapsed, nationalism is on the rise in its most fervent form, nevv states emerged, ethnic wars are undervvay, new relationships are set up, and so on. Within a very short span of time, there have taken place great changes, making it difficult even for observers to catch up with developments. Yet, some characteristics peculiar to the region are stili prevalent such as the problems conceming ethnicity and minority issues, and disputes in the Aegean Sea. These questions stili play an important role in determining the policies of the Balkan states. It has long been a commonplace to commence an interpretation of the Balkans by saying that it is a very complicated area vvhich is prone to ardent nationalism and ethnic tension due to its special geographicaİ character and historical background. The area is complicated, not only in terms of ethnic, national, and religious diversity, but it is also politically very complex. Turkey and Greece, both members of NATO and other Western organizations, have problems in their bilateral relations, particularly the long-standing Cyprus question and minority issues. Bulgaria vvas the closest ally of the Soviet Union. Yugoslavia had been a leading member of the Non-Alignment Movement. Albania vvas a self-isolated country, once the only European country outside CSCE, and also the only country that declared itself to be atheist. 
Keywords : The Role, Muslim Minorities, Relations

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