Essay: (Re)Thinking and (Re)Imagining South-Eastern Europe or an Intellectual Journey to the Balkans
This essay aims to stimulate a broad scholarly and public discussion about the definition, perceptions, identities, (re)conceptualizations, (re)imagining and (re)thinking the Balkans and South-Eastern Europe. It addresses the objectivity and attitudes in research and scholarly literature, historic and current stereotypes and imaginations in general as well as specifically with regard to the region. In this context it discusses also different definitions and competing conceptualizations of the region that often, in European reality, has served as the relevant “other.” In addition to stimulating public and scholarly discussions this contribution also attempts to promote a positive imagining and perceptions of South-Eastern Europe that can build upon the cultural and historic richness, diversities and potentials of the region. It argues for the construction of open, inclusive and positive identities that will stimulate integration and be important segments of successful diversity management.