Serbia, Bosnia, and Kosovo: Peace and Conflict Studies in the Balkans

Educational Excursions

Witness the impact of conflict and its aftermath in different settings throughout the region.

The program incorporates educational excursions to Bosnia-Herzegovina and Kosovo, allowing students to witness the effects of conflict and its aftermath in different settings. Students discover the ongoing efforts of various groups working to make the transition from conflict to reconciliation and hear diverse perspectives on current realities and challenges.

Bosnia-Herzegovina
As a result of the Dayton Agreement, Bosnia was divided into two political entities: the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina and the Republika Srpska.
During this excursion, students will focus on topics such as Islam in Bosnia, post-war reconciliation and peacebuilding, the role of the international community in Bosnia, and EU accession. Additionally, they will be introduced to post-Dayton realities and challenges and visit both Banja Luka and Sarajevo.

During this period, students also may visit Sanski Most and the Center for Peacebuilding, Mostar, famous for its ancient bridge reconstructed in 2004, following its destruction in the last war. In Mostar, students may meet with students of the United World College (UWC). Alternatively, they may visit the memorial site to victims of Srebrenica and spend time at the Kuca Poverenje (house of Trust). Students may also have the chance to visit the University of Banja Luka and meet with local students.

Kosovo
Kosovo recently declared unilateral independence, unrecognized by Serbia. During this excursion, students will visit Kosovo’s capital Prishtina and be exposed to the different realities and point of view regarding the future of the frozen conflict in Kosovo. Students will witness the change of power relations in Kosovo, discuss issues relating to minority rights and human rights, and experience firsthand the vibrancy and energy of a newly independent state.

During the excursion, students will be hosted at the Human Rights Center at the University of Prishtina. Presentations by local organizations could focus on non-violent activism, activism for self-determination, memory and myths, and the role of the international community and organizations such as the UN, OSCE, and the current EULEX structures.

Please note, this excursion could be modified or cancelled, should the political situation in Kosovo, as assessed by SIT, merit a change in plans.