THE ROLE OF THE SERBIAN ORTHODOX CHURCH IN THE KOSOVO CONFLICT: REFLECTIONS ON THE ROLE OF RELIGION IN INTRA-STATE CONFLICTS (original) (raw)

It is possible to observe a strong link between religion and national identities in the Balkans. Hence, this article explores this relationship in the context of the conflict in Kosovo, concluding that the Serbian Orthodox Church played a role in strengthening Serbian nationalism in Kosovo, which intensified the facts that led to the conflict escalation and to the attacks against the Albanian Kosovars. This case can be analysed as an example of the role of religion in intra-state conflicts. The authors conclude that inter-faith dialogue should be taken into account in peace-building contexts. Based on bibliography related to this issue and with the study case as a method, the authors argue that inter-religious dialogue should be a relevant issue in peace-building debates.