Albanian National Identity and the Pseudo-Division “Kosovar” – A Critical-Scientific Analysis of Identity Constructs and Political Engineering
Flamur Buccpapaj
Abstract
This paper addresses the tension between the Albanian national identity and the construction of a distinct “Kosovar” identity, examining the latter as a politically and ideologically engineered construct. Through a historical, sociological, and philosophical analysis, it explores how this pseudo-division threatens national unity, undermines historical memory, and generates ontological insecurity within the Albanian collective consciousness.
- Introduction: The Problematic Interweaving of Identity and Statehood
In the post-war period in Kosovo, a steady tendency has been observed to divide Albanian identity into two distinct categories: “Albanian” and “Kosovar.” Initially emerging as an expression of Kosovo’s statehood subjectivity, this phenomenon has gradually transformed into a project that risks fragmenting national belonging, pushing toward a new form of cultural and psychological division.
- Historical Roots of Albanian Identity
From the Illyrians to the Independence of 1912
Albanian identity is built on a historical continuity connecting the Illyrians to modern Albanians through language, traditions, customs, and a shared historical consciousness. The National Renaissance of the 19th century marked the moment of the self-aware articulation of this identity, affirming the unity of all Albanian territories.
Identity in Kosovo: Historically Albanian
Kosovo, despite foreign rule, has always been an integral part of the Albanian national body. Historians such as Noel Malcolm emphasize that Kosovo’s Albanian affiliation is a well-established reality, supported by historical legacy and social structures.
- The Evolution of the Term “Kosovar” and the Creation of a New Construct
Initial Meaning: Territorial and Inclusive Term
The term “Kosovar” was traditionally used to describe all residents of Kosovo, without ethnic implications.
After 1999: From Administrative Definition to Ethnic Identity
Following international intervention and Kosovo’s declaration of independence in 2008, the term “Kosovar” began acquiring an ethnic dimension, promoted as the basis for a new identity, often in opposition to Albanianhood.
The Role of International Actors and Local Institutions
According to David L. Phillips, this is a deliberate strategy to neutralize Albanian nationalism and build a “multiethnic” state, where ethnic affiliation is relativized and transformed into a neutral civic identity.
- Ideological and Political Consequences of This Project
Fragmentation of Collective Memory
By creating a new identity divide, the link to historical roots is broken and an alternative narrative is established that relativizes national suffering and resistance.
Artificial Separation from Albania
Often in the name of modernism, the idea is promoted that Kosovo Albanians are “different” from those in Albania, which contributes to the formation of a new awareness distanced from the common identity.
The Risk of “Planned De-Nationalization”
Ardian Ndreca explains that this division begins as a discourse and ends as political reality, creating a “new nation” disconnected from its cultural genesis and continuity.
- The Role of Elites and Media in Building the New Identity
Political elites, motivated by external interests or pragmatic calculations, have contributed to the spread of this artificial identity. Media, school textbooks, and institutional discourse have helped normalize this change in terminology and meaning.
According to a Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung study (2020), a considerable percentage of young people in Kosovo self-identify as “Kosovar,” often unaware of the ideological consequences of this choice.
- Philosophical and Sociological Approaches: Identity as Simulacrum
Baudrillard: The Simulacrum that Replaces Reality
The “Kosovar” identity, promoted as an alternative, represents a simulacrum – a replacement of the authentic Albanian identity with a politically constructed representation.
Heidegger: The Fall from Authentic Existence
According to Heideggerian philosophy, man must live in accordance with his deepest being. Separation from national belonging represents a break from the authenticity of being, a “fall” into manipulated existence.
Social Engineering and Ideological Colonialism
This approach is similar to colonial practices of divide and rule. New identities were created to more easily manage indigenous populations.
- The Way Forward: Narrative Unification and Consolidation of National Identity
Faced with the risk of fragmentation, it is essential to reaffirm the Albanian identity as a historical, cultural, and ethnic whole that includes all Albanian territories. This does not exclude internal pluralism, but it rejects artificial divisions arising from external strategies.
Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung. Kosovo Youth Study. Prishtina, 2020.
Baudrillard, Jean. Simulacra and Simulation. Éditions Galilée, 1981.
Heidegger, Martin. Being and Time. Niemeyer Verlag, 1927.
Anderson, Benedict. Imagined Communities: Reflections on the Origin and Spread of Nationalism. Verso Books, 1983.
Gellner, Ernest. Nations and Nationalism. Cornell University Press, 1983.
Smith, Anthony D. National Identity. University of Nevada Press, 1991.
Development
In the post-war period, after Kosovo’s declaration of independence, it became clear that the Albanian identity, which encompassed all Albanians in the region, faced a major challenge. The distinction between “Albanians” and “Kosovars” has taken on a deep and multifaceted meaning, creating a division not only physical, but also psychological and cultural. This phenomenon, often portrayed as a natural process in the development of Kosovo’s state identity, has evolved from a territorial identity into an attempt to build an independent national identity, which in reality risks creating a deep rift between Albanians in Kosovo and those in Albania.
Considering that Albanian national identity has historically been built upon a shared cultural, linguistic, and historical heritage, dividing this identity into two such categories seems like a continuous and deliberate intervention, aimed at creating a deep and lasting division between the Albanians of Kosovo and those of Albania. This process is also aided by international political factors, which have often promoted a new Kosovar identity as a way to reinforce Kosovo’s independence and to avoid a potential unification with Albania.
Within this context, one of the greatest risks is that this division may produce a new generation that, having grown up with such an identity split, will see itself more as “Kosovar” and less as Albanian. This could damage the sense of national belonging and create a significant distance from the shared history and heritage. Meanwhile, this identity split may also introduce uncertainty in the relationships among ethnic and political groups in the region, further worsening the natural tensions between Albanians and other ethnic groups.
In particular, political elites and media in Kosovo have played a key role in supporting this process. Some politicians, influenced by international interests and seeking to strengthen their political positions, have promoted this division as a necessary step toward consolidating Kosovo’s statehood, focusing more on a distinct state identity than on the broader Albanian national identity. In this way, political intervention has become a powerful tool in creating a lasting cultural and psychological divide.
However, this phenomenon is not without major consequences. It may threaten Kosovo’s social and political integration and lead to a more fragmented society, where individuals and groups feel more connected to the state of Kosovo than to the cultural and historical heritage that unites Albanians across all territories. If this process continues, it could have significant impacts on Albanian national unity and on the relationships between Albanians in Kosovo and those in Albania.
Ultimately, in order to preserve Albanian identity and national unity, Kosovo must build an identity that supports and respects the cultural and historical wealth of Albanians as a whole, avoiding unnecessary divisions and fragmentations. Only by strengthening the cultural and historical ties between Albanians in Kosovo and those in Albania can a stable and harmonious future be secured for all Albanians.
The Evolution of the Term “Kosovar” and the Creation of a New Construct
Original meaning: Territorial and inclusive term
At the beginning of its use, the term “Kosovar” had a simple and inclusive meaning, used to refer to all inhabitants of Kosovo, without implying any ethnic or cultural division. This initial use was primarily a territorial label that suggested a shared belonging among all those who lived in the region, regardless of ethnic, religious, or cultural affiliation.
During the period before and during Yugoslavia, the term “Kosovar” was used in a context that connected this identity to the territory and administration of Kosovo, without emphasizing the ethnic identity of individuals living there. Kosovars could be Albanians, Serbs, Turks, Roma, and other ethnic groups residing in the region. This usage was more of an administrative and geographic definition, reflecting Kosovo’s ethnic and cultural pluralism as part of Yugoslavia.
In this context, the term was not yet synonymous with Albanian ethnic affiliation. Kosovars, according to this meaning, were all those who shared the same territorial space but might have had different ethnic identities. This made the term “Kosovar” an open and inclusive concept, allowing individuals from different ethnic groups to identify as such without being tied to any specific ethnic identity.
In an earlier period, when Kosovo was a province of Yugoslavia, the term was used in relation to the region’s status and its position within the Yugoslav federal system, where Kosovar affiliation could include all citizens of Kosovo, without distinction. This broad and open understanding of the term focused on Kosovo’s territorial and civic identity, rather than on the sharp ethnic division that would emerge later.
After the disintegration of Yugoslavia and the consequences of the war in Kosovo, the term began to take on a different meaning. As Kosovo sought to establish an independent and internationally recognized state, the term “Kosovar” was used to help create a new state identity, one that maintained a distance from the ethnic Albanian identity that had been deeply rooted during the Serbian and Yugoslav regimes. This evolution of the term was followed by its increasing use in a state-building context, linking it to the identity of Kosovo as an independent state recognized by the international community.
In this way, the “Kosovar” affiliation began to aid in building a shared sense of Kosovar citizenship, which could support a new state and a multiethnic society oriented toward the idea of independence and sovereignty. This, however, has further advanced the process of dividing the Albanian ethnic affiliation from Kosovo’s state identity, opening the possibility for individuals to identify as “Kosovar” and not simply as “Albanian,” in a continued process of constructing a distinct and independent identity. The Ideological and Political Consequences of This Project
The Fragmentation of Collective Memory
The creation of a new identity division, where the “Kosovar” identity is often contrasted sharply with the “Albanian” identity, has had profound consequences on how the people of Kosovo experience and share collective memory. This separation has led to a fragmentation of historical memory, undermining the strong link to historical roots and generating an alternative narrative that relativizes, and often ignores, the suffering and national resistance that have marked Albanian history.
In this context, the separation between “Albanian” and “Kosovar” has contributed to the loss of an important dimension of the Albanian people’s collective memory. The Albanian identity has always been closely tied to a shared history and culture, shaped by difficult periods, including wars and persecution. This strong connection helped preserve a common memory carrying a stable narrative of the struggle for freedom, independence, and national rights.
However, the growing divide between these two identities has led to a relativization of this memory. The history of Kosovo, once seen as part of a larger nation, is now increasingly viewed from a narrower perspective in which suffering and national resistance are reduced to a local dimension, stripping them of their broader meaning. This phenomenon has fostered the development of a narrative more focused on the new Kosovar state and the post-war period, neglecting the deep ties with the shared Albanian history.
On an ideological level, this fragmentation of collective memory has major implications. It has created space for an ideology centered on the independent Kosovar state and the construction of a new identity, distancing itself from direct connections with the Albanian national identity. This division can produce a sense of separation, potentially hindering cooperation and solidarity among the different ethnic and national groups in the region.
On a political level, the fragmentation of collective memory poses a significant challenge for Kosovo’s integration and stability. When historical memory is fragmented, it creates uncertainty about the future, as individuals and groups may hold different narratives and histories that no longer unite them around a common goal. This can lead to deeper divisions and make it difficult to build a cohesive and stable society.
Moreover, this fragmentation of collective memory can influence Kosovo’s political processes. It can create new tensions between ethnic groups and undermine the development of a common Kosovar identity that could serve as a foundation for the new state’s growth and consolidation.
Impact on International Relations
While the fragmentation of collective memory deeply affects the internal structure of Kosovar society, it also has significant consequences for Kosovo’s international relations. The creation of a narrowly defined “Kosovar” identity may lead to a limited perception of the Kosovar state and people in relation to other nations, including Albania and the Albanian diaspora.
In this context, challenges may arise in strengthening relations with neighboring countries, such as Albania, which shares deep cultural and historical ties with Kosovo. This identity divide may generate political tensions at the regional level, reducing the potential for full cooperation and international harmony. For instance, Albania—having strongly supported Kosovo’s independence—might feel estranged if Kosovar identity begins to diverge into a more closed and distinct mentality from the Albanian one.
Furthermore, Kosovo may face challenges in its relationships with the European Union (EU) and other regional states, where a shared past and international cooperation are important for Kosovo’s advancement toward integration into global institutions. Identity fragmentation could damage Kosovo’s image as a state contributing to stability and development in the Western Balkans and complicate its EU integration process.
On a diplomatic level, the creation of a distinct “Kosovarism” might offer new opportunities for Kosovo’s positioning on the international stage, but it could also reinforce perceptions of division that harm regional unity and international cooperation. Kosovo may struggle to gain recognition from states that still do not acknowledge its independence, such as Serbia and others, which could exploit this internal division to justify their stance.
The Crisis of Political and National Identity
Another consequence of the identity separation project between “Albanian” and “Kosovar” is the emergence of a potential crisis of political and national identity in Kosovo. Many citizens, including intellectuals and prominent figures in society, may feel torn between two identities: one linked to a broader Albanian history and heritage, and the other as part of a new state with a distinct identity shaped by post-war circumstances.
This crisis may also reflect in Kosovo’s political developments, where parties and leaders may face the challenge of representing a people with a divided sense of identity. Will Kosovar politics focus on preserving a pure Kosovar identity, or rely on a broader Albanian identity that also encompasses Albanians from Albania, North Macedonia, and the diaspora?
In this context, it will be difficult for any political force to create a platform that appeals to all Kosovar citizens, as the different identities are tied to different experiences and histories. Some groups may view identity separation as a chance to strengthen their position in Kosovo, while others may see it as a threat to the unity of the Albanian nation and a step toward dividing it into a new, undefined entity.
In conclusion, the ideological and political consequences of dividing the identity between “Albanian” and “Kosovar” are profound and involve not only challenges to collective memory but also impact international relations and internal political stability. This process may foster a fragmented sense of identity and nationhood, paving the way for a possible identity crisis and societal division in Kosovo.
Risking cooperation and the strengthening of international political and economic ties.
The struggle for identity and alignment with international policies:
If the process of creating a separate Kosovar identity progresses, a conflict may erupt over the definition of national identity. Kosovars could face international pressure to integrate into various global institutions as a distinct entity, but this could complicate cooperation with Albania and create internal tensions at both political and social levels. Albania might view this separation as a threat to national unity and to its regional influence.
The risk of losing international support:
Some politicians and groups in Kosovo may try to distance themselves from the Albanian identity, giving priority to a Kosovar identity in order to create an independent and stable image in the eyes of other states. This move may negatively affect Kosovo’s relations with Albania, leading to a loss of credibility and international support, particularly in the political and diplomatic spheres, where many states — including Albania — support Kosovo’s close integration into international organizations.
The Risk of “Planned De-nationalization”
The risk of planned de-nationalization is a possible and complex phenomenon that may have deep consequences for the Albanian national identity and the relations between the state of Kosovo and Albania. This process could widen cultural divisions, contributing to the fragmentation of collective memory and the erosion of national solidarity. Furthermore, it could undermine the potential for closer cooperation between Kosovo and Albania, also impacting Kosovo’s relationships with other states and its international development.
At a time when a Kosovar identity is being shaped as an independent and distinct concept from the Albanian one, a potential risk is the “planned de-nationalization,” a process that could have long-term and serious consequences for the preservation of Albanian national heritage and for the creation of a shared identity. This phenomenon may endanger the unity of the Albanian nation and deepen cultural, political, and social divisions, with effects not only in Kosovo, but also in Albania and the Albanian diaspora.
This process may be seen as an attempt to dissolve the historical and cultural bond that has existed between Albanians in Kosovo and those in Albania for centuries. Policies promoting a distinct and separate Kosovar identity open the door to deepening divisions and creating a separation between Kosovars and Albanians from Albania. This “de-nationalization” is often linked to an ideology that helps form a new narrative — one many see as unsustainable without a strong connection to the past and to the Albanian national identity.
The creation of a deep cultural and psychological divide:
One of the most visible consequences of planned de-nationalization is the creation of a deep cultural and psychological divide between Albanians of Kosovo and those of Albania. For example, Kosovars may increasingly identify with a distinct “Kosovar” identity rather than an Albanian one, creating a significant rift between them and Albanians in Albania. This divide can develop on several levels:
Psychologically, it may create a sense of distance and incompatibility between the two groups, even though they share the same ethnicity and language.
Culturally, changes may occur in how people perceive themselves and how they identify with one another. If Kosovar culture promotes a distinct and separate identity, this may lead to a strong sense of division, making cooperation and expressions of cultural solidarity more difficult.
The erosion of historical memory and ties with Albania:
Another consequence of this phenomenon is the erosion of historical memory. Kosovars and Albanians from Albania have shared a common history, particularly during struggles for freedom and independence. The use of terms such as “Kosovar” to describe Albanians of Kosovo impacts how this shared history is preserved. By drifting away from the Albanian national identity and fostering a distinct Kosovar identity, many historical events linked to Albania — and the times when Kosovars and Albanians fought side by side for common causes — risk being forgotten. Some shared histories may be downplayed or reinterpreted to support a new narrative of a separate “Kosovar.”
This may also cause a shift in historical narratives, minimizing the impact and contribution of Albania to Albanian national issues, thus creating a sense of loss of shared tradition and connection.
The loss of national unity and regional cooperation:
One of the most serious consequences is the loss of national unity. The process of creating a separate Kosovar identity — distinct from the Albanian one — could lead to a deep rift between groups, weakening the sense of community and national solidarity. This would harm the possibility of building close and effective cooperation between Kosovo and Albania. Instead of working together to preserve and develop a shared national identity and help one another in political and economic matters, the separation of identity could reduce the chances for joint integration efforts and for strengthening the Albanian position in the region and in the world.
At the regional level, cultural and identity division could create opportunities for external influences that seek to undermine Albanian unity to achieve political and strategic objectives. This would make it harder for Kosovo and Albania to present themselves as a united bloc on major issues like integration into the European Union and other international organizations.
The struggle for identity and alignment with international policies (continued):
Another aspect of the risk of “planned de-nationalization” is the identity struggle. As Kosovo tries to affirm itself as an independent state and protect its integrity, cultural and identity divisions may complicate efforts to find a stable identity that everyone can embrace. In this context, international influences are enormous, putting pressure on Kosovo’s government and policies to maintain a stance independent from Albania. This may lead to an attempt to align more closely with international policies, to integrate faster into organizations like NATO, the United Nations, and the European Union — but this may come at the cost of close ties with Albania, which has often been seen as a strong supporter of Kosovo’s aspirations.
The risk of losing international support (continued):
Another consequence could be the loss of international support, both diplomatically and in terms of economic development. Albania has strongly supported Kosovo’s independence, and if significant changes occur in Kosovo’s national identity, this may damage diplomatic relations and lead some countries to lose trust in Kosovo’s sincerity and its goals for international cooperation and sustainable development.
“Planned De-nationalization” and Its Impact on National Identity
“Planned de-nationalization” is a process that has significant consequences for the Albanian national identity, for the cooperation between Albania and Kosovo, and for Kosovo’s international position. Its consequences may affect not only the relations between the two Albanian states, but could also create a new reality that weakens the strength and influence of the Albanian nation on both regional and global levels.
The Role of Elites and Media in Constructing the New Identity
Political elites and the media play a key role in shaping and disseminating new identities within a society, contributing to the support and consolidation of specific narratives that reflect various interests, state policies, and international agendas. In the case of Kosovo, elites and the media have contributed to the construction of a new, distinct identity separate from the Albanian identity, often taking the form of the “Kosovar” – an identity that supports the consolidation of Kosovar statehood but also creates divisions and uncertainty regarding Kosovo’s connection to the Albanian national identity.
Political Elites and Motivations Behind the New Identity
Political elites in Kosovo, often motivated by external interests or pragmatic calculations, have been part of efforts to create and affirm a distinct Kosovar identity. This identity is frequently seen as a key element in consolidating Kosovo’s statehood following its declaration of independence, strengthening the new state’s international position, and securing broader recognition from other nations.
In this context, elites have embraced a new terminology that helps separate Kosovo from Albania and establish an independent and distinguishable identity, as a way to position Kosovo as an autonomous actor on the international stage. However, this process has also led to tensions and cultural and national dilemmas, as it has contributed to fragmenting the Albanian community, which has been deeply bound by shared history and culture.
Media and the Normalization of the New Identity
The media has played a significant role in promoting and consolidating this new identity, giving space to ideas and discourses that emphasize a special connection to the state of Kosovo and fulfill the need for a new national narrative. The media have contributed to the normalization of terminological shifts, regularly using terms such as “Kosovar” and directing public opinion toward stronger identification with the Kosovar state rather than with a shared Albanian identity.
Through propaganda and the dissemination of these narratives, the media have shaped a new reality for many Kosovars—especially among the youth—who increasingly identify as “Kosovars” without fully understanding the implications and consequences this separation might have on their national identity and their ties with Albanians in Albania and the diaspora.
School Textbooks and Institutional Discourse
Another key area influenced by elites and media is education and school materials. Schools, as institutions that play a fundamental role in shaping the collective consciousness of younger generations, have had a direct impact on the identity formation of Kosovo’s youth. School textbooks have often presented a version of history and culture that focuses on the formation of the state of Kosovo and the Kosovar identity, while reducing or overlooking the links to Albanian history and culture. This has been done in an effort to create a distinct and clear Kosovar identity, positioning Kosovo on a separate path, away from Albanian influences.
Institutional discourse has supported the spread of these ideas, using tools such as public campaigns and state policies to emphasize a new and independent identity for Kosovo. This discourse has also encouraged the daily use of terms like “Kosovar” and helped create a new historical narrative that presents Kosovo as a distinct cultural and national unit, with its own history and heritage different from Albania’s.
Findings from the Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung Study (2020)
According to the Friedrich-Ebert-Stiftung study (2020), a considerable percentage of young people in Kosovo often self-identify as “Kosovars,” a phenomenon that is increasingly gaining ground. This trend is concerning to some, as many youth are not fully aware of the ideological consequences that such a choice may carry. Without a deep understanding of their history and identity, they may lose connection with a broader national heritage, reducing their identity to a narrow concept that could weaken their bonds with other Albanians—not only in Albania but also in the region.
This phenomenon may create opposition and social tensions between Kosovar and Albanian youth, as the former may no longer feel part of a shared nation, but rather as distinct individuals, in a way that could affect feelings of solidarity and cooperation between the two Albanian states.
The role of political elites and media in constructing a new Kosovar identity is crucial to understanding how national identities shift and develop in the aftermath of major historical changes, such as Kosovo’s declaration of independence. This process has had significant consequences for the cultural and national ties among Albanians, creating deep divisions between Kosovars and Albanians from Albania, but also leading to the formation of a new identity with lasting implications for Kosovo’s future and its relationship with the wider Albanian world.
Philosophical and Sociological Approach: Identity as Simulacrum
One of the most important aspects of identity construction in a society is the way this identity is built and expressed through cultural and sociological constructs. In the context of Kosovo, the identity promoted as “Kosovar” can be viewed as an example of a simulacrum, a concept deeply tied to the theories of well-known philosophers such as Jean Baudrillard and Martin Heidegger, who discussed how identities can inevitably become fabricated and manipulated constructs that transform reality into something transient and unstable.
- Baudrillard: The Simulacrum That Replaces Reality
Jean Baudrillard, one of the most influential postmodern philosophers, developed the theory of simulacra—a powerful concept for understanding how reality and identity often become products of consumption and manipulation. According to him, the simulacrum is an artificial version of reality that has no direct connection to the original, but instead represents an image of itself, a projection that breaks away from truth.
In the context of the “Kosovar” identity, it can be argued that this artificially created identity is a form of simulacrum. Rather than representing a deep, historical, and cultural identity like the Albanian one, “Kosovarism” presents a manipulated and adapted version of identity, shaped to fit the political needs and interests of a specific historical period.
In this sense, the Kosovar identity can be seen as a “simulacrum” that has replaced the authentic Albanian identity, offering a new form of identification that lacks a direct connection to the historical and national roots of Albanians, but that has been constructed according to the logic and interests of the Kosovar state and international influences. This process of constructing identity as a simulacrum is a way of creating a new narrative aimed at shaping a reality that. In this context, the Kosovar identity, as a construction serving a specific political interest, presents a challenge to the authenticity of the Albanian national identity, which has been shaped and formed through shared history, culture, and struggles. The separation from this identity, and the promotion of a distinct Kosovar identity, can be seen as a crisis of authenticity—a loss of connection with the past and with the culture that allows individuals to understand themselves in an authentic way.
In Heideggerian philosophy, this is a kind of “slippage” from authentic existence, where individuals in Kosovo, by identifying as Kosovars and distancing themselves from their Albanian identity, are acting according to imposed models rather than their true and profound being. This phenomenon can be described as a “fall” into manipulated existence, where individuals lose contact with their cultural and national roots, living in a fabricated reality alien to their authentic identity.
The Kosovar identity can also be seen as an example of Baudrillard’s concept of the simulacrum—a construction that has replaced the authentic Albanian identity, creating a new and manipulated reality detached from its origins. At the same time, this process represents a fall from authentic existence in Heidegger’s sense, where the people of Kosovo lose their connection with their true identity and ignore the richness of culture and history that has shaped them as individuals and as part of a broader nation. This is a fundamental philosophical and sociological issue for understanding the impact of identity fragmentation and for reflecting on the future of Kosovo and its relationship with other Albanians.
Social Engineering and Ideological Colonialism
In analyzing the formation of the Kosovar identity and how it has been used to divide and manage the population, a clear parallel can be drawn with colonial practices of divide and rule. Colonialism often employed social engineering to create and impose new identities, aiming to control and manage various ethnic and cultural groups. This practice revealed a controlled and manipulated structure, where the indigenous population was often subject to imposed divisions and changes that served the colonizers’ interests.
Colonialism and Identity Fragmentation
One of the main methods for ensuring colonial control was the reshaping of the identities of dominated groups. Colonizers frequently created distinct groups within indigenous populations to minimize the possibility of unity and organized resistance. This process of creating separate groups, aided by artificial narratives, was intended to form a simplified and manageable structure. These new identities often involved ethnographic differentiation and territorialization, helping to control individuals and communities by making them more suitable for domination.
In this context, the Kosovar identity can be seen as a product of division similar to colonial practices. The use of this term has helped to create a new separation between the Albanians of Kosovo and those of Albania, severing historical and cultural ties and producing an artificial division that can be used to more easily manage individuals and specific groups within Kosovar society.
Social Engineering and the Creation of New Identities
Another important component of colonialism was social engineering, which used policies and ideologies to create new identities aligned with the colonizers’ needs and interests. Through changes in education, media, and administration, colonizers could form a new identity structure that was useful for their political and economic goals. This process represents a form of projected identity creation, not necessarily connected to the real history or culture of the native population.
In the case of Kosovo, this process has revealed a shift in identity dynamics, with priority given to separating Kosovo as a distinct entity. Kosovarism, as a new ideological and political construction, can be seen as a form of social engineering aimed at changing perceptions of national identity by detaching it from the broader Albanian belonging and placing it within a narrower and more manageable framework. This kind of identity construction was designed to support an imposed political and territorial reality aimed at helping to establish an independent and internationally recognized state.
Consequences of Ideological Colonialism in Kosovar Society
Regarding the consequences of ideological colonialism for Kosovar identity, it is evident that this process has had deep social and psychological effects. While some individuals and social groups may view the Kosovar identity as an opportunity to affirm Kosovo’s independence and political subjectivity, for many others this shift can generate an internal fragmentation that disregards deep historical, cultural, and linguistic ties with Albania and other Albanians.
This identity division has significant social consequences, creating differences and rifts within society and increasing efforts to maintain separation in knowledge, history, and culture—elements that form a vital part of Albanian identity as a whole. In many cases, this process has intensified feelings of loss and isolation, generating a layer within Kosovar society that attempts to reconnect with lost ties and often experiences a sense of detachment from their true and historically grounded identity.
Conclusion: Ideological Colonialism and Social Engineering in Identity Formation
Social engineering and ideological colonialism have played an important role in the creation of new identities, such as the Kosovar identity. This process is a form of ideological division and control, used to manage society and to create a new reality serving specific political purposes. Despite efforts to affirm Kosovo’s independent identity, this phenomenon has deep and lasting consequences for Kosovar society and the ways individuals and groups perceive and experience their connections to the past, to culture, and to other nations.
The Way Forward: Narrative Unity and the Consolidation of National Identity
Faced with the risk of fragmenting the Albanian national identity, it is essential to reaffirm Albanian identity as a historical, cultural, and ethnic whole encompassing all Albanian territories. This process requires a narrative unification that views Albanians—from Albania to Kosovo and other regions where they live—as an indivisible entity. All parts of the nation must be included in a shared narrative, which serves as the foundation for consolidating a strong and stable identity. This is a need that transcends territorial boundaries and helps establish a deep, strong, and enduring bond among Albanians.
Reaffirming the Common Identity
To protect the unity of the Albanian nation and to strengthen ties among Albanians across all territories, it is essential to reaffirm Albanian identity as a unified entity, without fragmenting it into separate parts as attempted through terms such as “Kosovar.” This reaffirmation must include not only political dimensions but also historical, cultural, and ethnic ones, emphasizing the shared values and roots that bind this people as a whole. Albanian identity must be seen as a shared history of suffering, sacrifice, and struggle for freedom and independence, encompassing all Albanian territories without excluding anyone.
.. which are part of the Albanian identity, as well as shared scientific and philosophical knowledge that emphasize this common national sentiment.
- Pluralism and Respect for Diversity
However, the reaffirmation of Albanian identity does not imply a homogenization of cultures and traditions within the nation. Pluralism is a natural part of any unified nation and, in this case, should be seen as a positive value that does not undermine but rather strengthens the common identity. Cultural and ethnic diversities within Albania, Kosovo, and other Albanian regions should be respected and valued. This pluralism can be enriched by various traditional and modern knowledge, but always within the framework of a deep unity called “Albanian identity.”
- Rejection of Artificial Divisions
One of the greatest threats to the Albanian identity is the artificial division arising from external strategies and foreign interests. The term “Kosovar” is one of the clearest expressions of this process. This division not only endangers the unity of the Albanian identity but also undermines the strong ties Albanians have with one another, making them feel isolated and divided. To preserve and strengthen this shared identity, it is essential to reject any attempt to separate Albanians into different groups based on territories or ethnic distinctions.
- Efforts Toward Regional and International Unification
Beyond the reaffirmation of Albanian identity at the national level, efforts must be promoted for regional unification and international support to consolidate a common Albanian platform that defends the interests of all Albanians, regardless of their place of residence. This includes not only efforts to deepen Kosovo’s integration into international structures but also to strengthen cooperation between Albanian states and create sustainable economic, political, and cultural cohesion that serves all Albanians.
The path forward for consolidating the Albanian identity is closely tied to a unified narrative, the reaffirmation of historical and cultural ties, and the rejection of artificial divisions that seek to create detachment among Albanians. This unity would enable Albanians, regardless of where they live, to form a strong and sustainable national entity, ensuring a safer and more prosperous future for the generations to come.
Furthermore, an educational environment must be built that promotes dialogue and international cooperation to help preserve identity and strengthen ties among Albanians across all territories.
Another key component is the dissemination of Albanian literature and history, which is a powerful tool for mutual recognition of the past and future. In this regard, the promotion of Albanian artistic and cultural creativity should be part of every national and international strategy that seeks to strengthen Albanian unity.
- Culture as an Expression of National Identity
Culture is one of the most powerful instruments for building and preserving national identity. For Albanians, shared cultural heritage is a powerful source that can connect not only individuals and different groups within each Albanian nation but can also serve as a bridge between the diaspora and those living in the traditional homelands. Through art, music, literature, and traditions, culture can offer a shared platform for expressing different experiences and viewpoints, giving each Albanian the opportunity to contribute to building a strong and broad identity integrated within a single nation.
In this context, it is essential to promote Albanian cultural values in all possible forms, including cultural events, festivals, exhibitions, and international activities that can serve as meeting points for Albanians from all territories.
- Strengthening Democracy and National Institutions
A strong and sustainable identity also requires the strengthening of democratic institutions and the justice system, which are essential for protecting the rights of individuals and groups within a nation. Democracy and the rule of law are strong foundations for building a society where every Albanian, regardless of where they live, can enjoy full rights and contribute to strengthening the unity of the nation. Strong and independent institutions are necessary to enable Albanians from all regions to live in a stable and just environment.
Theories of Division
Theory of Fragmentation of National Identity
One of the main theories against the term “Kosovar” is that it has the potential to create a division of the Albanian national identity, splitting it into two groups: Albanians from Kosovo and Albanians from Albania (and other Albanian regions). This could lead to the fragmentation of national belonging and the creation of a politically convenient identity that would alter the perception of a single and indivisible nation, disrupting the historical and cultural connections between Albanians across all regions.
Theory of Ideological Manipulation
According to another theory, the use of the term “Kosovar” is an ideological and political strategy to separate Kosovo from its Albanian national traditions and roots. This term may serve to create a distinct identity separated from the other Albanian peoples, aiming to build an independent state that relies on a divided identity to further justify the partition of Albanian territories. This could have long-term consequences for national unity and the shared future of Albanians.
Theory of National Authenticity
Another critique of the term “Kosovar” relates to the idea of the authenticity of the Albanian nation. According to this theory, the use of the term “Kosovar” is an attempt to create an identity that is not authentic for Albanians but is constructed by external factors. In contrast, Albanian identity should be grounded in a historical and cultural heritage that includes all Albanian territories and reflects a shared sense of identity and nationhood that goes beyond state borders.
Theory of Replacement of Reality (Simulacrum)
According to a theory by Jean Baudrillard, the term “Kosovar” can be seen as a “simulacrum,” where a newly and artificially created identity replaces the reality of an authentic and natural identity. This is a form of reality manipulation, where natural and historical divisions—such as those that unite Albanians across all territories—are replaced by a new idea constructed for ideological and political purposes. This process could lead to the loss of natural ties among Albanians and the creation of an identity that is more an ideological construct than a reflection of their history and culture.
Theory of Ideological Colonization
At another level, the use of the term “Kosovar” can be seen as a form of ideological colonization, where a foreign group or external forces (such as international powers) help to create an identity that is not in harmony with the nature of the Albanian identity. This process can be compared to colonial practices of imposing new identities on conquered peoples, where an external and imposed identity replaces the natural and historical identity of the subjugated people. The Theory of Cultural and Psychological Division
Another strong criticism is that the division of Albanians into “Kosovars” and “Albanians” may lead to cultural and psychological fragmentation. This term can influence the formation of a different mindset between the people of Kosovo and those of Albania, creating social, cultural, and psychological barriers that are artificial and unreasonable in light of the deep historical and cultural ties that exist among Albanians across all regions.
These theories against the use of the term “Kosovar” often aim to preserve and consolidate a unified national identity that includes all Albanians, without the division and fragmentation that the use of such a term might bring.
Conclusion: The Term “Kosovar” as a Serbian Colonial Theory Against Albania
The term “Kosovar,” in its post-war constructed meaning, can be seen as an ideological and colonial strategy influenced by political and Serbian factors, aimed at dividing the Albanian identity and creating a new narrative that excludes Albania and its historical and cultural ties with Kosovo. This ideology of division has aimed to create a distinct and independent identity for Kosovars, which would later be used to justify the creation of an independent state—often seen as a foreign and imposed project designed to fragment the Albanian nation.
In this context, the term “Kosovar” can be viewed as a Serbian colonial theory intended to detach Kosovo from Albania, placing it on a “separate map” and creating an externally constructed identity that contains elements foreign to the reality of the Albanian nation. This term has been used to minimize the historical, cultural, and ethnic ties between Albanians in Kosovo and Albania and to create a psychological barrier that would weaken national unity.
Furthermore, this concept is similar to colonial practices of imposing new identities on subjugated peoples, where an external power attempts to create a manipulable and submissive identity in order to justify political division and dominance. This process has had severe consequences in forming a fragmented and weakened national consciousness, which may negatively affect the preservation of a common future for Albanians, as well as divide the Albanian territories and efforts toward unification.
In the end, the term “Kosovar” can be treated as a fully ideological and colonial tool, used to implement a political project aimed at detaching Kosovo from Albania by creating a new identity that ignores the deep and inseparable historical and cultural ties of Albanians throughout their territories.
