Nationalism and the Political Use and Abuse of Religion: the Politicization of Orthodoxy, Catholicism and Islam in Yugoslav Successor States

Abstract

Religion has been a historical force in Balkan societies. It has defined social identities and has been used as a basis for national myths. Hierarchies of the Orthodox, Catholic and the Muslim communities in Serbia, Croatia, Slovenia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Macedonia and among the Albanians have deliberately contributed to these myths, thereby acquiring a particular reputation. Religious beliefs have been superimposed on new ethno-national projects. Religious activists and church officials have joined battle for the de-secularization of society. The politicization of religion has been followed by the confessionalization of public life, guaranteeing privileges for the dominant denomination.