Why Albanians Identify as Kosovo Nationals Rather Than Serbs
Why Albanians Identify as Kosovo Nationals Rather Than Serbs
Albanian identity and Kosovo's history are deeply intertwined with the recent past and the ongoing geopolitical dynamics of the region. The basis for this identity and why many Albanians in Kosovo identify as such rather than as Serbs is multifaceted and rooted in historical, cultural, and political reasons.
Historical Context and Ethnic Identity
Albanians are an ancient ethnic group who have lived in the Balkan region for thousands of years, with a continuous presence that predates the creation of modern states like Serbia. Kosovo, in particular, has been part of the Albanian narrative for centuries, with a significant Albanian population.
The identity of Albanians is more than just a geographical or cultural attachment; it is a deep-seated connection to a homeland and a historical narrative. For Albanians, ethnicity and national identity are intrinsically linked, often more so than citizenship or current political status.
Geopolitical Influence and Independent Identity
The creation of modern nation-states in the Balkans is relatively recent, and Serbia, as a nation, is an artificial construct that was only fully realized in the 19th century. This artificiality is evident in the diverse demographic and linguistic landscape within Serbia, which includes a significant Albanian-speaking population.
Albanians in Kosovo speak Albanian and have a distinct cultural identity that predates Serbian rule. This cultural and linguistic heritage sets them apart from the Serbs, who have been largely assimilated into a dialect derived from Old Church Slavonic. For many Albanians, this means maintaining a sense of independence and distinct identity rather than adopting a Serbian one.
Modern Political Developments and Support for Western Allies
The Albanian community in Kosovo views Serbia and Russia with suspicion, partly due to historical and recent events. The support given by Russia during the 1998-1999 war against Kosovo Albanians, which included committing genocidal acts, has further strained relations. Many Albanians see this as a betrayal and a reminder of the potential dangers of political manipulation.
Moreover, the Albanian population in Kosovo is pro-West and pro-American, aligning with Western norms and policies. This stance is reflected in their digital presence, where many Kosovo websites use the .al TLD instead of the Serbian .rs. They prefer to use domain names like .xk, .ks, or .rks, referring to Kosovo, to emphasize their national identity. The fact that many still append -kx- to their URLs signifies a continued desire for recognition as a separate nation.
Cultural and Historical Significance
During the time when the Ottoman Empire was losing control over the Balkans, Albania sought independence and was slowly becoming a nation with its own territory. However, Serbia, backed by Russia, exerted more influence and managed to gain control over Kosovo, an area that should have gone to Albania if not for their weakened state during that period.
The hope was always for Albania to become a single nation that included both present-day Albania and most of Kosovo. This historical context, combined with the desire for cultural and political autonomy, strengthened the Albanian identity and sense of belonging to Kosovo.
Independence and Modern Developments
Since the 1990s and the break-up of Yugoslavia, Kosovo's quest for independence has been a significant factor in the identity of Albanians living there. Kosovo's successful pursuit of independence has marked a significant shift in their sense of national identity.
The development of Albania in recent years is another factor in this identity. After 25 years of growth and modernization, Albania has transformed from a struggling nation to a more prosperous one. The journey from having nothing to being a modern state is a testament to their resilience and determination to forge a new identity.
Today, while many Albanians in Kosovo hold Albanian citizenship, their identity remains strongly tied to their historic and cultural roots in Kosovo, which is a mixture of pride, resistance, and the ongoing pursuit of their own national narrative.
Conclusion
Albanians who identify as Kosovo nationals do so because of a deep connection to their historical and cultural heritage. Their resistance to Serbian assimilation, combined with the geopolitical and political shifts in the region, have solidified this identity. The ongoing efforts towards independence and the allure of Western support have further reinforced their national identity, making Kosovo an integral part of their cultural and political self.