Research groups
Four research groups will explore the roles of different types of stakeholders in managing memories of disputed territories:
Civil society groups and NGOs
The role of civil society groups and non-governmental organisations (NGOs) in managing memories of disputed territories
Led by Dr Harutyun Marutyan of the National Academy of Sciences (Armenia).
Background
In recent decades civil society groups have challenged dominant representations of the national community and established alternative commemorative practices. New translocal and transnational grassroots practices of memory and commemoration, relying on both social interaction and digital media, have allowed traumatic memories to become open to engagement and active negotiation. In parallel with this development, ‘histories from below’ (those based on the experiences of ordinary people) are now increasingly perceived to be just as important as official or mainstream histories.
The demands of various groups for recognition of their memory and history, and for reparation for past wrongdoings, have not called into question the legitimacy of the nation-state in Europe and elsewhere, provided that these groups and their demands are not linked to territory. There is an important difference, however, in the case of sub-state territorial identities. When a group identity is linked to territory there is more at stake for national sovereignty. If group identities are territorial, conflict can lead to the dissolution of the state, not least in Europe, as in Yugoslavia or in Czechoslovakia. The ultimate tussle is over the control of territory, with each side exhibiting contrasting expressions of territoriality. However, such a struggle is also over collective memory, and the dominant mode of remembering is antagonistic. Issues of memory become a terrain for conflict between socio-political groups and can silence minority voices. In short, encounters with the ‘other’ can lead to social and cultural practices which range from reinforcing national stereotypes and mental boundaries to promoting multi-cultural and post-national imaginings.
Research scope & focus
This research group will examine the social and communication practices adopted by a variety of civil society practitioners on both sides of the borders studied, as well as among diasporic communities. It will explore how these practitioners can bring people together across physical, mental and emotional borders to allow for multiple perspectives on past conflict. In particular, the active role of women and young generations in changing identity codes will be explored.
Researchers will analyse the strategies used by NGOs and civil society groups to engage productively with tensions over disputed territory. The analysis will draw on specific projects created and implemented by such organisations, and researchers will engage with users of these projects to better understand their potential positive effects.
The group will also analyse how civil society organisations and NGOs engage with various national and international bodies (including governments, regional organisations, international organisations, foreign NGOs and charities) to make their work possible, highlighting both the potential compromises and negotiations this may entail.
Civil society groups and NGOs / Cultural practitioners / Nation states / Regional organisations