Cultural Policy Amidst Disputed Memory: Cultural Sector Impacts in Kosovo and Nagorno-Karabakh

Abstract

The cultural heritage sector's role in ethnic conflict is a direct reflection of the official narrative i tis trying to convey. The challenges these sectors face under various challenges are a topic of academic discussion as it relates to various other theoretical aspects. Previous research has indicated themes of antagonism, primordialism, and perennialism within national narratives surrounding ethnci conflict and territorial disputes. The international response has been varied in these situations and intercultural dialogu eis largely fascilitated by outside organisations. This thesis examines primary and secondary sources relating to the conflicts in Nagorno Karabakh and Kosovo. Examples are presented reflecting the cultural heritage landscape in both cases. Nagorno Karabakh and Kosovo are then compared and assesed for similairites and differences. This thesis found that the cultural heritage sector in both regions were similair in terms of context, myths, and antagonistic commemorations, but differeed regarding jurisdiction and application.