The invisible minorities of the Balkans: Challenges and prospects

This panel explores the situation of minorities in the Balkans through the discussion of the Alevis and Bektashis. Comprising a ‘double minority,’ Alevis and Bektashis, are commonly mis-categorised or made invisible through their articulation as part of the Muslim minority communities. In recent years, partly in response to changing political circumstances, increasing conflict and sectarianism, Alevis and Bektashis have started to mobilise to break-out of their marginalised status, and are having to navigate their complex national contexts, transnational linkages, and geopolitical pressures. The panellists will discuss their current status and struggle for visibility and recognition, raising questions for the minority regimes across the Balkans.

Chair: Ceren Lord ((DPIR, Oxford)