Europeanization and Secessionist Conflicts: Concepts and Theories / Chapter 1 of Europeanization and Conflict Resolution: Case Studies from the European Periphery

Abstract

This chapter explores the potential of the EU to bring about conflict settlement and conflict resolution in the divided states on its periphery through its multi-level framework and capacity for foreign policy action. A third level of governance provides new institutional options for conflict settlement and creates new incentives that may lead to a redefinition of the interests and identities of the parties involved in a secessionist conflict. Europeanization is defined as a process which is activated and encouraged by European institutions, primarily the European Union, by linking the final outcome of the conflict to a certain degree of integration of the parties involved in it into European structures. The Europeanization mechanisms of conditionality and socialization aimed at conflict settlement may have unintended effects which can undermine the objective of conflict resolution.

Keywords

• European Union
• conflict resolution
• governance
• secessionist conflict
• Europeanization
• conditionality