Balkan Identity in the Perspective of the Phenomenon of Migration – An Attempt at Analysis

Abstract

The identity of the Balkans is a phenomenon difficult to diagnose due to its hybrid nature conditioned by many factors (history, tradition, language, religion, geographical location). In the context of migration movements and their intensification after 2015, the so-called the Balkan route has become an area of interest for both scientists and political actors seeking to increase the effectiveness of the migration policy. In the narrative of some political actors (especially neonational ones), an argument appeared about the civilization threat that migration movements pose to destination and transit countries. Therefore, an attempt was made to analyse this threat, starting with determining the features of the Balkan identity, and above all its strength or dispersion. The obtained answers to the research questions make it possible to formulate a thesis about a slight degree of changes that may occur in the identity of the region under the influence of migration. High cultural diversity minimizes the influence of the environment on the multi-layer identity.