This book critically examines debates and projects advocating federal, confederal, and cooperative solutions in the Balkans and East-Central Europe from the 19th century to the present. It counters the powder keg narrative by showcasing historical integration plans, from Austria-Hungary's reforms to Yugoslavism and EU initiatives. Contributions analyze intellectual and political efforts to mitigate nationalism, emphasizing the region's potential for peaceful coexistence. The volume bridges gaps in historical knowledge, appealing to scholars and general readers interested in alternative transnational developments. Its content is the result of a senior-junior teamwork from MIREES, a Joint MA program of the Universities of Bologna, V.M. Kaunas, and Zagreb.

Autorentext

Dr. Stefano Bianchini , retired professor (University of Bologna), is an expert on Balkan and East European history. He has authored/edited 40 books, advised the ICTY, and held leadership roles in academic networks like Uniadrion. He managed a broad number of EU and Italian transnational projects, mainly focused on the Balkans, the Baltic area, and the Kaliningrad region, including the Masters ERMA on human rights in Sarajevo and MIREES, the MA joint degree of the Universities of Bologna, V.M. Kaunas, and Zagreb. From 2015 to 2021, he served as Rector's delegate for relations with Eastern Europe. His latest book is Liquid Nationalism and State Partitions in Europe , Edward Elgar, 2017.