Ask MetaFilter questions tagged with Kosovo

Volunteer work in Kosovo

Grimble — Thu, 19 Feb 2009 17:39:44 -0800

I'm a law student, and I might have the opportunity to work, on a volunteer basis, for a political development program in Kosovo this summer. Is there anything I should be worried about? I find the work I would be doing absolutely fascinating, and I would be located in Pristina. Everything is organized through the law school and the selection process is quite rigorous, so there is no doubt that this is a fabulous opportunity. My parents, however, while recognizing how amazing this would be, aren't exactly thrilled. My father, who spent time in Kosovo, is quite worried about possible safety issues, especially since I'm a woman. I'm wondering whether someone who's from Kosovo, or has worked/traveled there can either shatter or substantiate those concerns and share any personal experiences. This is much appreciated!

How do Kosovar Albanians differ from Albanians in Albania?

jason's_planet — Wed, 30 Jul 2008 11:26:01 -0800

How do Kosovar Albanians differ from Albanians in Albania? Kosovar Albanians and Albanians in Albania proper share a nationality but their historical experiences seem so different that I wonder if the division has produced cultural differences between the two. The historical analogy that comes to mind is that of Germany, where the Iron Curtain produced distinct “Ossi” and “Wessi” identities which persisted even after reunification

So, how are Kosovar Albanians different from Albanians in Albania? Do they speak a different dialect of Albanian? Do they speak with a distinct accent? How did their experiences under Yugoslav Communism affect them culturally? And how do the two groups view each other?

Many thanks in advance.

Why is the US so desirous of independence for Kosovo?

Dee Xtrovert — Thu, 19 Jul 2007 14:09:15 -0800

Why is the US so desirous of independence for Kosovo? I'm not against Kosovan indepence (in fact, I rather like the idea), but in my rather cynical view of American motivations, I just don't see what's in it for the USA. Many of the Albanians from Albania don't like the Albanians from Kosovo (for complicated but heavy reasons) and pleasing Albania wouldn't seem worth much. "Punishment" for Serbian war crimes has some personal appeal for me (refusal to hand over war criminals, plus support from the Serbian government being largely responsible for the brutal death of most of my family), but that hardly seems it. Russia will be pissed off (they are already, just from the suggestion of it) and there wouldn't seem to be much in terms of exportable wealth from Kosovo. I've spent time in Kosovo and I just don't get it. But Condie Rice is out there, trying to make it happen, apparently. Why?