Ethnic Identity & Peacebuilding in the Balkans
Connect to Community
Join us in the Balkans for an immersive exploration of ethnic identity, peacebuilding, and reconciliation that combines community engagement, cultural immersion, and global learning. Learn alongside local organizations, community leaders, and people whose experiences provide insight into the region’s complex history and evolving identities. Explore how communities navigate conflict, memory, identity, and reconciliation while experiencing the cultures and perspectives that make the Balkans unique.
About the Program
Partnered with Utah State University, this program focuses on understanding the complex history of the Balkan region, with a special emphasis on the collapse of Yugoslavia, the Balkan conflict, and the ongoing peacebuilding and reconciliation efforts. Participants will engage with local nonprofits, visit historical sites, and attend lectures on governance, conflict resolution, and international peace initiatives in Serbia, Bosnia, and Croatia. Through immersive learning experiences in cities such as Belgrade, Sarajevo, and Dubrovnik, students will gain insights into the region’s political and social dynamics.
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Participants can apply as a student to earn college credit at Utah State University, or can participate without earning college credit.
Program Leaders
Learn alongside experienced faculty and international program leaders who will help you navigate the complex histories, identities, and perspectives you encounter throughout the Balkans. Your leadership team will connect academic learning with conversations, site visits, and community experiences while creating space for thoughtful reflection and a deeper understanding of ethnic identity, conflict, peacebuilding, and reconciliation.
Faculty Leader
Austin Knuppe
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Youthlinc Leader
Justin Powell
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Director of RootEd Global
Jessica Hardiman
