The relationship between hope and societal stability in Kosovo

Dashed hope leads to potentially destabilising anger. I highlight examples of the link between dashed hope and anger/unrest in Kosovo, before focusing on the post-independence period. The hopes raised following the 2008 declaration of independence were subsequently dashed leading to despondency and anger. Anger was manifested, however, in a primarily constructive way resulting in increased support for Vetëvendosje. The international community's approach towards Kosovo, however, restricts Vetëvendosje's capacity to realise people's hopes. If Vetëvendosje is unable to realise people's hopes, this will likely precipitate “hopeless anger” and support for illiberal/violent movements with ominous implications for stability in Kosovo and the region.