The Self and the Other in Public Diplomacy: The Shifting Discourses from the Perspective of Actors in Kosovo and the United States.

This paper examines the evolving dynamics of public diplomacy between Kosovo and the United States, a relationship historically marked by strong affection from Kosovo towards the US, particularly following the American-led NATO intervention in 1999, which played a pivotal role in Kosovo’s independence. Despite Kosovo being a secular state with a Muslim majority, it has maintained a generally positive view of the US, contrasting with the anti-American sentiments observed in many other Muslim-majority nations. However, recent shifts are evident as nationalist ideologies and extreme religious sentiments gain traction, fueled by misinformation from external factors such as Russia and China. This study investigates the implications of these changes on public perception and diplomatic relations, focusing on the interplay between nationalism and anti-American discourse, particularly on social media platforms. Through in-depth interviews and discourse analysis of official statements from both states, the research explores how each nation perceives the other, assessing potential concerns regarding the rise of nationalism in both Europe and the US. Overall, this paper contributes to understanding the delicate balance of international relations in the face of rising nationalism and evolving public perceptions, with implications for both Kosovo and its allies.