Name and Surname
Kriton Kuci
Affiliation
MEDITERRANEAN UNIVERSITY OF ALBANIA
E-mail Address
kritonkuci@umsh.edu.al
Short Biography
Kriton Kuci has completed his PhD studies in Balkan Studies at the Department of Balkan, Slavic and Oriental Studies, School of Economic and Regional Studies, University of Macedonia, Thessaloniki, Greece. His PhD dissertation is entitled “Flagging Albanianism. Banal nationalism in news on line portals in Albania”. He is a MA graduate of International and European Studies at the School of Economics, Business and International Studies, University of Piraeus, Greece. He has a BA Degree in Political Science and Public Administration from the School of Law, Economics and Political Science of the University of Athens, Greece.
He is Lecturer of Political Science at the Mediterranean University of Albania. He has participated in various scientific conferences in Greece, Albania, Serbia, Italy, Austria, Romania, Bulgaria, Montenegro, Bosnia and Herzegovina, etc., and has published several scientific articles in international scientific journals. His research interests include nationalism studies, discourse analysis, political systems, political theory, international relations theories, etc. He is fluent in Albanian, Greek, Italian and English.
Research Abstract
Redefining Tourism Narratives: Navigating Beyond Banal Nationalism in Southeast Europe
This research aims to investigate the intricate relationship between banal nationalism, tourism (focusing on the phenomenon of the so called “patriotic tourism”, a term so used and liked in Albania where is common sense to name “our” nationalism as “patriotism”), and their impact on national identities, stereotypes, and societal relations in Southeast Europe. This study aims to delve into the ways in which banal nationalism manifests in the tourism industry, drawing attention to the symbolic representations, narratives, and practices that perpetuate nationalistic sentiments. It will examine how patriotic tourism, often fueled by political agendas and historical narratives, reinforces existing national identities and deepens societal divisions. In the case of Southeast Europe, a region historically marked by ethnic and political tensions, this study will analyze the implications of these dynamics on inter-societal relations.
Moreover, the study advocates for alternative models of tourism that promote a culture of shared futures over nationalist divisions. It explores innovative approaches that prioritize cross-cultural understanding, dialogue, and collaboration. Drawing inspiration from emerging trends in responsible tourism, cultural exchange programs, and community-based tourism, the study proposes actionable strategies for fostering a more inclusive and interconnected future.