What does the identity politics problems in the regional relations of the Republic of Serbia tell us about the European integration process of this country?

Abstract: The Western Balkans have been gripped by turbulent policies and relations in the region for the past 25 years. The Republic of Serbia, as a country responsible for many of the armed conflicts of the 1990s, is today a country that is largely conducting accession negotiations with the European Union towards membership. However, what is being questioned is what are the relations of that country with its neighbors today? Are there problems of identity politics in regional relations and what can they say about the integration process of Serbia into the EU? By dual application of theories of social constructivism and neoliberalism, this thesis conceptually determines both the diagnosis of regional problems and possible solutions. Also, by applying qualitative content analysis, the research was provided in understanding the context of qualitative data in order to make the most effective connection with the theoretical concepts. Overall, the research reveals that identity problems are still of the major factors of instability in relations between Serbia and neighboring countries and the narrative is still identity based. Also, what the research showed as a possible solution to accelerate EU integration and stabilize regional relations reflected in neoliberal institutionalization within the Open Balkan initiative.