Ethnoreligious Nationalism and Disinformation Systems: A Comparative Analysis of Identity and Memory in the Bosnian and Ukrainian Wars

Understanding major historical events often provides novel insights into current conflicts. More specifically, analyzing international disputes through the lens of identity, memory, and narrative systems creates a basis for comprehending the power of collective thought in large political systems. The Bosnian and Ukrainian Wars are unique case studies that show the interrelated nature of memory and identity politics. This thesis seeks to identify disinformation systems within these conflicts that contribute to a pan-Slavic identity. Additionally, it will show the connection between the Bosnian and Ukrainian Wars in its programming, narrative-building techniques, and use of identity as a basis for strength. Understanding how identity is formed under certain political atmospheres is essential because it strengthens our ideas of individual thought within community identities. Throughout this thesis a literature review will show the array of identity, memory, and misinformation studies, thus pointing to future research areas.