Rethinking Citizenship in Central and Eastern Europe - (Bristol Studies in Comparative and International Education) (Hardcover)

Book Synopsis

This book explores the diverse landscape of citizenship practices in Central and Eastern Europe, an area often overlooked in research.

Through an interdisciplinary lens, the contributors explore how education and political participation shape these practices in a region marked by historical and social complexities. The book offers fresh insights into how citizenship is perceived and practiced, highlighting the role of civic education in fostering political engagement.

By addressing both the challenges and opportunities of citizenship in this dynamic region, this volume contributes to broader debates on citizenship and democracy across Europe and beyond.

Review Quotes

"In 'Rethinking Citizenship in Central and Eastern Europe', Kolleck and Karolewski present an essential, interdisciplinary examination of citizenship practices. This work brilliantly explores the intricacies of civic education and political engagement, particularly among young people, in a continually changing region. Its comprehensive and insightful approach makes this volume an invaluable resource for scholars, activists, policymakers, and anyone interested in the evolving contours of citizenship in Europe." Antoni Verger, Autonomous University of Barcelona

"Nina Kolleck and Ireneusz Pawel Karolewski have curated a collection of case studies covering an under-examined area of Europe - Central and Eastern Europe - riddled with contentious histories and conflicts when negotiating identities. The chapters examine the different faces, tensions and expressions of conceptualizations of citizenship and civic education within nation-state borders and beyond, at the European Union level. The analyses carefully unfold negotiations of identities and inclusive practices between the governing nation-state and the wider European Union generate an exciting arena of discussions. The authors in this unique collection zoom in and out on issues and practices of voting, resistance, agency and empowerment. The debates and discussions take place at the complex and overlooked crossroads of violent histories, social justice and political economy of citizenship education. The collection of chapters reveal how dynamic, conflicting and even alive the philosophical dimensions of education amidst the ongoing evolution of citizenship." Bassel Akar, Notre Dame University

"In this book Nina Kolleck and Ireneusz Pawel Karolewski invite us to understand controversial citizenship policies and practices in an under-researched key area. These 13 chapters collectively take readers- scholars, students and policymakers - on a journey based on a multisciplinary perspecitve exploring citizenship and democracy in Central and Eastern Europe, emphasizing the role of education in shaping active participation." Massimiliano Tarozzi, University of Bologna

"Citizenship practices are drastically changing for youth in today's global world. This book helpfully provides a critical, comparative, and interdisciplinary set of perspectives to the dynamics affecting young people's citizenship beliefs and practices. The focus on regional dynamics in Central and Eastern provides readers with the opportunity to more deeply explore and examine the nuances and complexities of the citizenship-practice-civic education nexus across contexts." Laura Engel, George Washington University

"Kolleck and Karolewski have curated a rich collection of chapters examining the meanings and practices of citizenship across Central and Eastern Europe. Theoretical insights are made possible through careful empirical and policy analyses as the chapters variously consider youth engagement, digitalisation, blurring and re-drawing of national boundaries, the role of schools and how these affect practices of citizenship." Claire Maxwell, University of Copenhagen

"I highly recommend this edited book, which offers a comprehensive exploration of citizenship practices in Central and Eastern Europe. With a focus on civic education and young people's involvement, the book provides a nuanced view through both qualitative and quantitative lenses. Its regional scope and comparative analysis enrich our understanding of citizenship's role in shaping political engagement. This book is a valuable asset for those interested in European citizenship debates and beyond." Miri Yemini, Professor, Technion

"This volume brings together leading scholars exploring civic education in Central and East Europe - and most importantly it shows how citizenship is something lived and practiced. It deserves to be read well outside the region by anyone interested in rising populism, extremism, democracy and participatory civic engagement." Noah W. Sobe, Loyola University Chicago

About the Author

Nina Kolleck is Professor of Education and Socialization Theory at the University of Potsdam, with a specialization in citizenship education.

Ireneusz Pawel Karolewski is Professor of Political Theory and Democracy Research at the University of Leipzig, with a focus on citizenship in Europe.