Croatia and Bosnia and Herzegovina
Building Peace in the Balkans
Seek to understand all sides of a complex and historic conflict that has reverberated for generations while expanding your own perspectives on what it truly means to build peace in the world.
Yugoslavia, the Union of Southern Slavs, was designed to bring together a diverse mix of identities, histories, and religions. That was until war erupted in the 1990’s, and Yugoslavia began to break apart. In its place, Europe gained six new countries, and a region with a complicated history became even more complicated. Bosnia in particular, a nation made up of three primary religious ethnic groups, went from peace to violence in a matter of days. Now, less than 30 years later, the wars are over, but challenges to long-term peace remain.
When we travel through the countries of the former Yugoslavia, we are confronted with some incredible stories, from the times when the country was a global leader to horror stories of war. As we hear and collect these different perspectives though, it is striking how the historical narratives and perspectives before, during, and after the war vary. How might we make sense of the overlapping and conflicting narratives of history in the region? How can we understand how history and identity are crafted? How might we help everyone understand that history has a voice?
Visiting Zagreb, Korcula, and Dubrovnik in Croatia and Sarajevo and Mostar in Bosnia with Atlas Workshops, we will begin to unravel the complex reverberations of conflict. We’ll talk with members of different organizations, generations, and ethnic groups to learn how communities are working to channel painful memories into a positive and more peaceful future. We’ll get a sense for the divisions and debates that still linger, and expand our own perspectives on what it truly means to build peace in the world.
Important Considerations / Student Expectations
All passports must be current seven months past the return date of any school sponsored trip. Please check and plan accordingly.
Sign-Up Instructions
Participation for all Lawrenceville Harkness Travel Programs is dependent upon a review of student applications, Head of House / Day Advisor Recommendations, medical fitness for participation, and financial and disciplinary standing. Seniority and gender balance is also considered in the selection process.
Application to this program is not considered complete until both of the following items have been submitted:
Head of House/Day Advisor Recommendation must be completed and submitted to Louise Wright by Monday, October 31, 2022.
Application Survey must be completed by Monday, October 31, 2021.
Dates
June 8 - 19, 2023
Price
$6,500
Includes all required vaccinations.
Target Student Population
This trip is open to III-IV Formers.
Program Leaders
Marisa Hedges
History Teacher
Doug Davis
Assistant Dean of Students
Pre-Trip Work
Prior to departure, there will be mandatory meetings, readings and assignments for all students accepted into this program.