The DIVIDE project examines how secession referendums influence ethnic and national identities, as well as relations between different groups within democratic societies. Bringing together research on ethnic conflict, identity formation, and direct democracy, the project explores how referendum campaigns and outcomes can reshape perceptions of belonging and affect conflict dynamics at the international, national, and local levels. Using a comparative and data-driven approach grounded in advanced methods of causal inference, DIVIDE analyzes the broader political and social consequences of secessionist movements across established democracies. By generating new insights into identity change and intergroup relations, the project aims to contribute to more informed policymaking and to the promotion of peaceful and stable democratic governance.
The project is funded by the Swiss National Science Foundation (SNSF).
Research Objectives
Identity Transformation
Analysis of how secession referendums reshape and strengthen ethnic and national identities within democratic societies.
Conflict Dynamics
Examination of the ways referendum campaigns and outcomes influence tensions, cooperation, and intergroup relations at the international, national, and local levels.
Majority–Minority Relations
Investigation of how secession referendums affect different groups involved in the process, including:
- Majorities in seceding regions
- Minorities in seceding regions
- Majorities in remaining territories
- Minorities in remaining territories
Democratic Governance
Development of insights that can support democratic societies in addressing political polarization, managing ethnic tensions, and promoting peaceful coexistence.
Why This Research Matters
Societal Relevance
Secessionist movements and territorial disputes are becoming increasingly visible across democratic societies. Yet little is known about how referendums connected to independence movements influence identities, perceptions of belonging, and intergroup relations.
The DIVIDE project contributes to:
- A deeper understanding of ethnic and national identity formation
- Evidence-based approaches to conflict prevention
- Policy discussions on democratic governance and social cohesion
- Comparative knowledge on secessionist politics in democracies
The project’s findings may help policymakers and institutions better manage tensions in contexts where ethnic divisions and secessionist claims are politically salient.
Recent Activities & Conference Participation
Academic Presentations and Workshops
Since September, members of the DIVIDE project have presented their research at several international academic conferences and workshops, including:
- Swiss Political Science Association Annual Congress — Zurich
- Young Researchers Conference
- ECPR Joint Sessions of Workshops
- Workshop on Political Identities in Europe — November
- Research presentation at ETH Zurich — March
