Memory and Identity on the Borderland: Reinterpretation of Space

Abstract

In this article, the author gives a brief description of the studies of the borderland from the point of view of anthropology, problematizes the study of memory and identity on the borderland from the point of view of the theory of “places of memory” by P. Nora and the discursive nature of these phenomena. The author analyzes two cases, focusing on the mechanisms of space reinterpretation in order to form a new memory and a new local identity both through the efforts of state actors and through everyday practices. The author comes to the conclusion that successful practices of space reinterpretation are often associated with a radical change in the demographic characteristics of the border region and the implementation of an appropriate consistent policy that synchronizes with everyday practices of the development of this physical and socio-cultural space by local residents. Otherwise, different versions of the memory of the same space among different groups of the border population lead to an aggravation of the conflict potential of their interaction with each other and with central state institutions as they are interested in only one political project.