The invocation of "fifth columns" in the political arena has recurred periodically throughout modern history and is experiencing an upsurge in our era of democratic erosion. Fifth-column accusations can have baleful effects on governance and trust as they call into question the loyalty and belonging of the targeted populations. Enemies Within is the first book to systematically investigate the roots and implications of the politics of the fifth columns. The contributors to this volume apply a common theoretical framework and work within the tradition of qualitative social science to analyze cases from three continents. Enemies Within offer a unique perspective to understand better contemporary challenges, including the return of chauvinistic nationalism, the weakening of democratic norms, and the persecution of minorities and political dissidents.
The event will open with remarks by Dean Ayres, followed by a short presentation of the book by Professors Mylonas and Radnitz, and a discussion by Professors Sheri Berman and Andreas Wimmer. This will be followed by a Q&A with the audience. Several contributors will also be present. Light refreshments will be served.
For more details and to RSVP, please visit the Eventbrite link.
This event is on the record and open to the media.
The Institute for European, Russian and Eurasian Studies (IERES)
Elliott School of International Affairs, George Washington University
1957 E Street, NW / Suite 412 / Washington, DC 20052
Tel (202) 994-6340 / Fax (202) 994-5436 / Email ieresgwu@gwu.edu
