Global civil society mobilisation during the Yugoslav wars (1991-1995): The case of Dante Cruicchi in Marzabotto

This thesis investigates the role of global civil society in organizing and managing humanitarian aid during the wars in the former Yugoslavia. The focus is on the analysis of various local entities, cities, and municipalities that, by forming a transnational network, provided significant support to the civilian population during the conflict. The case study centers on Dante Cruicchi, a prominent figure both within the Emilia-Romagna region, where he served as mayor of Marzabotto (Bologna), and on the international stage. Cruicchi’s efforts were grounded in the principles of peace, human rights, and democracy, fostering both informal relationships – through personal ties with key figures in the Balkans and beyond – and formal collaborations, such as city twinning programs and international conferences. His work was also deeply rooted in the shared history of the Resistance during World War II, highlighting how preserving historical memory is essential to preventing the recurrence of atrocities and nazifascist massacres. The study ultimately demonstrates how Cruicchi’s approach to transnational solidarity provided a model for effective humanitarian action, deeply intertwined with the historical and ethical imperative of remembrance.