Beyond the Headlines: Hate Symbols, Vandalism, and the Gaps in Perception in 3 Balkan Countries

• In Event: Global Perspectives on Deviance, Marginalization, and Transformation

Abstract

Hate symbols used in acts of vandalism are an often overlooked indicator of underlying social tensions and intergroup hostilities. While such incidents may constitute hate crimes, they are frequently underreported or dismissed due to varying perceptions among citizens, criminal justice actors, and media narratives. This study explores the phenomenon of underreporting hate-motivated vandalism by examining how different societal actors interpret and respond to these incidents. Through semi-structured interviews with 15 criminal justice professionals and 45 citizens across Bosnia, Croatia, and Serbia, this research investigates the barriers to reporting and the factors influencing public and institutional responses to hate symbols. Data collection was conducted both in person and via Zoom. Preliminary findings reveal discrepancies between media representations of hate-related vandalism and the lived experiences of both citizens and criminal justice professionals. By shedding light on these diverging narratives, this research highlights the structural and social obstacles to recognizing and addressing hate crimes in the Balkans. Understanding these barriers is crucial for developing policies that improve the identification, documentation, and prevention of hate-motivated vandalism. This study contributes to broader discussions on hate crime reporting, institutional trust, and the role of public perception in shaping justice outcomes.

Author

• Ena Prskalo, University of Kentucky