Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

balkanization

noun

/ˌbɔːlkənʌɪˈzeɪʃən/

Definition

The process of dividing a region or state into smaller, often hostile units.

Examples

After the war, the country faced balkanization as various factions fought for control.
The balkanization of the region made it difficult for any single government to maintain order.
Some analysts feared that the balkanization of communities could worsen relations between different social groups.

Meaning

Balkanization refers to the fragmentation of a larger area into smaller, often conflicting groups or territories, which can lead to political instability and social strife.