Narrating Nationhood Without a Nation: Flemish Paradiplomacy and the Shaping of Identity

This study examines how Flanders constructs and projects a distinct regional identity through its paradiplomatic relations. To explore this phenomenon, the paper adopts a poststructuralist discourse analysis, enabling an in-depth examination of how Flemish identity is articulated through language and strategically mobilised in diplomatic interactions. The study focuses on Flemish diplomats’ speeches during official visits abroad, analysing both their lexicometric aspects and content. Through this analysis, the research identifies recurring themes and rhetorical strategies that shape the external projection of Flemish identity and influence the region’s positioning in international relations. While Flemish paradiplomacy has been widely studied, little attention has been given to the specific characteristics of Flemish identity as conveyed in diplomatic narratives. Against this backdrop, this research provides new insights into how Flemish diplomats mobilise historical, linguistic, and cultural references to assert themselves as independent actors on the international stage, thereby reinforcing Flanders’ legitimacy as a global player. The analysis reveals that Flemish diplomatic speeches prioritise different aspects of identity depending on the geopolitical context, with European delegations focusing on economic and political cooperation, while those outside Europe highlight cultural heritage and historical ties. By situating Flanders’ case within broader discussions on regionalism, identity politics, and the evolving role of sub-state actors in diplomacy, this study contributes understanding how paradiplomacy functions not only as a political tool but also as a means of identity-building in a world where traditional state structures are increasingly contested.