Kosovo's elections seen as chance to heal divisions in the north

Dec 21, 2024 - Elections in Kosovo, set for February 2025, are being hailed as an opportunity to ease tensions and rebuild trust between Kosovo’s Serbs in the north and the authorities in Pristina.

European Union diplomats have expressed cautious optimism about the vote, which they see as a chance to stabilize the region and encourage greater participation from the Serbian community.

A history of mistrust

For years, northern Kosovo has faced challenges in organizing inclusive and fair elections. Past votes were overshadowed by allegations of intimidation and a lack of pluralism, with candidates opposing Belgrade often sidelined.

Tensions escalated in 2022 when Kosovo Serb representatives resigned en masse from local institutions. A subsequent boycott of elections in 2023 left local governance in limbo. The EU accused Serbia of orchestrating the withdrawal, a move seen as undermining the 2013 Brussels Agreement aimed at normalizing relations.

A cautious step forward

There are signs of progress. In late 2024, Serbia encouraged Kosovo Serbs to participate in the upcoming elections. The EU has welcomed this development, urging all communities to engage fully in the process.

“The elections are a critical moment for restoring democratic participation in the north and strengthening trust in institutions,” one EU diplomat told Radio Free Europe.

The General Affairs Council echoed these sentiments, calling for elected officials to assume their roles without preconditions.

What’s at stake?

The EU mission observing the elections will focus on ensuring all communities, especially minorities, can vote freely and fairly. Successful elections, observers say, could be a turning point for Kosovo’s north-south relations.

Diplomats also stress the link between normalized relations and progress toward EU membership for both Kosovo and Serbia.