The Belgrade-Pristina dialogue in the context of changing politics in Kosovo
The Institute for Foreign Affairs and Trade (IFAT) held an online roundtable discussion titled “The Belgrade-Pristina dialogue in the context of changing politics in Kosovo” on 21 April 2021. The event was moderated by Anna Orosz, Research Fellow and Program Manager (Post-Soviet Region and the Balkans) of IFAT, and the guest speakers were Donika Emini, the Executive Director of Civikos Platform in Kosovo and Igor Novaković, Research Director of the International and Security Affairs Centre – ISAC Fund in Serbia.
A decade has already passed since the Belgrade-Pristina dialogue started in 2011. The process managed to reach political level in 2013 with the Brussels Agreement. Since then, there were some achievements although there are even more criticisms and contradictions when it comes to the implementation of the dialogue. The speakers introduced the achievements of the process but also shed light on the major problems with the implementation and how the dialogue has been carried out so far. Furthermore, the speakers shared their views regarding the future of the process in the light of the divergent positions of the newly formed Kosovo government led by Albin Kurti and the Serbian president, Aleksandar Vučić.
Relating to the achievements of the dialogue, Igor Novaković pointed out the results are actually far better than perceived in public and that around 80% of the agreements were implemented, excluding the association of the Serb-majority municipalities that has been put on hold due to strong political opposition and the decision of the Constitutional Court in Kosovo. However, both Emini and Novaković pointed out the abuse of constructive ambiguity of the agreements signed that allowed different interpretations of the outcomes towards the public. They also expressed their concerns regarding the EU’s role in the facilitation that enabled that ambiguous approach that made the process less genuine. Instead of reaching common ground, the Serbian and Kosovo parties in the dialogue have followed their own narratives and definition regarding what is considered a fair negotiation. Furthermore, the speakers highlighted the lack of transparency and truthful willingness to participate and reach a solution which increased public mistrust regarding the process.
When referring to Kurti’s stance toward the dialogue, Emini pointed out that there was a change from the period when he had been in opposition and vigorously refused the negotiating conditions. Although, his recent statements indicate that Kurti accepted that the dialogue cannot be withdrawn and he has embraced to participate in the negotiations, but it is not apparent on what conditions and what will be his stance this time around. Despite these uncertainties, Novaković did not exclude the possibility that Kurti would change its attitude as it had happened with the previous ruling elite in Kosovo. The situation is not easier in Serbia neither. It is much easier for the decision-makers to talk about issues relating to national security then to talk about jobs and economy and the realistic challenges that are out there.
The speakers also elaborated the issues related to the EU’s role within the dialogue and EU integration process of the Western Balkans. Novaković noted that the optimistic view of Miroslav Lajčák, the EU special representative on the conclusion of the dialogue was precarious, especially considering the history of troubled negotiations and implementations. Both Emini and Novaković argued that the EU often undermines the integration process and negotiations like the dialogue itself either by linking them with other issues like visa liberalization for Kosovo or blocking EU accession process because of some member states’ interests. They believed that the EU should have a more active role in the Balkan region and should re-establish the principles and rules of the dialogue and provide clear perspective for prospective member states.
The online discussion concluded that the Belgrade-Pristina dialogue was still far from its end and there are many open questions regarding the parties’ future approaches. The challenge lies between all parties involved who will need to have a more genuine and clear strategy in order to make this process successful.
The full recording can accessed at the link below or on our YouTube-channel!