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Kosovo Heads to Elections Amid Political Crisis and Ethnic Tensions

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  Published in Politics and Government on Sunday, December 28th 2025 at 7:33 GMT by Toronto Star

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Kosovo Faces Pivotal Elections Amidst Deepening Political Crisis & Ethnic Tensions

Kosovo is heading towards snap parliamentary elections on October 17th, a desperate attempt to break a prolonged period of political deadlock and simmering ethnic tensions that have paralyzed the government and threatened regional stability. The election, mandated by constitutional rules after failing to form a coalition following February’s general election, represents a critical juncture for the young nation's future, with implications extending beyond its borders into the Balkans.

The crisis stems from the resignation of Prime Minister Albin Kurti in March. While Kurti, leader of the Vetëvendosje (Self-Determination) movement, initially secured a plurality of votes in February – winning 47 out of 120 seats – he was unable to build a governing coalition with other parties. The failure arose from a complex web of political rivalries and disagreements over key policy issues, primarily concerning relations with Serbia and the handling of ongoing tensions within Kosovo itself.

Kurti's confrontational approach towards Serbia has been a central point of contention. He has consistently advocated for a more assertive stance against Belgrade, rejecting concessions on issues like recognizing Kosovo’s independence – a demand persistently made by Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić. This hardline position alienated key international actors, including the United States and the European Union, who have urged both sides to engage in dialogue and compromise. The EU, in particular, has emphasized the need for normalization of relations between Kosovo and Serbia as a prerequisite for further integration into the bloc. (See also: [ https://www.thestar.com/news/world/europe/kosovo-serbia-talks-breakdown-as-tensions-rise/article_79b5836c-40f2-5d1e-a80a-70a9d4f9d490.html ] for more on the stalled normalization talks).

The international pressure to facilitate dialogue and compromise ultimately contributed to Kurti's downfall. While he maintains that his resignation was a principled stand against external interference, critics accuse him of being unwilling to adapt his policies to appease key allies. The United States, in particular, reportedly withheld support for his government after he fired several North Macedonian officials without prior consultation – an action seen as undermining regional stability and damaging relations with neighboring countries.

Beyond the Serbia issue, internal divisions also played a significant role. The Democratic League of Kosovo (LDK), initially considered a potential coalition partner, ultimately withdrew its support due to disagreements over economic policies and Kurti’s governance style. The LDK, historically one of Kosovo's dominant political forces, has seen its influence wane in recent years but remains a crucial player in the country's political landscape. The Democratic Party of Kosovo (PDK), another significant party, also refused to join a coalition with Vetëvendosje, further solidifying the deadlock.

The snap election comes against a backdrop of heightened ethnic tensions within Kosovo itself. Recent protests and clashes have erupted in northern Kosovo, predominantly populated by Serbs who feel marginalized and alienated from Pristina’s government. These incidents are fueled by issues such as license plate regulations (which sparked particularly intense unrest) and perceptions of discrimination. The situation is exacerbated by the presence of Serbian paramilitary groups operating in the region, further destabilizing the area. The EU-facilitated dialogue between Kosovo and Serbia has stalled considerably, leaving a vacuum that extremist elements can exploit.

The upcoming election presents voters with several potential outcomes. Vetëvendosje remains a strong contender, but its ability to form a coalition will depend on whether other parties are willing to compromise. The LDK and PDK are likely to vie for influence, potentially positioning themselves as kingmakers in the post-election landscape. Newcomer parties may also emerge, adding further complexity to the political equation. A fragmented parliament could lead to another period of instability and prolonged negotiations, while a decisive victory for one party could allow for more rapid policy implementation – though it wouldn't necessarily guarantee a smooth path forward given the deep divisions within Kosovo society.

The international community is keenly observing the election. The United States and the European Union have repeatedly called for free and fair elections, emphasizing the importance of dialogue and compromise to resolve the ongoing crisis. A stable and functional government in Kosovo is seen as crucial for regional stability and the broader goal of European integration. However, regardless of the outcome, significant challenges remain, including addressing ethnic tensions, normalizing relations with Serbia, and fostering economic development. The snap election offers a chance for a fresh start, but whether it will be enough to overcome these deep-seated problems remains to be seen. The future trajectory of Kosovo hinges on the decisions made by voters next month and the willingness of political leaders to prioritize national unity over partisan interests.

I hope this article provides a comprehensive summary of the situation in Kosovo as described in the linked article, incorporating relevant context from other sources.