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Kosovo – the question of final status
Centre for Eastern Studies |
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| The problem of Kosovo’s final status is very important for the process of integrating the Balkans into Europe, as only independent states may apply for membership in the European Union, and because it seems that no stability in the region is possible as long as this status remains unclear. It is an extremely difficult conflict to resolve because the interests of the two sides differ radically. This paper examines the historical background to this problem, Kosovo’s relationship with Belgrade and Albania, the position of Kosovan Serbs, and the part played by the international community. Since the beginning of the Kosovo crisis the international community has officially stuck to the concept of a multi-ethnic Kosovo in which non-Albanians would be treated as equal to the Albanian majority, and not as national minorities in an Albanian Kosovo. It is hoped that integration with the European Union and Kosovo’s dependence on Western financial assistance, combined with the threat of complete international isolation and an awareness of NATO’s military power will persuade Albanian’s to give up their independence aspirations. Talks on Kosovo’s final status will almost certainly involve the participation of the United State, the European Union, the United Nations and perhaps Russia. |
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| Contributor: |
Centre for Eastern Studies - http://www.osw.waw.pl |
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| Topic: |
Politics and Governance |
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| Country: |
Bosnia and Herzegovina |
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| Document Type: |
Political Analyses and Commentaries |
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| Year: |
2003 |
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| Keywords: |
EU Enlargement, Foreign Policy, Minorities, NATO, Refugees |
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