Pojedinačni naslov
Kosovo’s national security landscape is shaped by a complex array of internal and external challenges, primarily revolving around its ongoing disputes with Serbia, efforts toward EU and NATO integration, and external geopolitical pressures from actors like Russia and China. Since declaring independence in 2008, Kosovo has faced continuous opposition from Serbia, which refuses to recognize its sovereignty and actively works to undermine its international standing. This ongoing tension presents a significant hurdle to Kosovo’s aspirations of joining the EU, other international organizations and advancing its security agenda.
The Western Balkans have long been a hotspot for ethno-political nationalism and external interference, both of which complicate the region’s stability and security. The EU’s involvement through facilitated dialogue between Kosovo and Serbia is critical, but recent escalations, such as the Banjska terrorist attack demonstrate the fragility of these efforts. At the same time, Russia’s strategic interest in destabilizing the region, particularly through disinformation campaigns, exacerbates existing tensions and undermines Kosovo’s security and Euro-Atlantic integration goals.
Kosovo’s path toward full EU and NATO membership is seen not only as a means of political and economic integration but as a fundamental part of its strategy to ensure long-term national security and regional stability. However, the process has been slow, with obstacles such as partial international recognition and resistance from key EU member states. Despite these challenges, Kosovo remains committed to its Western orientation, viewing EU and NATO membership as its future.
This report analyzes Kosovo’s national security challenges within the context of its EU integration, highlighting the influence of Serbia, Russia, and ethno-political nationalism. It also explores the critical role of the EU in ensuring stability in Kosovo and the broader Western Balkans, offering insights into how these dynamics shape the future of the region.
The Western Balkans have long been a hotspot for ethno-political nationalism and external interference, both of which complicate the region’s stability and security. The EU’s involvement through facilitated dialogue between Kosovo and Serbia is critical, but recent escalations, such as the Banjska terrorist attack demonstrate the fragility of these efforts. At the same time, Russia’s strategic interest in destabilizing the region, particularly through disinformation campaigns, exacerbates existing tensions and undermines Kosovo’s security and Euro-Atlantic integration goals.
Kosovo’s path toward full EU and NATO membership is seen not only as a means of political and economic integration but as a fundamental part of its strategy to ensure long-term national security and regional stability. However, the process has been slow, with obstacles such as partial international recognition and resistance from key EU member states. Despite these challenges, Kosovo remains committed to its Western orientation, viewing EU and NATO membership as its future.
This report analyzes Kosovo’s national security challenges within the context of its EU integration, highlighting the influence of Serbia, Russia, and ethno-political nationalism. It also explores the critical role of the EU in ensuring stability in Kosovo and the broader Western Balkans, offering insights into how these dynamics shape the future of the region.