EU Requirements for Serbia
Serbia’s path to EU membership now depends on its silent consent for Kosovo’s assent to international organizations, such as the UN and Council of Europe. The EU has made it clear that Serbia must implement an agreement on normalizing its relationship with Kosovo to continue its accession process into the bloc.
Challenges in Kosovo-Serbia Relations
Belgrade rejects Kosovo’s independence, and tensions between the two entities have been ongoing for almost three decades. The Ohrid agreement, aimed at normalizing relations, has been a focal point, with Serbia facing the dilemma of recognizing Kosovo or risking its EU membership aspirations. Kosovo’s self-management and Serbia’s concerns about second-class citizenship have added complexity to the situation.
Recent Developments
Kosovo’s recent success in joining international organizations, such as the Council of Europe, has further strained relations with Serbia. President Vučić’s strong reaction to Kosovo’s CoE membership and Serbia’s military drills near the Kosovo border indicate the heightened tensions. The specter of instability in the region remains a significant concern for Western capitals.
