Closure of Serbian Institutions in Northern Kosovo
Kosovo authorities have shut down five institutions operating in the northern part of the country, where the ethnic Serb minority is concentrated. This decision, announced by Elbert Krasniqi, Kosovo’s Minister of Local Administration, could escalate tensions with Serbia. Krasniqi stated that these institutions were closed for “violating the Republic of Kosovo’s constitution and laws.”
Justification for the Shutdown
The Kosovo police executed the closures following a request from the Ministry of Administration and Local Government. The move aimed to halt what Kosovo authorities consider “illegal activities” carried out by these Serbian-run entities. The closure is seen as a significant step by Kosovo to assert its sovereignty in areas with a large ethnic Serb population.
Tensions Rise Amidst Stalled EU Talks
The shutdown comes amid growing tensions between Kosovo and Serbia, despite 13 years of EU-facilitated talks aimed at normalizing relations. These talks have largely stalled, and the recent closure of Serbian institutions could further strain the fragile peace between the two nations.
Kosovo’s Firm Stance Against Parallel Institutions
Minister Krasniqi reinforced Kosovo’s position against the so-called parallel institutions, which are set up and run by the ethnic Serb minority in defiance of Kosovo’s laws. He communicated this stance via a Facebook post, where he emphasized the need to uphold Kosovo’s constitutional integrity and maintain law and order.
Potential Impact on Regional Stability
The shutdown of these institutions has the potential to ignite further tensions in an already volatile region. With relations between Kosovo and Serbia remaining tense, the move could trigger a response from Serbia and complicate ongoing international efforts to broker peace between the two countries.
SOURCE: Ref Image from Arab News
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