The 2025 Kosovo parliamentary elections demonstrated significant political challenges amid a complex landscape characterized by ethnic tensions and governance issues. The ruling Vetëvendosje party emerged as the largest but without a majority. The elections attracted international observation, highlighting both progress and concerns regarding political discourse and legitimacy.
Following the Dayton Peace Accords, international observers monitored elections in ex-Yugoslavia to identify signs of progress. The recent Kosovo parliamentary elections mirror this pattern, whereby the need for political diversity and consensus persists. However, the “peace accord” presents a mixed picture, as evidenced by the failures of the Rambouillet and Ohrid agreements, maintaining a climate of political stagnation across the region.
As the Central Electoral Commission (CEC) prepared for the 2025 elections, it affirmed its commitment to impartial electoral processes. Local observers noted a lack of significant electoral abuses, yet a legal scholar described Kosovo as a ”living irregularity,” requiring daily validation of its legitimacy. The parliamentary elections on February 9, 2025, showed no party gaining a majority; the ruling Vetëvendosje party, led by Prime Minister Albin Kurti, secured the majority of votes but not enough for outright control.
In a region marked by historical and ethnic sensitivities, the absence of severe violence was notable, as electoral processes appeared largely respected. However, critics argue that the manipulation of regulations reflects structural inequities intrinsic to Kosovo politics. Overall, the recent elections did not witness rampant intimidation or corruption, but the legacy of war remains a prevailing concern.
In the 2021 elections, Lëvizja Vetëvendosje won a historic 58 seats, forming a coalition with minority parties. This government became the first since Kosovo’s independence to complete a full term. The CEC reports that the electoral process was conducted effectively, adhering to the legal framework, which aims to represent both majority and minority voices in governance.
President Vjosa Osmani consulted political party leaders regarding the 2025 election date, emphasizing constitutional requirements. While opposition figures lobbied for an earlier election date, a compromise set the election for February 9, 2025. Twenty political entities aimed to participate in this electoral process, showcasing substantial political engagement despite ongoing challenges.
In December 2024, the CEC faced controversy after disqualifying the Serb-List party due to nationalistic comments from its leader. However, following an appeal, the Election Complaints and Appeals Panel reversed the decision. Despite this, tensions surrounding Serbian representation heightened due to the perceived bias against the Serb political presence.
The ruling parties, including Vetëvendosje, announced collaboration on a joint electoral list ahead of the elections, while opposition parties also formed coalitions. The political discourse encompassed key issues such as the economy, international relations, and social rights, especially concerning proposed legislation affecting LGBTQ rights and marriage equality.
Post-election, Prime Minister Kurti prioritized domestic policy over dialogue with Serbia, reflecting a challenging political atmosphere. Historical friction has intensified, particularly regarding the legality of Serbian license plates in Kosovo, leading to protests in Serb-majority areas. These issues further complicate Kosovo’s fragile ethnic relationships and emphasize the necessity for careful governance moving forward.
The June 2022 proposal to introduce entry-exit documentation for Serbian citizens further strained local relations, prompting withdrawals from institutional collaborations by Serbian officials. Controversy also surrounded proposals for civil partnerships for same-sex couples, which faced substantial opposition within the assembly. The delayed progress on inclusion and rights reform signals ongoing difficulties in reaching consensus in fragmented political settings.
The recent elections were observed by EU monitors, who praised the peaceful nature of the process while also highlighting deep political divisions and voter pressure scenarios. The ruling Vetëvendosje party emerged as the largest, yet without a decisive majority, leading to speculations about future coalition dynamics. Prime Minister Kurti stated his intention to serve all constituents, illustrating the intricate task of coalition governance in a partitioned political landscape.
The Kosovo parliamentary elections of 2025 reflected ongoing political complexities marked by ethnic tensions and the challenge of governance in a post-conflict society. Despite no party achieving a majority, the elections were largely peaceful, indicating a cautious approach towards political maneuvering. As Kosovo navigates its future, the pressing need for democratic legitimacy and inclusivity remains paramount. The ongoing discourse around rights and governance will be crucial in determining Kosovo’s political trajectory.
Original Source: www.e-ir.info
