The Role of the EU in Shaping Kosovo’s Political Future: A Critical Analysis

Abstract This paper critically analyzes the role of the European Union (EU) in shaping Kosovo’s political future, with a particular focus on the successes, challenges, and implications of the EU’s involvement for Kosovo-Serbia relations. Drawing on existing literature and primary sources, the paper compares the EU’s approach to Kosovo with its policies towards other countries in the region, including Bosnia and Herzegovina and North Macedonia. Through this comparative analysis, the paper highlights the unique challenges that Kosovo faces in its efforts to integrate with the EU, including the lack of recognition from five EU member states and ongoing political disputes with Serbia. Additionally, the paper examines the impact of EU conditionality on Kosovo’s domestic politics, particularly in relation to corruption and the rule of law. Overall, the paper argues that while the EU has played a significant role in shaping Kosovo’s political future, ongoing challenges and uncertainties may impact Kosovo’s path towards EU accession.


Introduction
The EU has been actively involved in Kosovo since the end of the Kosovo War in 1999. Kosovo's independence in 2008 was recognized by most EU member states, and the EU has played a key role in Kosovo's political and economic development since then.

Burim Mexhuani
ABOUT THE AUTHOR Burim Mexhuani, PhD, is an accomplished researcher with a focus on political science, particularly in the areas of political parties, ideology, and the relationship between Kosovo and the European Union. He received his PhD in Political Science (International Relations) from the European University of Tirana in Albania in 2020, demonstrating his dedication to academic excellence. In addition to his academic achievements, Burim has also made significant contributions to the Government of Kosovo since 2008, serving as a senior member and developing exceptional project management skills. He is highly organized and independent, with exceptional time management abilities that allow him to prioritize and effectively tackle challenges. Burim's research reported in this paper relates to wider projects and issues related to the European Union's enlargement policy and its engagement in the Western Balkans. It also contributes to the academic literature on democratization and conflict resolution in the Balkans and provides insights into the EU's role in promoting stability and reconciliation in the region.

Literature review
The role of the European Union in shaping Kosovo's political future has been a topic of interest for many scholars and researchers in Kosovo and beyond. The following literature review will focus on studies written by Albanian authors or others that are relevant to the Kosovo context. One study that is relevant to this topic is "The EU's Role in the Kosovo-Serbia Dialogue: Progress and Challenges" by Vjosa Musliu and Jelena Aparac. This study analyzes the role of the EU in facilitating the dialogue between Kosovo and Serbia and examines the challenges that need to be addressed in order to achieve progress. The authors argue that the EU's involvement in the dialogue has been essential, but that there are still significant challenges that need to be addressed, such as the issue of war crimes and missing persons (Musliu & Aparac, 2019).
Another study that is relevant to this topic is "Kosovo's path towards EU integration: Challenges and Prospects" by Adem Beha. This study provides an overview of the challenges that Kosovo faces in its path towards EU integration, and examines the prospects for the country's future. The author argues that Kosovo must address issues such as corruption and rule of law, and must also find a way to address the concerns of the five EU member states that do not recognize Kosovo's independence (Beha, 2018).
"European Integration and Democracy Building in Kosovo: Challenges and Prospects" by Arbana Xharra is another study that is relevant to this topic. This study examines the relationship between European integration and democracy building in Kosovo, and argues that the EU's involvement in Kosovo has been instrumental in promoting democracy and stability in the country (Xharra, 2018).
However, the author also notes that there are significant challenges that need to be addressed, such as the issue of corruption. Finally, "The EU Rule of Law Mission in Kosovo: An Overview" by Laura C. Turcu provides an overview of the EU's rule of law mission in Kosovo, which was established in 2008 (Turcu, 2017).
The study examines the impact that the mission has had on Kosovo's justice system, and argues that the mission has been successful in promoting the rule of law and enhancing the capacity of Kosovo's justice institutions. The literature review has shown that there are many studies written by Albanian authors or others that are relevant to the topic of the EU's role in shaping Kosovo's political future. These studies provide valuable insights into the challenges that Kosovo faces, as well as the prospects for the country's future.
The literature on the EU's involvement in Kosovo is vast and varied, covering a wide range of topics, including EU policies towards Kosovo, EU support for political and economic reforms, and EU mediation in negotiations between Kosovo and Serbia. Several studies have noted that the EU's approach towards Kosovo has been primarily guided by its desire to promote stability and democracy in the Western Balkans, and to bring the region closer to the EU. The EU has provided significant financial assistance to Kosovo, and has also encouraged political and economic reforms through various programs and initiatives (Novotná, 2020).
However, several studies have also noted that the EU's policies towards Kosovo have been inconsistent, and that there has been a lack of coherence and coordination among EU member states in their approach towards Kosovo. Previous research has highlighted the EU's role in shaping Kosovo's political future, emphasizing the importance of EU integration for the country's democratization and economic development.
However, less attention has been paid to the impact of non-recognition by EU member states on Kosovo's accession process. The non-recognition of Kosovo by these five EU member states has implications for Kosovo's international status, its relations with its neighbors, and the EU's credibility as a normative power in the Western Balkans. Previous research has also highlighted the challenges that non-recognition poses to Kosovo's European integration process, including obstacles to visa liberalization, trade agreements, and political cooperation.

Methodology
In relation to the literature review, a comprehensive search of academic articles, policy documents, and reports was conducted to examine the role of the EU in shaping Kosovo's political future and its comparison with other Balkan states. The data was collected from various sources, including academic databases, records, and information publications.
To provide a deeper analysis, this paper employs a comparative and critical methodology to examine EU policies towards Kosovo and other Balkan states, with a focus on analyzing similarities and differences between the EU and these states. The analysis is open to various types of data and key points that have influenced the EU's relationship with the region.
To strengthen the analysis, the paper avoids a purely descriptive method of presentation and instead provides detailed and critical analysis of the issues. Furthermore, comparisons with other Western Balkan countries are comprehensive, providing a more complete picture of the region.
The sources used in this paper are carefully selected and evaluated for their reliability, relevance, and limitations. The methodology used for the analysis of the sources is rigorous, and it is applied consistently throughout the research process.
The legal aspects are considered in this paper by presenting a detailed analysis of legal and political factors that have influenced EU policies towards Kosovo and other Balkan states. The analysis takes into account a set of principles, stages, and phases, methods, techniques, and instruments for investigating and gaining scientific knowledge of legal/political phenomena.
The findings of this paper are presented with a focus on the main themes, trends, and issues related to EU policies towards the Western Balkans, including a detailed analysis of the similarities and differences between the EU and various Balkan states, including Kosovo. The paper concludes by drawing a conclusion based on the findings of the research and identifying areas for further research. The study highlights the strengths and limitations of the research field and provides recommendations for future research in the field.

Shaping Kosovo's Political Future: Assessing the EU's Role in Comparison to Other Balkan States
The Western Balkans, an area encompassing countries in the Balkan Peninsula, has experienced political instability and ethnic conflict since the 1990s. Kosovo, which declared independence from Serbia in 2008, is one of the states in the region that has faced significant challenges in building a stable and democratic political system. The European Union (EU) has been a key player in the region, supporting democratic reforms and promoting regional cooperation. This paper aims to assess the EU's role in shaping Kosovo's political future in comparison to other Balkan states.
Since the collapse of Yugoslavia, the Western Balkans have been the focus of significant international attention. The region has been characterized by political instability, economic underdevelopment, and ethnic conflict. The EU has played a key role in the region, offering support for democratic reforms, promoting regional cooperation, and encouraging states to align with EU norms and standards.
In the case of the Western Balkans, the EU has pursued a stabilization and association process that requires reforms in key policy areas and aims to bring the countries closer to EU membership (Irion, 2014). Kosovo, which declared independence from Serbia in 2008, has faced significant challenges in building a stable and democratic political system. The EU's approach is based on the enlargement process and the Stabilisation and Association Process (SAP) for the Western Balkans (2021). The EU has been an important player in the country, supporting political and economic reforms and encouraging the normalization of relations with Serbia. The Western Balkans are a priority for the European Union.
Moreover, a range of external factors-including the post-9/11 "war on terror", the EU's eastern enlargement and the Union's post-2004 constitutional debate-have combined to reduce the appeal of EU membership in the Balkans (Keukeleire & Šipulová, 2007). The EU is committed to supporting the political, economic and social transformation of the region, with a view to consolidating peace, stability and prosperity.
The EU has been a key factor in shaping Kosovo's political future, providing significant financial and technical assistance to the country. The EU has also supported political reforms, encouraging the development of democratic institutions and the rule of law. The EU has also played a crucial role in the normalization of relations between Kosovo and Serbia, promoting dialogue and encouraging both sides to work towards a peaceful settlement.
Compared to other Balkan states, the EU's role in Kosovo has been significant. However, the EU's influence in the region has been uneven, with some states receiving more attention and support than others. For example, Croatia and Serbia have been the focus of significant EU attention, with Croatia joining the EU in 2013 and Serbia becoming a candidate country in 2012. Bosnia and Herzegovina, on the other hand, has faced significant challenges in its EU integration process, with political instability and ethnic tensions hindering progress.
The chapter seeks to explain why the EU's leverage has been limited in the post-socialist Balkans, with a focus on the case studies of Bosnia and Herzegovina and Kosovo (Štiks & Igor, 2017). The EU encourages and supports the efforts of the Western Balkan countries to strengthen democratic institutions and practices, respect for human rights, rule of law and good governance, and to address the remaining challenges of the region, such as the fight against corruption and organized crime, economic reform, and inter-ethnic reconciliation (EU, 2021).
The EU's role in shaping Kosovo's political future has been significant, providing crucial support for democratic reforms and promoting regional cooperation. However, the EU's influence in the region has been uneven, with some states receiving more attention and support than others. The EU is also engaged in facilitating regional cooperation and reconciliation, supporting the resolution of bilateral disputes, promoting infrastructure connectivity and people-to-people contacts, and addressing the shared challenges of the region, such as environmental protection, energy security, and migration (EU, 2021).
The EU has struggled to come to terms with the challenge of the Balkans (Ker-Lindsay, 2009). To achieve lasting stability and democratic development in the Western Balkans, the EU needs to continue to play an active role in the region, promoting political reforms and supporting economic development. Additionally, the EU should work towards ensuring that all states in the region are treated equally and receive the support they need to build stable and democratic political systems. In the face of continued instability, the EU remains keen to promote its normative values in the region, but it has been unable to translate its objectives into practical results.
Several sources indicate that Kosovo has faced unique challenges in its journey towards EU accession compared to other Balkan states due to its unresolved territorial dispute with Serbia (Beha et al., 2020). However, Kosovo has made progress in its reforms and EU integration efforts in recent years, and its EU membership perspective is now considered a priority by the EU (European Commission, 2020a; Vuković, 2021).
On the other hand, some researchers argue that the progress of other Balkan states, such as Montenegro and North Macedonia, has been slower than that of Kosovo due to various political and economic challenges (Stojanović, 2020); (Vuković, The Western Balkans and the EU: The example of Serbia and North Macedonia, Vuković, 2019). For instance, Montenegro's EU accession process has been marred by corruption scandals and political turmoil, while North Macedonia faced significant opposition from EU member states during its accession negotiations due to a bilateral dispute with Greece (European Commission, 2020b).
In comparing the EU's policies towards Kosovo with those towards other Balkan states, this paper finds that there are both similarities and differences. Similarities include the use of conditionality as a tool for promoting democratization and EU membership, as well as the emphasis on regional cooperation and reconciliation. In both Croatia and Serbia and Montenegro, the EU has used political conditionality to induce compliance with a range of democratic, human rights and rule of law standards (Keukeleire & Šipulová, 2007).
However, there are also notable differences, such as the unique challenges faced by Kosovo due to its disputed status and the particular attention given to Serbia's EU accession process. The EU's policy towards the Western Balkans should take account of the region's unique circumstances and respond to them in a more agile and flexible manner, rather than applying a one-size-fits-all approach (Group, 2018).
One study that highlights the similarities and differences in the EU's approach to Kosovo and Serbia is by Hulme and Bello-Schünemann (Hulme & Schünemann, 2019). They argue that while both countries have made progress towards EU integration, the EU's approach to Serbia has been more focused on state-building and normalization of relations with Kosovo, while its approach to Kosovo has emphasized democratization and rule of law.
Another study that compares EU policies towards Kosovo with those towards other Balkan states is by Vuković (Vuković, 2021). He finds that while the EU's approach to Kosovo has been characterized by a strong focus on institution-building and democratization, its approach to other Balkan states such as Serbia and Montenegro has been more focused on economic reforms and the fight against corruption. In the face of continued instability, the EU remains keen to promote its normative values in the region, but it has been unable to translate its objectives into practical results (Ker-Lindsay, 2009).
The EU's conditionality policy towards the region, while successful in some aspects, has faced serious limitations in addressing endemic corruption, weak judiciary, and nationalist pressures, which have hampered the consolidation of democratic institutions and undermined the EU's transformative role (Štiks & Igor, 2017). Ultimately, therefore, the prospects for EU policy in the Balkans look bleak (Ker-Lindsay, 2009).

The EU's involvement in Kosovo: A critical analysis
The European Union (EU) has played a significant role in Kosovo since the country declared independence from Serbia in 2008. The EU's involvement in Kosovo has been primarily focused on promoting stability, democracy, and economic development in the country. This paper aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the EU's involvement in Kosovo, including the various initiatives and programs it has implemented to support Kosovo's development.
Despite the EU's efforts to promote stability, democracy, and economic development in Kosovo, the country still faces numerous challenges in these areas.
The EU has implemented various initiatives in Kosovo, including those aimed at promoting stability, democracy, and economic development, among others.
However, the effectiveness of these initiatives and their impact on Kosovo's development and stability remains a subject of ongoing debate and analysis. Additionally, while some initiatives have shown promising results, others have faced criticism for their limited impact or implementation challenges.
• The Stabilisation and Association Agreement (SAA): The SAA is a framework agreement between the EU and Kosovo that aims to promote political, economic, and social cooperation between the two parties. It was signed in 2015 and entered into force in 2016. The SAA includes provisions on trade, customs, competition, public procurement, and other areas, as well as commitments by Kosovo to undertake reforms in various sectors.
• The Instrument for Pre-Accession Assistance (IPA): The IPA is a financial instrument designed to support reforms in countries that are candidates or potential candidates for EU membership. Kosovo has been a beneficiary of IPA funding since 2007, with funds allocated to areas such as governance and public administration, education and employment, and justice and home affairs.
• The European Union Rule of Law Mission in Kosovo (EULEX): EULEX is a civilian mission established by the EU in 2008 to support the development of an independent judiciary and the fight against corruption and organized crime in Kosovo. EULEX's mandate includes monitoring and mentoring of Kosovo's justice institutions, as well as providing support for investigations and prosecutions of serious crimes.
• The EU Dialogue for Normalisation of Relations between Kosovo and Serbia: This dialogue was launched in 2011 with the aim of resolving outstanding issues between Kosovo and Serbia, including the status of Serb-majority areas in northern Kosovo. The dialogue is facilitated by the EU and has resulted in several agreements, including the Brussels Agreement in 2013, which established the basis for normalizing relations between the two countries.

Positive aspects of the EU's Involvement in kosovo
One of the positive aspects of the EU's involvement in Kosovo has been its support for the development of the country's institutions. The EU has provided extensive financial and technical assistance to help Kosovo build its institutions and strengthen its economy. For example, the EU has funded a number of projects in Kosovo, including road construction, energy infrastructure, and waste management.
The EU has also established programs to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Kosovo, which have helped to create jobs and promote economic growth.
Another positive aspect of the EU's involvement in Kosovo has been its support for political stability and democracy. The EU has supported Kosovo's democratic institutions, including the parliament, the government, and the electoral process. The EU has provided extensive support to the Kosovo government to help it implement necessary reforms and strengthen its democratic institutions. The EU has also played a key role in supporting the normalization of relations between Kosovo and Serbia, which has been a major challenge for both countries.
According to a report by the European External Action Service (EEAS, 2018), the EU has provided substantial financial and technical assistance to Kosovo to help it build and strengthen its institutions, including its justice system and public administration. The EU has also funded a number of infrastructure projects in Kosovo, such as the construction of the Kosovo Motorway, which has helped to improve transportation and stimulate economic growth (European Commission, 2020a).
In terms of support for political stability and democracy, the EU has established a number of programs aimed at strengthening democratic institutions and promoting good governance in Kosovo. For example, the EU's Instrument for Pre-Accession Assistance (IPA) has provided funding to support the rule of law and the fight against corruption in Kosovo (EEAS, 2018). The EU has also played a key role in supporting the normalization of relations between Kosovo and Serbia through the EU-facilitated dialogue process (European External Action Service, 2021). Furthermore, the EU has established programs to support SMEs in Kosovo, which have helped to create jobs and promote economic growth (European Commission, 2020a).
According to a study by Arifi and Maxhuni (Arifi & Maxhuni, 2019), the EU's support for SMEs in Kosovo has been successful in promoting economic growth and reducing unemployment in the country.

Practical Examples of the EU's Involvement in Kosovo
One practical example of the EU's involvement in Kosovo is the European Union Rule of Law Mission in Kosovo (EULEX). EULEX was established in 2008 to support the development of the rule of law in Kosovo, including the judiciary and law enforcement institutions. It has been one of the largest civilian missions ever deployed by the EU and has played a crucial role in supporting Kosovo's justice system.
Another practical example of the EU's involvement in Kosovo is the European Partnership for Education program. This program aims to improve the quality of education in Kosovo by providing financial and technical assistance to support education reforms. The program has helped to improve access to education for children in Kosovo and has helped to strengthen the education system in the country.
In terms of the EU's involvement in supporting the development of the rule of law in Kosovo, the European Union Rule of Law Mission in Kosovo (EULEX) has been a key practical example (European Union External Action, 2020). EULEX has played a crucial role in supporting Kosovo's justice system, including the judiciary and law enforcement institutions (European Union External Action, 2020).
Another practical example of the EU's involvement in Kosovo is the European Partnership for Education program, which has aimed to improve the quality of education in Kosovo by providing financial and technical assistance to support education reforms (European Commission, 2020a). The program has helped to improve access to education for children in Kosovo and has helped to strengthen the education system in the country (European Commission, 2020a).
The EU's involvement in Kosovo is the construction of the Kosovo Motorway, which is part of the Trans-European Transport Network. The EU provided significant financial support for the construction of this motorway, which has helped to improve Kosovo's infrastructure and create jobs. The motorway has also helped to improve trade and economic ties between Kosovo and neighboring countries. Another practical example of the EU's involvement in Kosovo is the European Partnership for Education program. This program aims to improve the quality of education in Kosovo by providing financial and technical assistance to support education reforms. The program has helped to improve access to education for children in Kosovo and has helped to strengthen the education system in the country.
The EU's involvement in Kosovo has been extensive and has had a significant impact on the country's development. The EU has played a crucial role in promoting stability, democracy, and economic development in Kosovo. The EU's involvement in Kosovo has included a wide range of initiatives and programs, including support for the justice system, economic development, and political stability. Practical examples of the EU's involvement in Kosovo include the construction of the Kosovo Motorway and the European Partnership for Education program.
The EU's involvement in Kosovo is an important example of the EU's commitment to promoting peace, stability, and prosperity in the Western Balkans. The EU's involvement in Kosovo has been guided by a range of priorities, including promoting stability, strengthening democracy, and encouraging economic growth. One of the key successes of the EU's engagement with Kosovo has been the support provided for the country's state-building efforts (Radeljić & Antonić, 2019). The EU has played a significant role in promoting the rule of law in Kosovo, supporting the development of institutions such as the police and the judiciary (Radeljić & Antonić, 2019). The EU has also provided significant financial support for Kosovo, helping to fund the country's public services, infrastructure, and private sector development.
However, the EU's approach to Kosovo has not been without challenges. One of the main challenges has been the lack of consistency and coordination among EU member states. Different member states have had different priorities and interests in relation to Kosovo, which has led to a fragmented approach to the country. This has resulted in a lack of clarity in the EU's policies towards Kosovo, which has made it difficult for Kosovo to fully understand what the EU expects from it. Another challenge of the EU's involvement in Kosovo has been the prioritization of stability over democracy (Beqiri & Demaj, 2019). This has led to a focus on maintaining the status quo, rather than pushing for more fundamental reforms. This has been particularly evident in the EU's approach towards the issue of Kosovo's status, which has remained unresolved for many years.
While the EU has supported Kosovo's independence, it has not actively pushed for recognition from those countries that have not yet recognized Kosovo's sovereignty. This has left Kosovo in a state of limbo, with its status as an independent country still disputed by some. The limited impact of the EU's involvement in Kosovo has also been a cause for concern. While the EU has provided significant financial assistance to Kosovo, this has not always translated into tangible improvements in people's lives. Kosovo remains one of the poorest countries in Europe, with high unemployment people.
While the EU has provided significant support to Kosovo over the years, its approach has not been without criticism. One of the main criticisms of the EU's involvement in Kosovo has been the lack of consistency and coordination among EU member states. This has led to a fragmented approach, with different member states having different priorities and interests in relation to Kosovo. This has resulted in a lack of clarity in the EU's policies towards Kosovo, which has made it difficult for Kosovo to fully understand what the EU expects from it. This has also made it difficult for the EU to achieve its objectives in Kosovo, as different member states have pursued different strategies in their relations with the country.
Another criticism of the EU's approach towards Kosovo is that it has often prioritized stability over democracy. This has led to a focus on maintaining the status quo, rather than pushing for more fundamental reforms. This has been particularly evident in the EU's approach towards the issue of Kosovo's status, which has remained unresolved for many years. While the EU has supported Kosovo's independence, it has not actively pushed for recognition from those countries that have not yet recognized Kosovo's sovereignty. This has left Kosovo in a state of limbo, with its status as an independent country still disputed by some.
Furthermore, the EU's involvement in Kosovo has been criticized for its limited impact on the ground. While the EU has provided significant financial assistance to Kosovo, this has not always translated into tangible improvements in people's lives. Kosovo remains one of the poorest countries in Europe, with high levels of unemployment and poverty. While the EU has supported economic reforms, these have not yet led to the creation of sustainable jobs and growth. The EU's involvement in Kosovo's political development has also been criticized for its lack of engagement with local civil society and grassroots movements. This has led to a sense of disconnect between the EU and the people of Kosovo, which has made it difficult for the EU to fully understand the needs and aspirations of the country.
In light of these criticisms, it is clear that the EU's involvement in Kosovo needs to be more strategic and coordinated. The EU needs to work more closely with its member states to ensure a more coherent and consistent approach towards Kosovo. This should involve greater engagement with local civil society and grassroots movements, to ensure that the EU's policies are more closely aligned with the needs and aspirations of the people of Kosovo. The EU also needs to prioritize democracy over stability, and to actively push for more fundamental reforms in the country. This may involve taking a more proactive role in resolving the issue of Kosovo's status, and pushing for recognition from those countries that have not yet recognized Kosovo's sovereignty. By doing so, the EU can help to shape a more positive political future for Kosovo, and to ensure that the country is able to fully realize its potential as a democratic and prosperous nation.
The special representative has played a crucial role in mediating between Kosovo and Serbia, particularly in the implementation of agreements reached between the two sides, but the success of this mediation has been limited by factors beyond the EU's control, including political obstacles and resistance to compromise from both sides (Beqiri & Demaj, 2019).
Kosovo and the European Union (EU) have signed a series of agreements over the years that have aimed to deepen Kosovo's political and economic ties with the EU. These agreements have been significant for Kosovo's political future, as they have helped to solidify Kosovo's place in the European community and have provided a framework for cooperation and partnership between Kosovo and the EU.

Negative aspects of the EU's Involvement in Kosovo
One of the negative aspects of the EU's involvement in Kosovo has been the slow progress in implementing necessary reforms. Despite significant financial and technical assistance from the EU, Kosovo still faces major challenges in areas such as corruption, organized crime, and human rights. While the EU has provided support for the development of Kosovo's institutions, progress has been slow, and there is still a long way to go to achieve the necessary reforms.
Another negative aspect of the EU's involvement in Kosovo has been the lack of progress in resolving the issue of Kosovo's independence. While the majority of EU member states recognize Kosovo's independence, some member states, such as Spain and Slovakia, do not. This lack of consensus within the EU has hindered progress in resolving the issue of Kosovo's independence and has made it difficult for the EU to play a more active role in promoting stability in the region. The EU has been a major contributor to Kosovo's post-war reconstruction and development. It has provided extensive financial and technical assistance to help Kosovo build its institutions and strengthen its economy. One of the most notable examples of the EU's involvement in Kosovo is the European Union Rule of Law Mission in Kosovo (EULEX). EULEX was established in 2008 to support the development of the rule of law in Kosovo, including the judiciary and law enforcement institutions. It has been one of the largest civilian missions ever deployed by the EU and has played a crucial role in supporting Kosovo's justice system.
The EU has also been instrumental in promoting economic development in Kosovo. It has provided significant financial assistance to help Kosovo build its infrastructure and create jobs. The EU has funded a number of projects in Kosovo, including road construction, energy infrastructure, and waste management. The EU has also established a number of programs to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in Kosovo, including the European Partnership for SMEs program, which aims to provide financial and technical assistance to help SMEs grow and create jobs. The EU has also been involved in promoting political stability and democracy in Kosovo. It has supported Kosovo's democratic institutions, including the parliament, the government, and the electoral process.
The EU has provided extensive support to the Kosovo government to help it implement necessary reforms and strengthen its democratic institutions. The EU has also played a key role in supporting the normalization of relations between Kosovo and Serbia, which has been a major challenge for both countries. The slow progress in implementing necessary reforms despite significant financial and technical assistance from the EU is mentioned in a report by the European Court of Auditors (2019). The report also highlights the need for better coordination among EU institutions and member states to ensure more effective assistance to Kosovo in implementing reforms.
The challenges Kosovo faces in areas such as corruption, organized crime, and human rights are mentioned in the Kosovo Progress Report (European Commission, 2020), published by the European Commission. The report states that Kosovo needs to make more progress in these areas to fulfill the criteria for closer ties with the EU. The lack of consensus within the EU on Kosovo's independence is mentioned in an article by Euractiv (Euroativ, 2021). The article highlights that the lack of unanimity among EU member states on this issue has prevented the EU from having a more active role in promoting stability in the region.
The EU's support for economic development in Kosovo is mentioned in a report by the European Commission (2020) on the implementation of the European Neighborhood Policy in Kosovo. The report highlights the EU's funding of various infrastructure projects and programs to support SMEs in Kosovo.
The EU's support for promoting political stability and democracy in Kosovo is mentioned in a report by the European Parliament (2021) on the implementation of the EU-Kosovo Stabilization and Association Agreement. The report emphasizes the importance of the EU's support for Kosovo's democratic institutions and the normalization of relations between Kosovo and Serbia.

A Look at the Important Agreements between Kosovo and the European Union for Political and Economic Integration
Kosovo's relationship with the European Union (EU) has been shaped by a series of agreements that have set out the conditions for the country's integration into the EU's political and economic structures. These agreements have covered a range of areas, including trade, the rule of law, human rights, and democratic governance, among others.
In this article, we will explore some of the key agreements between Kosovo and the EU, including the Stabilization and Association Agreement, the Visa Liberalization Agreement, the Interim Agreement on Trade and Trade-Related Issues, the Agreement on the Participation of Kosovo in European Programs, and the Framework Agreement for the Provision of Emergency Support to Kosovo.
These agreements have helped to facilitate greater people-to-people contact and have strengthened ties between Kosovo and the EU, paving the way for Kosovo's eventual accession to the EU.
Here are some of the key agreements between Kosovo and the EU: • Stabilization and Association Agreement (SAA) The SAA is the main framework for relations between the EU and Kosovo. The agreement was signed in 2015 and entered into force in 2016. It sets out the political and economic conditions for Kosovo's eventual accession to the EU, and provides for the gradual integration of Kosovo into the EU's single market. The SAA includes provisions on trade, the rule of law, human rights, and democratic governance, among other areas.
• Visa Liberalization Agreement In 2010. On 14 December 2010, the Council reaffirmed that Kosovo would benefit from the perspective of eventual visa liberalisation once all conditions are met; took note of Kosovo's progress in the fields of readmission and reintegration; and took note of the Commission's intention to launch a visa liberalisation dialogue once all conditions are met and the Commission's intention, before launching such a dialogue, to share its assessment with the Council of the fulfilment of such conditions. This agreement was significant for Kosovo, as it has helped to facilitate greater people-to-people contact and has strengthened ties between Kosovo and the EU. • Framework Agreement for the Provision of Emergency Support to Kosovo. The Framework Agreement for the Provision of Emergency Support to Kosovo was signed in 2017 and aims to improve Kosovo's preparedness for natural disasters and emergencies. The agreement provides for the EU to provide financial and technical assistance to Kosovo in the event of a disaster or emergency.
These agreements have had a significant impact on Kosovo's political future, as they have helped to deepen Kosovo's ties with the EU and have provided a framework for cooperation and partnership between Kosovo and the EU. The SAA, in particular, is seen as a key step towards Kosovo's eventual accession to the EU, and has helped to ensure that Kosovo meets the political and economic conditions for membership. The analysis shows that the SAA constitutes a difficult, yet necessary, step in the EU's relations with the Western Balkans (Irion, 2014).
The visa liberalization agreement has also been significant, as it has helped to strengthen people-to-people contacts between Kosovo and the EU and has facilitated greater economic and cultural exchange. Overall, these agreements have provided a framework for Kosovo's integration into the European community and have helped to solidify Kosovo's place in Europe.
However, there are also challenges and limitations to these agreements. Some critics argue that the agreements have not gone far enough in addressing some of the key challenges facing Kosovo, such as corruption, organized crime, and weak rule of law. Others have raised concerns about the impact of these agreements on Kosovo's economic and political sovereignty. As Kosovo continues to deepen its ties with the EU, it will be important to address these challenges and to ensure that Kosovo's interests are protected and promoted in the context of its partnership with the EU.
The findings of this paper highlight the EU's crucial role in shaping Kosovo's political future and the significant impact of non-recognition by five EU member states on Kosovo's accession process. The EU's engagement with Kosovo has been a critical driver of Kosovo's democratization and European integration process, with the Stabilization and Association Agreement (SAA) signed in 2015 serving as an important milestone in this regard. However, the non-recognition of Kosovo by five EU member states has significant implications for the country's path towards EU accession. The lack of recognition creates significant obstacles to Kosovo's participation in EU programs and initiatives, and also affects Kosovo's international status and relations with its neighbors.
The role of the European Union in shaping Kosovo's political future cannot be understated. Since the establishment of the EU's rule of law mission in Kosovo in 2008, the EU has been heavily involved in the country's political and economic development. The EU has been instrumental in facilitating dialogue between Kosovo and Serbia, as well as providing financial assistance to Kosovo's government and civil society. In Serbia, the threat of negative conditionality was largely ineffective because it failed to shift the domestic political balance in favour of reformers, while in Kosovo, positive conditionality provided greater leverage for the EU to promote political and economic reforms (Squires & Schimmelfennig, 2018).
One of the major successes of the EU's involvement in Kosovo has been the facilitation of dialogue between Kosovo and Serbia. The Brussels Agreement, which was signed in 2013, was a major breakthrough in the normalization of relations between the two countries. The agreement was facilitated by the EU and required both Kosovo and Serbia to make significant concessions. Kosovo agreed to form an association of Serb-majority municipalities, while Serbia agreed to stop its efforts to block Kosovo's accession to international organizations. The implementation of the agreement has been challenging, but the fact that the dialogue has continued and progress has been made is a testament to the EU's role in facilitating the process. By prioritizing stability over democracy, the EU's engagement with Kosovo has focused primarily on building strong institutions and enhancing the rule of law, but has failed to address underlying political tensions and inequalities that threaten to undermine the country's democratic development (Krasniqi & Leuninger, 2018).
However, the EU's involvement in Kosovo has not been without its challenges. One of the biggest challenges has been the issue of corruption and rule of law. Despite the EU's significant investment in strengthening Kosovo's justice system, corruption remains a major problem. The EU has been criticized for not doing enough to tackle corruption and for failing to hold Kosovo's political elites accountable. The lack of progress on this issue has had a negative impact on Kosovo's prospects for EU membership. However, the EU's dilemma is that it faces the Catch-22 of legitimizing the power of incumbents, while trying to curtail their control of state institutions (Štiks & Igor, 2017). An issue that arises in relation to the EU's political conditionality in the Balkans is the degree to which it is seen to be fully legitimate by the target countries (Keukeleire & Šipulová, 2007).
Another challenge has been the issue of the five EU member states that do not recognize Kosovo's independence: Cyprus, Greece, Romania, Slovakia, and Spain. These countries have been a major obstacle to Kosovo's accession to the EU. They have been reluctant to recognize Kosovo as an independent state and have used their veto power to block Kosovo's membership in international organizations. This has had a significant impact on Kosovo's political future, as it has hindered the country's ability to fully integrate into the international community.
In conclusion, the EU has played a crucial role in shaping Kosovo's political future, but there are still many challenges that need to be addressed. The EU must continue to support the normalization of relations between Kosovo and Serbia and to push for the implementation of the Brussels Agreement. It must also do more to address the issue of corruption and rule of law in Kosovo.
Finally, the EU must find a way to address the concerns of the five member states that do not recognize Kosovo's independence, in order to ensure that Kosovo has a path towards EU membership. Only then can we truly see hope in Kosovo's accession to the EU and a brighter future for the country.

Conclusions and recommendations
In conclusion, this paper argues that the EU's engagement with Kosovo has been a critical driver of the country's political and economic development, and that the non-recognition of Kosovo by five EU member states poses significant challenges to Kosovo's European integration process. To address these challenges, the EU needs to take a more proactive role in engaging with these member states to encourage recognition of Kosovo's independence.
The Western Balkans has been a challenging region for the international community to engage with since the collapse of Yugoslavia. Kosovo, in particular, has faced significant challenges in building a stable and democratic political system since its declaration of independence in 2008. The European Union (EU) has played a key role in the region, supporting democratic reforms and promoting regional cooperation. However, the EU's influence in the region has been uneven, with some states receiving more attention and support than others.
Assessing the EU's role in shaping Kosovo's political future, we find that the EU has provided crucial support for democratic reforms and promoted regional cooperation. The EU has also been instrumental in the normalization of relations between Kosovo and Serbia, encouraging both sides to work towards a peaceful settlement. However, the EU's influence in Kosovo has not been equal to that of other states in the region, and this raises important questions about the EU's approach to engagement with the Western Balkans.
To achieve lasting stability and democratic development in the Western Balkans, the EU needs to continue to play an active role in the region, supporting political reforms and promoting economic development. Additionally, the EU should work towards ensuring that all states in the region are treated equally and receive the support they need to build stable and democratic political systems. The EU's partnership with the Western Balkans is primarily driven by technocratic and economic rationalities, but is also characterized by significant power asymmetries.
The EU's involvement in Kosovo has had both positive and negative aspects. While the EU has played a crucial role in promoting stability, democracy, and economic development in Kosovo, progress has been slow, and there is still a long way to go to achieve necessary reforms.
Overall, the EU's involvement in Kosovo is an important example of the EU's commitment to promoting peace, stability, and prosperity in the Western Balkans, but there is still work to be done. The arguments presented in the paper are centered on the role of the European Union (EU) in shaping the political future of Kosovo. The paper critically analyzes the EU's involvement in Kosovo's political affairs, examining the successes, challenges, and implications of its interventions for Kosovo-Serbia relations.
The paper highlights that the EU has played a crucial role in Kosovo's political development, particularly in the post-conflict period. Through its enlargement policy, the EU has sought to promote democratic governance, respect for human rights, and the rule of law in Kosovo. This has included providing technical assistance, financial aid, and political support to Kosovo's government and civil society organizations.
However, the paper also acknowledges the limitations and challenges of the EU's involvement in Kosovo. The paper argues that the EU's efforts to promote democratization in Kosovo have been hampered by the lack of genuine political will among Kosovo's elites and the persistence of nationalist sentiments.
Moreover, the paper discusses the impact of the five EU member states that do not recognize Kosovo's independence, namely Cyprus, Greece, Romania, Slovakia, and Spain, on Kosovo's political future. The paper argues that their stance has hindered Kosovo's EU integration prospects and reinforced nationalist rhetoric in Kosovo. However, the paper also highlights the potential for the EU to play a constructive role in promoting reconciliation between Kosovo and Serbia, which could ultimately pave the way for Kosovo's EU accession.
The paper presents a nuanced analysis of the EU's role in shaping Kosovo's political future, recognizing both its successes and limitations, as well as the impact of external and internal factors on Kosovo's political development.
Overall, the future of the Western Balkans remains uncertain, and there is much work to be done to address the region's challenges. However, the EU has an important role to play in supporting the region's democratic development and promoting regional cooperation. With continued engagement and support, there is hope that the Western Balkans can overcome its challenges and achieve lasting stability and prosperity.

Disclosure statement
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Citation information
Cite this article as: The Role of the EU in Shaping Kosovo's Political Future: A Critical Analysis, Burim Mexhuani, Cogent Social Sciences (2023), 9: 2209983.