Kosovo Authorities Target Serbia-Linked Offices Before Elections

Kosovo authorities raided Belgrade-linked offices in ethnic Serb areas, prompting criticism from Serbia. This action is part of efforts to dismantle Serbia’s parallel political system in Kosovo ahead of upcoming parliamentary elections. The move underscores rising tensions between the two nations with Kosovo aiming to establish its sovereignty.

On Wednesday, Kosovo authorities conducted raids on 10 local government offices affiliated with Belgrade in areas predominantly inhabited by ethnic Serbs. This action, described by Serbia as a “dangerous escalation,” occurs just weeks before parliamentary elections in Kosovo. These operations are part of ongoing efforts to dismantle the so-called parallel system of social services and political offices supported by Serbia within Kosovo.

The targeted offices have historically served as a symbolic representation of Serbia’s political presence in Kosovo, despite providing no real services. Interior Minister Xhelal Svecla announced via Facebook that this marks the end of Serbia’s parallel institutions in Kosovo. The operation also led to the closure of Serbian post offices and banks.

Minister Svecla emphasized Kosovo’s commitment to maintaining the Constitution and the rule of law, rejecting any “parallelism” from Serbia. In response, Serbian officials criticized the closures, with Foreign Minister Marko Djuric labeling the actions as hostile attempts to erode the rights and identity of Serbs living in Kosovo.

The current tensions between Kosovo and Serbia stem from a longstanding conflict dating back to the late 1990s and continue to affect political dynamics in the region. Kosovo declared independence from Serbia in 2008, a move that Serbia has yet to accept. With a majority ethnic Albanian population in Kosovo, certain northern areas still have significant ethnic Serb communities. The upcoming parliamentary elections have intensified these tensions, especially as Kosovo’s government aims to eliminate Serbian entities operating within its territory.

The raids on Belgrade-linked offices in Kosovo represent a significant step by local authorities to eliminate Serbia’s hold over its institutions. This action has sparked an outcry from Serbia, further escalating the already tense relationship between the two nations. As Kosovo prepares for parliamentary elections, these events underscore the complexities of ethnic relations and the ongoing struggle for sovereignty in the region.

Original Source: www.barrons.com