The European Union’s sanctions against Kosovo have not forced its government to change course but have significantly impacted citizens’ well-being. With no clear consensus within the EU on when these measures might be lifted, uncertainty continues, RFE reports.
Twenty months after freezing funds and halting high-level visits, the EU still refuses to remove sanctions, despite persistent calls from Pristina and the European Parliament. The measures, imposed in response to Prime Minister Albin Kurti’s handling of tensions in northern Kosovo, have stalled economic development, affecting projects worth up to €100 million.
Kosovo remains the only Western Balkan country without EU candidate status, further complicating its European integration prospects. While support for EU membership remains strong among Kosovo’s citizens, prolonged sanctions risk straining long-term relations between Pristina and Brussels.