Week in Review: Playing with Fireworks and Fire

Back from the Brink

EU rule of law mission in Kosovo, EULEX, Police officers patrol the area near the border crossing between Kosovo and Serbia in Jarinje, Kosovo, September 28, 2021. Photo: EPA-EFE/VALDRIN XHEMAJ

'Sticker diplomacy' appears to have resolved the latest standoff between Kosovo and Serbia, at least for the time being, while a more permanent solution is sought. Yet for a good ten days, much of the region watched nervously the tense standoff in north Kosovo between Kosovo and Serbia, and between Kosovo's special police units and local Serbs, wondering if it would blow up in everyone's face.

The crisis has been averted, for now. In our reporting, we look at the history of border and trade disputes between Kosovo and Serbia over the last 15 years, as well as bringing reports regarding developments on the ground in the north.

Read more: Timeline: 15 Years of Kosovo-Serbia Border and Trade Disputes (September 30, 2021)
Read more: Protesters and Police Maintain Uneasy Stand-off at Kosovo Border (September 29, 2021)
Read more: Ordinary Serbs, Albanians Pay Price of Serbia-Kosovo Vehicle Row (September 28, 2021)

Key Test

Illustration. Kosovo citizen preparing to vote. Photo: BIRN/Urim Krasniqi

After a tense ten days, Kosovo is heading towards local polls due on October 17. Campaigning has already begun in earnest, though much of it is being conducted online due to an escalating COVID-19 case count.

The elections have more than a local value. After Kosovo's ruling Vetevendosja achieved an unprecedented absolute majority in the February 2021 Parliamentary elections, local polls will be a key test of popular support for the movement half a year into power. Limited results since...