A Crucial Test for Kurti, Ties with Serbia, and Kosovo's Future

A Test for Kurti and Ties with Serbia

Kosovo's parliamentary election on February 14th marks a crucial test for Prime Minister Albin Kurti, whose party seeks to retain power after a landslide victory four years ago. This election is the first since Kosovo's 2008 independence where the parliament has completed a full term.

The vote will determine who leads Kosovo in normalizing ties with Serbia, with stalled talks brokered by the U.S. and EU not a major campaign focus. Around 2 million voters will choose from nearly 600 candidates representing 27 parties.

Kurti's Vetevendosje! party is the frontrunner but unlikely to win a majority, potentially leading to alliances with other parties. All parties have made big promises on improving public services and fighting poverty, but details on funding remain unclear.

Kosovo remains one of Europe's poorest countries, and Kurti has faced criticism from Western powers over actions like banning the Serbian dinar. The EU has suspended some funding and the U.S. has frozen aid, raising concerns about stability.

With tensions high, a team of international observers will monitor the vote. The outcome will have a significant impact on Kosovo's future, particularly its relationship with Serbia and its path towards economic development.