The German Embassy in Pristina has identified three violations by Serbia of the Basic Agreement, which was agreed upon with Kosovo during the Brussels dialogue.
The German Embassy in Pristina stated that Serbia breached its obligations by declaring Kosovo a zone of special protection, adopting legislation on criminal offenses, and lobbying against Kosovo’s membership in international organizations, according to Koha.
What Does the Agreement Entail?
The initial document, now widely referred to as the Basic Agreement, requires the parties to foster normal neighborly relations.
The agreement obliges both sides to respect each other’s territorial integrity and sovereignty.
It also mandates mutual recognition of relevant documents and national symbols, including passports, diplomas, vehicle license plates, and customs stamps.
For Kosovo authorities, this provision implies Serbia’s de facto recognition of Kosovo’s statehood.
Key Provisions Drawing Attention
The annex highlights Article 7 of the Basic Agreement.
This article pertains to ensuring an appropriate level of self-management for the Serbian community in Kosovo, in accordance with prior agreements reached during the dialogue.
Some interpret this as a reference to the establishment of the Association of Serb-Majority Municipalities in Kosovo.
Kosovo and Serbia reached agreements on this Association in 2013 and later in 2015 on its foundational principles.
However, in 2015, Kosovo’s Constitutional Court found the agreement to be partially incompatible with the Constitution.
While Serbia insists on the implementation of the agreements, Kosovo’s government has opposed the creation of a mono-ethnic association.
Months ago, Kosovo’s Prime Minister, Albin Kurti, proposed the Croatian model as a potential solution for the Serbian minority.
