The Acting Minister for Communities and Returns, Nenad Rašić, stated that the integration of Serbian health and education institutions into Kosovo’s system is a process that will inevitably take place, but it must be carried out through consultation and consensus to avoid negative consequences for the Serb community.
In an interview with Radio Free Europe, Rašić stressed that this process cannot be imposed unilaterally and requires the inclusion of the Serbian List, the largest political party representing Serbs in Kosovo, despite its clear opposition to such integration.
“They will be invited. If I am part of the process – and I am certain I will be – then if they refuse cooperation, the responsibility will be theirs,” Rašić emphasized.
The Role of an Association-Like Mechanism
Rašić argued that some form of Association of Serb-majority municipalities remains necessary, as it would provide initial guarantees for job security and social stability. He explained that without such safeguards, integration could create deep uncertainty among the Serbian community, undermining trust in the process.
“An Association would ensure that integration does not leave people without jobs or security. It would provide the stability needed for this transition,” he said.
Political Context and the Assembly’s Deadlock
Speaking on the broader political situation, Rašić referred to the current deadlock surrounding the constitution of Kosovo’s Assembly, which remains unresolved as the Constitutional Court’s temporary measure is set to expire.
On his own political role, Rašić dismissed speculation about seeking a leadership post in the Assembly, stating:
“Honestly, I would not want to run for deputy speaker.”
His comments come at a sensitive time, as Kosovo faces not only institutional uncertainty but also the complex challenge of integrating parallel Serbian structures into the state system while ensuring the rights and security of minority communities.
