The European Commission intends to further lift financial sanctions against Kosovo if, following the second round of local elections, a regular and peaceful transfer of governance is achieved in the north and de-escalation remains stable. This is stated in the draft Progress Report on Kosovo, which the European Commission is expected to publish on November 4.
According to diplomatic sources, this means a smooth handover of authority and assumption of duties by the newly elected mayors in the northern municipalities.
The Progress Report — the most important document compiled by the European Commission for enlargement countries — notes that Kosovo has not made significant progress. On the contrary, it highlights limited or partial advancement in most areas, assessments generally considered low.
Regarding the situation in the north, the report criticizes the actions of Kosovo’s authorities, claiming they were in contradiction with the country’s obligations toward the European Union and the normalization process with Serbia, according to RTK.
The document further finds that the dialogue between Kosovo and Serbia has been obstructed by the political situation in both countries. It specifically mentions that Serbia has not taken any action against those responsible for the terrorist attack in Banjska — an event that marked one of the most serious escalations in security.
In the political chapter, the draft observes that the past year has been marked by deep internal political divisions and a confrontational campaign ahead of general elections. It also notes that this situation has been followed by political deadlock, stemming from the lack of will or inability of political parties to find a solution toward forming new institutions.
Kosovo is also criticized in the area of freedom of expression, where, according to the draft, no progress has been recorded. The report mentions ongoing challenges regarding media ownership transparency, financial sustainability, and continued attacks on journalists — including obstruction of their work and verbal assaults by senior government officials.
