The European Union has warned that delays in making Kosovo’s institutions fully functional could put the country’s access to funding under the Western Balkans Growth Plan at risk.
In a response to RTV21, a European Commission spokesperson said that only effective cross-party dialogue and a shared objective would enable Kosovo to pursue common goals and implement the required reforms.
The EU warning comes as Kosovo faces an institutional deadlock following the failure to constitute the Assembly and elect a new president.
“The EU has repeatedly called on all political actors to ensure institutional stability. It is essential that Kosovo’s institutions be constituted without further delay, in accordance with the constitutional framework and established procedures,” the European Commission spokesperson said.
According to the spokesperson, delays in forming the institutions could hinder important reforms and affect Kosovo’s ability to fully benefit from opportunities offered by the EU, including funding under the Growth Plan.
“Therefore, reaching a swift agreement among political parties on a consensus candidate for president is particularly important. Only effective cross-party dialogue and a shared objective will enable Kosovo to pursue common goals and implement the reforms demanded by its citizens,” the EU said in its response.
Kosovo risks losing part of its funding under the Reform and Growth Facility due to delays in implementing reforms.
Kosovo’s institutions submitted their first request for the disbursement of funds on 15 July 2026, while the European Commission is currently assessing the report on the steps taken as part of the reform process.
However, the political situation and delays in implementing reforms have cast doubt on the funding. Kosovo’s request for the funds relates to steps that were originally due to be completed in December 2024, June 2025 and June 2026.
Meanwhile, at the end of this year, another deadline granted by the EU for 27 reform steps will expire. These measures were initially due to be completed in December 2024 and subsequently in December 2025.
If these steps are not completed, Kosovo risks losing a total of €165.9 million.
Under the Reform Agenda, Kosovo is required to implement a total of 111 measures covering reforms in public administration, the rule of law, the energy sector, digitalisation, private-sector development and education.
