Some ambassadors complete their mission in Kosovo and move on to new chapters in their lives.
Then there is Robert Bosch, former Dutch ambassador to Kosovo, who continues to follow every development in the country closely.
Bosch stays updated on events in Kosovo, especially the recent political deadlock. He even participated in the protest of Kosovo Albanians in The Hague, which called for the release of former KLA leaders.
In a statement to IndeksOnline, Bosch said the European Union can no longer be seen as neutral toward Kosovo.
“International reactions were wrong from the start. The fact that Kosovo did not meet the demands of the Association became the main point, while Serbia’s repeated violations of almost all agreements were clearly considered irrelevant. The fact that, in particular, the failure to implement the Ohrid Agreement had no consequences for Serbia shows that the EU can no longer be viewed as neutral. Serbia’s satisfaction remains a priority,” Bosch stated.
Asked about how embassies and their representatives perceive the political atmosphere in Kosovo, Bosch said:
“As I mentioned regarding the EU, I think embassies know better, but apparently they are not being heard. Since I am no longer there, these are only my speculations.”
Bosch acknowledges that Kosovo has made significant progress on its path toward EU integration, particularly in the judicial sector and implementation of laws, but he notes that political progress is still lacking.
“As far as I can judge, Kosovo has made considerable progress in the judicial sphere, in implementing laws and regulations. Politically, however, it has not.”
Although elections were held in February, Kosovo still lacks a functioning government. Bosch sees this failure to form a cabinet and advance development as a damage to Kosovo’s international image.
“The slow pace of forming the government has also harmed Kosovo’s image, but all political parties must share the blame. When there is no clear majority, compromises are necessary,” he said.
A week ago, Kosovo was also discussed at the NATO Security Council, including the need to close the UNMIK mission, as its objectives in Kosovo have been fulfilled.
For Bosch, this represents an additional step forward.
“Of course, this was very good for Kosovo; in this area, further progress is evident,” he concluded.
