German diplomat Dirk Schübel has officially taken up his new post as the European Union’s Special Representative for Kosovo and Head of the EU Office in Pristina, stepping into the role at a critical moment for the country’s institutions.
Schübel, who began his two-year mandate on September 1, succeeds Aivo Orav. The European Council appointed him with a mandate focused on supporting a stable, democratic and multi-ethnic Kosovo, advancing its European perspective and contributing to regional stability and the Belgrade–Pristina dialogue.
In his first message from Pristina, Schübel urged Kosovo’s political leaders to move quickly toward establishing fully functioning institutions.
“Kosovo needs functional institutions” capable of implementing reforms and making full use of the EU’s Growth Plan and upcoming IPA funding, Schübel said.
He stressed that political responsibility, effective institutions and a clear commitment to reforms will be essential if Kosovo is to take advantage of the opportunities currently available.
“A window of opportunity”
Schübel described the current period as an important “window of opportunity” for Kosovo, emphasizing that the EU stands ready to engage and provide support—but that functioning institutions are necessary to turn that support into concrete results.
He said he looks forward to working with Kosovo’s institutions, political actors, civil society, media and all communities to support the country’s progress toward EU integration.
The new EU envoy also reaffirmed support for Kosovo’s European future, calling for EU integration to become a priority that goes beyond political divisions.
Dialogue with Serbia remains on the agenda
Schübel also highlighted the importance of Kosovo’s constructive participation in the EU-facilitated Belgrade–Pristina dialogue and progress toward normalization of relations.
He said he would work closely with EU Special Representative for the Dialogue, Peter Sørensen, on this issue.
The EU’s mandate for Schübel also explicitly includes supporting the Belgrade–Pristina dialogue, strengthening regional stability and promoting the rule of law, human rights and minority protection in Kosovo.
EU: More than €3.7 billion in support
Schübel emphasized that the EU will continue standing alongside Kosovo, building on more than 25 years of support since 1999.
According to the EU Office, the bloc has provided Kosovo with more than €3.7 billion in assistance, covering areas ranging from reconstruction and institution-building to the rule of law, economic development and opportunities for young people.
Schübel said the goal now is to turn Kosovo’s European aspirations into tangible progress for its citizens.
He will be supported in his work by newly appointed Deputy Head of the EU Office in Kosovo, Alexis Hupin, and the wider EU team in Pristina.
