The European Union’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas, is set to decide between two candidates for the role of EU Special Representative for the Kosovo-Serbia Dialogue. The two contenders are Danish diplomat Peter Sørensen and Finland’s former Foreign Minister Pekka Haavisto, according to Radio Free Europe sources.
The application deadline for the position ended last Friday, and both candidates are recognized for their experience and deep understanding of the Western Balkans.
Key Details of the Selection Process
EU spokesperson Annita Hipper confirmed that the selection process is ongoing and that Miroslav Lajčák’s term officially ends at the end of January. To avoid a vacuum, the new envoy is expected to be appointed before then.
Sources in Brussels suggest both candidates are qualified, but there are distinct differences in their profiles:
- Pekka Haavisto: A former Finnish foreign minister with significant political experience and a strong supporter of Kosovo’s independence. Haavisto has also worked within the UNMIK structure in Kosovo and holds over 15 years of experience in the Balkans.
- Peter Sørensen: A Danish diplomat with extensive experience in EU structures, including as the EU Special Representative in Bosnia and Herzegovina and Head of the EU Delegation in Skopje. Sørensen is seen as a suitable candidate for technical mediation in the dialogue.
If Kallas prioritizes political weight, Haavisto might take the lead. However, Sørensen could be favored for his technical expertise if Kallas opts for a more hands-on political role herself.
Diplomatic Insights on the Candidates
Haavisto has been a strong advocate for EU enlargement and has criticized Serbia’s lobbying against Kosovo’s independence while supporting dialogue processes. Sørensen, on the other hand, has focused on diplomacy and mediation within EU institutions and across the Western Balkans.
The Role of the Special Envoy
The incoming envoy will focus exclusively on facilitating the Kosovo-Serbia Dialogue, a process ongoing for over 13 years. Unlike Lajčák, the new representative is unlikely to handle broader regional matters.
The EU maintains that all agreements reached between Kosovo and Serbia must be implemented as part of their obligations to advance in European integration. This stance will remain unchanged regardless of who takes on the role.
