The decision of the Central Election Commission (CEC) not to certify the Serb List (Lista Srpska) and the Democracy Serb Party for the upcoming October 12 local elections has sparked strong international reactions, raising concerns about democratic integrity and minority representation in Kosovo.
The CEC rejected certification with two votes in favor, two against, and seven abstentions, after Vetëvendosje representatives presented documents showing that several candidates of the Serb List allegedly hold positions in Serbia’s parallel structures in Kosovo. Similarly, the Democracy Serb Party, led by Aleksandar Arsenijević – wanted by Kosovo authorities – was also denied certification.
OSCE and QUINT Raise Alarms
The OSCE Mission in Kosovo warned that the exclusion of political actors undermines democratic pluralism and weakens citizens’ trust in institutions, stressing that full participation of all communities is vital for Kosovo’s democratic stability and integrity.
The QUINT states – France, Germany, Italy, the UK, the US, and the EU Office – echoed these concerns, saying the move limits fair political competition and erodes the credibility of Kosovo’s institutions.
“Excluding political actors undermines democratic pluralism, weakens trust in institutions, and reduces opportunities for all communities to be fairly represented,” their joint statement read.
They urged Kosovo’s outgoing government and political parties to refrain from further steps that restrict registration of parties, while calling on the affected groups to appeal through the Election Complaints and Appeals Panel (ECAP/PZAP).
Strong Messages from Washington and Brussels
US chargé d’affaires Anu Prattipati, after meeting Prime Minister Albin Kurti, expressed concern over “attempts to block Serb parties from participating in the October elections,” stressing that all citizens must have the right to choose their representatives freely.
The European Union also voiced disappointment, criticizing Vetëvendosje’s stance in the certification process. The EU emphasized that the inclusive character of the elections is key for Kosovo’s European future, warning that excluding political actors contradicts democratic principles.
“Parties that meet the legal criteria must be allowed to participate, and elected representatives must assume their mandates across Kosovo based on a free, fair, and inclusive process,” the EU said.
Both Washington and Brussels confirmed they will closely monitor further legal proceedings related to the certification appeals.
What Comes Next
With the CEC’s decision now under scrutiny, political analysts expect heightened tensions ahead of the October 12 vote. The outcome of the appeals before the PZAP will likely determine whether Serb parties regain their right to participate in the elections.
