Albanian Language Media:

• Thaci: Kosovo has been treated unfairly by the EU on visa liberalization (RTK)
• Borrell without a date on visas, request swift forming of the government (RTK)
• Borrell: EU not competing with the US over Kosovo-Serbia dialogue (Gazeta Express)
• What happens if negotiations for a ruling coalition fail? (RFE) 
• LVV, LDK keep silent over a coalition agreement (Koha)
• Kadri Veseli boycotts Josep Borell’s meeting with political parties (media)
• Haziri: LDK seeks balanced power, we do not give up Assembly Speaker’s post (RTK)
• Sabit Geci interviewed by specialist chambers in Pristina (Klan Kosova)

Serbian Language Media:

• Borell to Tanjug: I will be personally involved in Belgrade-Pristina dialogue (B92)
• Borrell in Pristina: Recognition of Kosovo independence is individual stance of EU member states (RTS)
• Kosovo Online: ”Kurti with the Serbian List today, though he repeatedly said he will not talk to them” 
• Borrell’s main goal is to renew talks between Belgrade and Pristina (Tanjug, B92)
• Djuric: Dialogue with Pristina after tariffs are lifted (FoNet, N1)
• Raska-Prizren Eparchy lead procession from Zvecan to Mitrovica in support to Church in Montenegro (KoSSev)
• Kosnett: Kosovo needs citizens to challenge politicians and influencers in all communities who spew hatred toward other ethnicities (KoSSev)

Opinion: 

• Roma Face Brunt of Western Balkans Demographic Crisis (Balkan Insight)
• Art of the Deal, Palestine Version (Wall Street Journal)

International:

• Outgoing Kosovo Govt Adopts Magnitsky Act (Balkan Insight)
• Deadline Looms for Kurti to Form Kosovo Government (Balkan Insight)

Humanitarian/Development:

• Trading socks, seeds, cigarettes and rakia (Prishtina Insight)

Albanian Language Media

Thaci: Kosovo has been treated unfairly by the EU on visa liberalization (RTK)

The President of Kosovo informed today about his meeting with EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy/Vice-President of the European Commission Josep Borrell.

He wrote on his Twitter account that he has “expressed concern over the unjust treatment of Kosovo by EU on visa liberalization and integration process. Stressed the importance of unconditional dialogue resumption and final agreement between Kosovo and Serbia.”

During a press conference after this meeting, Thaci said the visit of the EU High Representative shows increase of EU’s attention on Kosovo. He also spoke about Kosovo’s clear strategic orientation towards NATO. Thaci said Kosovo is working hard in reforms of economy, politics and fulfilment of obligations to create peace.

“However, mutual trust is required and assessment by all parties. Unfortunately, especially when visa liberalization is concerned, Kosovo was treated unfairly, as it has implemented all the criteria. Therefore, I express the disappointment of the citizens and institutions on this matter, especially when we consider that we are dealing with an assessment of other standards from those in the region where some of them have problems with the rule of law, democracy and are treated more affirmatively than Kosovo. The European Union has made a strategic mistake by not liberalizing visas for Kosovo and this discrimination is unfair because it is hampering the European future,” Thaci said.

He expressed belief that with Borrell as High Representative this approach will change and added that they also discussed reach of the agreement with Serbia.

“Borrell has his own experience on this direction that I highly value and I believe that he will work hard together with his colleagues to guarantee that the dialogue will lead to a result, that would bring peace and stability and a more certain European future,” Thaci said.

Borrell without a date on visas, request swift forming of the government (RTK)

The EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs, Josep Borrell is visiting Kosovo. Following a meeting with Kosovo President Hashim Thaci, Borell said that European Union is not complete without Western Balkans. ” The EU is not completed without Western Balkans and we want to ensure stability and security for everyone, as these are our priorities and interests. We will not allow ourselves to have a divided Balkans,” he said.

Speaking about the formation of the new government of Kosovo, Borrell said “Kosovans are free to decide about their own fate, and it is their matter to discuss about the government and not discuss with us about government, it is their issue. We want to see that you are forming a government as soon as possible and I am happy that the President told me that this will be done and will help to start negotiations as soon as possible,” Borell said.

Speaking about visa liberalization, Borrell said the European Commission has confirmed that Kosovo has fulfilled all the conditions for visa liberalization and that it is the prime time to conclude technical requirements.

Borrell: EU not competing with the US over Kosovo-Serbia dialogue (Gazeta Express)

EU’s foreign policy chief, Josep Borrell, said after arriving in Pristina that he is here to help Kosovo-Serbia dialogue without competing with the United States and promised to work together with the US envoys to normalise relations between Pristina and Belgrade.

Borrell said in Pristina that he will not compete with Americans and promised to work together with Washington on the dialogue on normalization of relations between Kosovo and Serbia. He made the comments when asked whether the EU was left aside when US President Donald Trump’s envoy on dialogue, Richard Grenell, brokered deals last week to resume air and railway traffic between Kosovo and Serbia. “Americans have many plans. They have a plan for the Middle East, Korea and here. It is one thing to have a plan and something else to engage and succeed. We [the EU] have invested one billion euro in Kosovo. I will not compete with Americans, we will work together,” Borrell said in Pristina. “We maybe are not outspoken but we are involved a lot in the dialogue,” Borrell said. He also said that it is not up to him to convince five EU countries which have not recognized Kosovo to change their position. “I represent the EU. We will not impose an agreement,” he said.  

Asked why he has not met the EU special envoy on dialogue, Richard Grenell, and whether they are on the same line when it comes to the dialogue, Borrell promised to work jointly with the US envoy. “We are facilitating the dialogue, also Mr. Grenell is doing the same. We are not competing, we want to work together,” he said.

See at: http://bit.ly/2OcCOyp

What happens if negotiations for a ruling coalition fail? (RFE) 

According to political commentators in Pristina, the eventual failure of negotiations between the Vetevendosje Movement (LVV) and the Democratic League of Kosovo (LDK) for a coalition government agreement, would bring to the table all options, including early parliamentary elections or a technical government.

LVV leader Albin Kurti, who has the mandate to form the new government, has less than a week to reach an agreement and form the new government.

Naim Rashiti, director of the Pristina-based Balkans Policy Research Group, told the news website that both parties are stuck and are showing signs of mistrust and that the current situation could lead to several options. “The first option is for someone else to get the mandate to form a new government, another parliamentary majority, something that the President will certainly ask for if Vetevendosje fails to form a majority in parliament. Another option is a provisional technical government until autumn in order to have a normal functioning institutions and then new elections in autumn,” he said.

Rashiti also said that if Kosovo goes to new elections, then the party or parties that would negotiate the forming of a new government and the division of power, could also talk about the post of Kosovo President, as the new President is expected to be elected sometime in spring next year.

Imer Mushkolaj, political commentator, said that if talks between the two parties fail, all further actions need to be taken in line with the Constitution. “Based on the Constitution we know that another chance should be given to the winner of the elections, but with another person that would get the mandate and if he/she fails, then it is up to the discretion of the President, which can probably be translated as a chance for the second biggest parliamentary group, which in this case is the Democratic League of Kosovo,” he said.

Mushkolaj also said that if Vetevendosje and LDK said they will not form coalitions with other political parties, this would mean that Kosovo needs to go to new elections. “New elections remain an option if the meantime there is no other option, in the sense that there could be international pressure because of timelines, especially in terms of the agreement with Serbia. This would mean a broad-based government whose main objective would be to conclude dialogue with Serbia and reach a comprehensive settlement,” he added.

LVV, LDK keep silent over a coalition agreement (Koha)

The news website reports that it is not known when the Vetevendosje Movement (LVV) and the Democratic League of Kosovo (LDK) will resume talks for an eventual coalition government agreement. The two parties did not move from their barricaded positions even after what was considered a crucial meeting together with Quint ambassadors and the EU Head of Office in Kosovo.

LDK leader Isa Mustafa has made it clear that they will not move from their position: for his party to get the post of Assembly President for one year, for LVV to pledge their votes for an LDK candidate for the post of Kosovo President, and for the equal division of government ministries. He said he would sign a coalition agreement whenever LVV leader Albin Kurti is ready to do so. Kurti however has said that the election of Vetevendosje’s Glauk Konjufca as Assembly President is irreversible. None of the parties have said that the negotiations have failed. 

Vetevendosje’s Information Office said on Wednesday that there is no development in terms of talks. Kurti meanwhile has five days left to present a government to the Assembly. 

Liburn Aliu, member of Vetevendosje’s leadership, took to Facebook on Wednesday to note: “Where will the LDK go if it closes the door to Vetevendosje? The people voted for change, not for the same games”.

Kadri Veseli boycotts Josep Borell’s meeting with political parties (media)

Kadri Veseli, leader of the Democratic Party of Kosovo (PDK) will boycott today’s meeting of the political parties with the EU High Representative for Foreign Policies and Security Josep Borell. 

“PDK values highly the support of the European Union, we welcome visits of every European senior official, we value the EU’s efforts and involvement in advancing neighborly communication between the countries of the Western Balkans. With regards to the meeting today, I as the leader of the PDK will not participate at the meeting, as a political gesture and message that today’s meeting does not make sense under conditions of non-existence of new institutions. Any initiative to restart the dialogue with the Serbian party is overcome and unsustainable while Kosovo continues to be hostage of grudges and inabilities to reach compromise and find a political solution among the two political forces, Vetevendosje Movement and LDK,” Veseli said. 

Haziri: LDK seeks balanced power, we do not give up Assembly Speaker’s post (RTK)

Lutfi Haziri, deputy leader of the Democratic League of Kosovo (LDK) said discussions with Vetevendosje Movement (LVV) lasted just as long as certification of 6 October elections.

“The expectations were for the discussions to conclude swiftly and to reach agreement with LVV. Only a few days separate us from 4 February, the major part of the agreement is reached, but it should be a fair share, based on our, LDK’s 8 January formula. Our role should be equivalent and LVV should see LDK as part of the agreement,” Haziri said.

He added that LDK insists to have the post of the Assembly Speaker. “We request implementation of political agreement, this is how we see it. We voted for Glauk Konjufca, as we gave our word. If someone wanted to test us, we have proved it,” he said.

According to Haziri, LDK has made it clear that it will either lead with LVV or go to opposition. “Elections are not a solution,” Haziri said.

Sabit Geci interviewed by specialist chambers in Pristina (Klan Kosova)

Sabit Geci, a former commander of the Kosovo Liberation Army (KLA), is being interviewed by the Office of the Specialist Prosecutor, in Pristina. The news website reports that Geci was seen entering the premises of the EU Rule of Law Mission in Kosovo (EULEX) in the outskirts of Pristina this morning. His lawyer is expected to address the media after the interview.

Serbian Language Media

Borell to Tanjug: I will be personally involved in Belgrade-Pristina dialogue (B92)

EU Foreign Minister Josep Borrell said he would personally conduct the Brussels Dialogue, not the eventual EU Special Representative, report Serbian media, quoting Belgrade based news agency Tanjug. 

Before visiting Serbia, Borrell said that he would be the main interlocutor for the authorities in Belgrade and Pristina. 

“I will be personally engaged in dialogue and will not regret the effort invested,” Borrell said in an interview with Tanjug before visiting Serbia.

He emphasizes that, upon his arrival to Serbia, he wants to show a clear commitment of the Union to the Serbia’s European perspective and the entire Western Balkans.

Borrell stressed that the EU and Serbia, as well as the region, have a common future and a very clear interest in strengthening co-operation in security, economy and foreign policy.

“For me personally and for the European Commission, the EU perspective of Serbia and the Western Balkans is a priority. For its part, Serbia needs to keep its course on EU reforms, which would allow it to move faster in the accession negotiations,” Borrell says.

Josep Borrell recalls that the EU has made it clear that the “key” to Serbia’s accession to membership is the normalization of relations with Pristina through a comprehensive legally binding agreement and internal reforms with a focus on the rule of law and the media.

He also added that the EU would particularly like to strengthen cooperation with Serbia in the area of foreign and security policy.

“We very much appreciate the contribution Serbia makes through its participation in EU military missions and operations, but there is room in which Serbia could make an additional effort to align its foreign policy with that of the EU. Our shared challenges require common answers,” Borrell said.

Since taking over as EU foreign minister in December 2019, Josep Borrell has stressed that his priority in the Balkans is to work on a comprehensive agreement between Belgrade and Pristina and evidence is his decision to visit the two cities first in the region.

“I am personally committed to mediating the Belgrade-Pristina dialogue and I expect it to continue as quickly as possible. It is crucial for the Kosovo authorities to seize this new moment and set aside customs tariffs. Serbia also has to make its contribution in order to reach a constructive atmosphere for the continuation of negotiations,” Borrell said.

The EU High Representative says he is convinced that Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic and the Serbian government understand the current situation. ‘’I see a clear commitment from Belgrade to return to the table and create the right conditions for productive talks. After all, it’s about political will, whether leaders want to make progress or not,” concludes the EU High Representative.

Borell adds that he knows of “the commitment and political will” of Belgrade, and that he expects to see it with the Pristina side.

Asked by Tanjug what, in his view, should be the first topic for representatives of Belgrade and Pristina in the renewed dialogue, Joseph Borell recalls that the role of the EU is to “make room for reaching and implementing” agreement, and that the agenda of the dialogue is determined by the Belgrade and Pristina authorities .

“For me, the main priority is to make it clear to all why is it that we are sitting at the same table, what we want to achieve and that we want to move on. Normalization of relations is a delicate matter, which touches the very heart of people’s identities. I am aware that the past is still present, but we must move on,” says Borell.

Asked if, after taking over the role of lead mediator from Federica Mogherini, he has ideas on how to improve the dynamics and effectiveness of the Belgrade-Pristina dialogue, but also what his view of the final solution is between the two sides, Borell says he is visiting Serbia and Kosovo because he wants to “listen” and see for himself ”before concluding on how he will work with two sides on reaching the agreement.

“I want to help establish the right conditions and rebuild trust so that when we sit at the table, we have a chance of success. The first thing I want to hear from both sides is whether there is political will, commitment and engagement,” explains the EU foreign minister.

He notes that he knows the situation in the Belgrade-Pristina dialogue is complex, but also, he believes that the solution is long overdue.

And when the solution will be reached, according to Borell, it depends primarily on the two parties in the dialogue.

Asked by Tanjug whether he is considering appointing an EU Special Representative for the Western Balkans, who should also participate as an intermediary in the dialogue between Belgrade and Pristina, Borrell remains clear:

“I will be personally engaged in dialogue and will not regret the effort invested. I will be the main interlocutor for the authorities in Belgrade and Pristina, and the most important thing is to continue the dialogue,” Borell concluded in an interview with Tanjug.

Borrell in Pristina: Recognition of Kosovo independence is individual stance of EU member states (RTS)

EU High Representative Josep Borrell is on his first official visit to the region, Serbian public broadcaster RTS reports. In Pristina he met with Kosovo President Hashim Thaci. According to RTS, Borrell said that recognition of Kosovo independence is individual stance of each EU member state.  

Borrell further said he came to Pristina to offer the EU cooperation and trust in Brussels, in hope to achieve good cooperation in the future. He added priority is to end the conflicts, which ensures security and stability for all, and it is also in the EU’s interest.

“There are five EU member states that do not recognize Kosovo, and it is not my task to convince them to recognize it. The EU notices Kosovo, and I represent the EU, not an individual state and I act as the representative of the Union,” RTS quoted Borrell as saying.

According to him, what the EU sees and realizes is that the relations between Belgrade and Pristina can be resolved exclusively by these two sides. And the solution can be reached through the mutual dialogue only.

Following the meeting with Kosovo President Thaci, Borrell also met with political representatives of Albanians, Serbs and other parties represented in the parliament. It was planned that Borrell visits Prizren as well, RTS added.

Kosovo Online: ”Kurti with the Serbian List today, though he repeatedly said he will not talk to them” 

Portal Kosovo Online reports that representatives of the Serbian List confirmed to the portal that they will meet with designate Kosovo PM Albin Kurti today, despite Kurti’s announcement that he will not speak to Serbian List and will not have a coalition with them.

The meeting will start at 4pm and the delegation of the Serbian List will be led by President Goran Rakic.

As confirmed, the meeting was agreed earlier, despite Albin Kurti’s announcement that he would not have the coalition with the Serbian List, reported Kosovo Online portal. 

The portal recalls that representatives of the Serbian List stated that they were always ready for dialogue.

“The Serbian List demands the utmost respect, to stop discrimination against Serbs and to treat legitimately elected Serb representatives as an equal partner. The Serbian List is never and will not be an obstacle to the formation of institutions and we are always for a dialogue, because we believe that only through conversation we can contribute to peace and progress of society and all communities in Kosovo,” said the Serbian List President Goran Rakic.

Borrell’s main goal is to renew talks between Belgrade and Pristina (Tanjug, B92)

Ahead of EU High Representative Josep Borrell’s visit to Serbia, his spokesman, Peter Stano, pointed out that Borrell stressed the importance of resuming Belgrade-Pristina dialogue, Tanjug news agency reports.

Borrell said this in a telephone conversation with presidents Aleksandar Vucic and Hashim Thaci earlier this month.

Josep Borrell arrives on a two-day visit to Serbia on Friday, whose main aim is to revive Belgrade-Pristina dialogue, and Stano told the media that Borrell is determined to make it happen and to expect that both parties will quickly fulfil their obligations.

Stano added Borrell had recently confirmed in Berlin that the EU and he personally would do their best to facilitate dialogue.

“He repeatedly emphasized determination and personal engagement as a mediator in the dialogue. In communicating with the presidents of Serbia and Kosovo at the beginning of the month, he stressed the importance of working to renew the talks”, Stano said.

He stated that the EU expects “Serbia and Kosovo to quickly fulfil their obligations and initiate dialogue, given the direct link between the normalization of relations and the concrete prospects of their aspirations”, Stano underlined.

“The aim of the dialogue is to conclude a sustainable and legally binding agreement that resolves once and for all times all the issues between Serbia and Kosovo, in accordance with international law and the EU acquis, an agreement that will have the support of EU member states and the region”, Stano said.

As announced earlier by the European External Action Service (EEAS), during his two-day visit to Serbia, Borrell will meet with Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic as well as with the representatives of political parties and civil society.

See at: https://bit.ly/2U7SUNK

Djuric: Dialogue with Pristina after tariffs are lifted (FoNet, N1)

Serbian Government Office for Kosovo and Metohija Director Marko Djuric said on Thursday Belgrade is committed to the dialogue with Pristina on normalization of relations, adding that unconditional removal of 100 percent tariffs on goods from central Serbia and Bosnia and Herzegovina is the key request to resume the talks, FoNet news agency reported.

Djuric made these remarks during the meeting with German Ambassador to Serbia Thomas Schieb.

The two officials also discussed the current political-security situation in Kosovo and Metohija as well as possibilities to continue the dialogue under the EU’s mediation.

Djuric said before that happens, Belgrade was ready to take concrete steps to normalize the lives of people in Kosovo primarily by easing their movements between Kosovo and central Serbia. 

Raska-Prizren Eparchy lead procession from Zvecan to Mitrovica in support to Church in Montenegro (KoSSev)

One month after “Law on Freedom of Religion“ was adopted in Montenegro, the protests by believers in this country and the countries in the region continue, KoSSev portal reports.

The otherwise peaceful protests were recently marked by several incidents which took place on the Montenegrin streets. However, the religious protests organized by the Montenegrin Metropolitan and the Serbian Orthodox Church dioceses throughout the region remain populous and peaceful. The church also sent appeals that there is no place for violence here. Yesterday, for the first time, a religious protest was also organized in northern Kosovo.

The procession started from St. George’s Temple in Zvecan to St. Dimitrije’s Temple in Mitrovica North.

Earlier this week, Raska-Prizren Eparchy Bishop Teodosije invited citizens from the north of Kosovo to join the procession and the prayer, as well as express support for the preservation of Serbian shrines in Montenegro.

This was the third lithium organized by the Eparchy of Raska-Prizren, and its clerics have showed their support to the religious protests in Montenegro.

Abbot of Visoki Decani Monastery Sava Janjic wrote on Twitter that “thousands of people in the church procession in North #Kosovo expressed their support to our #Church and her people in #Montenegro in defense of their holy sites and religious freedom. Kosovo Serbs have shown full solidarity with their brothers and sisters.”

See at: https://bit.ly/2GBobAw

Kosnett: Kosovo needs citizens to challenge politicians and influencers in all communities who spew hatred toward other ethnicities (KoSSev)

The US Ambassador in Pristina Philip Kosnett in a reception organized yesterday, spoke about October 6 elections, economic cooperation, communities and active engagement, KoSSev portal reports.

“I believe the results on October 6 indicated that while Kosovo’s voters may be split about what parties they support, there is a great hunger for change: in particular, for progress on the economy, on education, on justice, that will create a path to a better future. We’ve seen that hunger for progress as well in the high level of interest in the new U.S.-led initiative to reinvigorate economic cooperation between Kosovo and Serbia. However the next government is structured, it is important that all the country’s political leaders – in opposition as well as in government – respect that strong public desire for fresh approaches.”

“Second, democracy is not a spectator sport. For any democracy to function, its citizens need to do more than sit back and watch politicians compete.  For that matter, citizens should not think that their only option is to vote on election day every few years and then hope for a positive outcome. They need to stay alert and involved, actively communicating their desires to their elected officials and politicians and holding them responsible for their actions and decisions.”

“Third, a robust civil society and independent media are critical to a thriving democracy. Democratic societies must strengthen institutions and protect fundamental freedoms to ensure each citizen-regardless of gender, age, or ethnic background – has an equal opportunity to pursue a better future and an equal voice in the life of the country.”

“Americans see Kosovo’s ethnic, cultural and linguistic diversity as important to the country’s identity and as a means of building a strong foundation for a future of peace, justice, and prosperity. Respect for diversity is a fundamental element of America’s bond with Kosovo.  And I look forward to a day when everyone in Kosovo will move forward to see the country’s diversity in positive terms. When those people who, at best, tolerate the presence of members of different communities come to see diversity as a source of strength and a source of pride.”

“For twenty years Americans have supported Kosovo on the path to equal opportunity and equal justice, including by investing in Kosovo’s civil society through grants, education and training, and exchange programs.”

“We do so because we believe a diverse, active, and above all courageous civil society is one of the pillars of a democratic society. But let’s be clear: all foreigners can do is help you develop the tools you need as a society to build a better future.”

“The majority community has work to do to create an environment of inclusion within institutions and society.  There are practical issues where Kosovo’s ministries and institutions need to do a better job. I speak here of issues like providing equal access to employment in the public and private sectors; meeting the 10 percent employment quota for non-majority communities; respect for language rights.  Even small progress on these issues opens doors toward inclusion.”

“But the majority community alone cannot build Kosovo’s future.  So – how can minority community members help Kosovo to achieve the equality its constitution calls for?  As citizens of Kosovo, your role is critical to moving your society beyond toxic rhetoric spread by politicians who sometimes seem more interested in manipulating tensions for political advantage than in resolving them. Some of you have faced pressure from government officials, media, and even your own communities because of your commitment to holding institutions and individuals in power accountable.  It takes courage and resilience to keep up the struggle, hope to believe change is possible.”

“Kosovo needs grassroots leaders from all communities who are not only willing to work on these issues, but who actively seek out opportunities to work together across ethnic, gender, religious, and ideological lines. There are practical examples from Kosovo’s recent history. Last year we saw a multi-ethnic group of citizens in Mitrovica North come together to address the issue of stray dogs in their community. We also saw activists from diverse communities throughout Kosovo join forces to advocate for clean water and the protection of the environment.”

“Moreover, I’ve spoken before of the need for all of us to open doors to the future by forthrightly examining the past. Kosovo needs citizens to challenge politicians and influencers in all communities who spew hatred toward other ethnicities, or who deny the importance of justice for members of other groups. In the words of Ben Franklin, the early American scholar and diplomat, “Justice will not be served until those who are unaffected are as outraged as those who are.”

Full remarks are available at: https://bit.ly/2uHCS2k

Opinion

Roma Face Brunt of Western Balkans Demographic Crisis (Balkan Insight)

By: Stephan Müller

Debate over the impacts of emigration and demographic decline in Southeast Europe too often neglects those at the coalface of the crisis — marginalised Roma communities.

In recent months, Reporting Democracy has published a series of articles on the critical demographic decline facing the Balkans and large-scale emigration from the region to countries across the European Union.

Informative as the articles are, they fail to discuss how these issues affect the Roma minority. In fact, Roma people make up a considerable number of those who are compelled to emigrate from the Western Balkans.

This may or may not be a bad thing. Migration can open up opportunities for marginalised Roma communities — but only if the political, social and economic will is there to make these opportunities a reality.

In his articles, Tim Judah reminds us how difficult it is to work with reliable numbers when it comes to the actual populations in the Western Balkans and elsewhere, as well as migration levels to EU states.

This is true when it comes to Roma communities, too. There is, however, data showing the extent of forced migration of Roma from the Western Balkans. These numbers hint at the sheer extent of antigypsyism — the specific form of racism towards Roma in these countries.

See at: https://bit.ly/2RDkfp8

Art of the Deal, Palestine Version (Wall Street Journal)

By: The Editorial Board

Trump’s unconventional diplomacy is on display in Israel and the Balkans.

From the press coverage of the Trump Administration’s Mideast peace efforts led by Jared Kushner, you’d have thought the White House was going to dismiss Palestinian statehood and ask for no concessions from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Yet the plan described Tuesday at the White House is far more thoughtful. Its thrust is a high-profile endorsement of the two-state solution, and the political implications for Mr. Netanyahu are not yet clear.

See at: https://on.wsj.com/3aOWQsF

International

Outgoing Kosovo Govt Adopts Magnitsky Act (Balkan Insight)

Kosovo’s outgoing government on Wednesday adopted the Magnitsky Act, the pioneering law first adopted in the US, which is designed to penalise human rights abusers anywhere in the world.

The outgoing government of Kosovo on Wednesday adopted the Magnitsky Act, designed to penalise egregious human rights abusers.

Outgoing Foreign Minister Behgjet Pacolli announced the establishment of the act on Twitter, shortly after outgoing PM Ramush Haradinaj declared it during a government meeting.

See at: https://bit.ly/2u1C2xp

Deadline Looms for Kurti to Form Kosovo Government (Balkan Insight)

Prime Minister-designate Albin Kurti has only a few days left to form a new government in Kosovo – although a coalition agreement between the two biggest parties in the country is nowhere in sight.

Albin Kurti, Kosovo’s candidate for Prime Minister, has only until next Tuesday to form a new government – while the two main parties, his own Vetevendosje Movement and the Democratic League of Kosovo, LDK, have not yet reached a coalition agreement.

Local media reported that the presence of the so-called Quint ambassadors at a meeting between Vetevendosje and the LDK did not have the desired effect of prompting the two parties to settle their differences on Tuesday.

See at: https://bit.ly/38RPxP3

Humanitarian/Development 

Trading socks, seeds, cigarettes and rakia (Prishtina Insight)

Every day of the week, people at markets up and down the country are doing what they can to keep poverty at bay, their hopes often reliant on a wheelbarrow.

Tuesday, Suhareka…

Hazir Maksutaj, from the village of Gjinoc near Suhareka, is hanging around the city market pushing his empty wheelbarrow. He has not come to the market to sell anything, he is there to offer his wheelbarrow as a potential delivery service for customers who need to transport their goods across the city.

As he circles the market, Maksutaj calls out to the people buying things, hoping that one of them has parked their car far away and will need the use of his wheelbarrow.

Every Tuesday, regardless of the weather, he leaves his home early morning, grabs his wheelbarrow and heads towards the Prizren-Suhareka highway to wait for a bus, but he doesn’t always get picked up. “Once they see me with the wheelbarrow, they rarely stop,” he says.

For a single delivery to a customer’s car or house, Maksutaj earns a euro, or sometimes a euro and a half, depending on the distance. A 15 euro profit is considered a lucky day.

Tuesday, Fushe Kosove…

A liter of rakia, a pair of shoes, some bottles of tomato sauce and a few pairs of woolen socks sit in front of Milica Zivkovic at the market in Fushe Kosove. The woolen socks, which she knitted herself, are almost sold out.

Unlike other traders at the market, 72-year-old Zivkovic doesn’t have the strength to call out to potential customers and help sell the few things she has brought with her. On top of her age, she is tired from traveling the three kilometers on foot from Uglar, her village, close to Gracanica.

See at: https://bit.ly/2GzpOPd