Daniel Serwer, former U.S. diplomat and expert for Balkan issues, analyzed in an interview for Gazeta Express, the recent developments in Kosovo and the blockade of the Parliament by opposition parties. He stressed that with its behavior, opposition is risking to face harsh state measures and lose support in polls. Serwer said that without winning the elections, the opposition cannot make decisions for Kosovo. He however adds that if opposition had the power, they would not request breach of Brussels agreements.
Express: Kosovo is going through an unprecedented situation, where opposition parties are blocking the parliamentary sessions to express disapproval regarding the agreements reached with Serbia, mediated by the EU, and demarcation of the border with Montenegro. Opposition parties also threw tear-gas in the Parliament, an action that was condemned by EU and the U.S. diplomats. Is there a recipe that would resolve this stalemate?
Serwer: I do not have a recipe on how the others lead their country, but I hope that order and the rule of law will prevail. Kosovo’s opposition should present its arguments in a peaceful manner, or they risk facing harsh state measures and loss of support in the polls. Opposition should win the elections and create the government in order to decide what Kosovo should do. When they do that , I doubt that they would want to breach Brussels agreements because it is in Kosovo’s interest to have good relations with the EU, U.S. and Belgrade.
Express: Do you think that Kosovo institutions are capable of finding a solution or that an international involvement would be required?
Serwer: I am keen to favor solutions by Kosovo institutions, supported by the international community when required.
I find it hard to understand why are people being upset due to the demarcation of the border with Montenegro, which is a vital step for establishment of the territorial sovereignty and integrity. I understand the sadness regarding the last Brussels agreements, but the problems with them mainly concern the Ahtisaari Plan. There is no other alternative, but their implementation. If I can quote here Giulio Andreotti: Il potere logora qui non c’e l’ha. (Power wearies those who do not have it.) I hope that opposition parties in Kosovo will focus on how to attract voters and govern in a more efficient manner than their rivals than on behaviors that might be disliked by many citizens.
