October 30, 2024 — The European Union has called on Serbia to reconsider its draft laws concerning judicial jurisdiction in Kosovo and the designation of Kosovo as a “special social protection area.” EU officials argue these actions violate Serbia’s obligations from ongoing normalization talks.
On Monday, the Serbian government approved a draft law that designates Kosovo as an area of special social protection, aiming to regulate rights related to this status. The proposed law would empower Serbian judicial authorities to prosecute criminal offenses committed in Kosovo.
EU spokesperson Nabila Massrali stated that these measures contradict commitments made by Serbia in the dialogue mediated by the EU. “Since the Brussels Agreement of 2013, Kosovo and Serbia have clear obligations regarding their respective jurisdictions. The draft laws published by the Serbian government represent clear violations of these obligations and undermine the renewed commitment to dialogue,” she said.
These draft laws were announced by Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic on September 13 as a response to perceived suppression of Serbian institutions by Kosovo authorities in the north.
The proposed judicial law includes plans for a special prosecution and court to pursue those involved in alleged persecution of the Serbian population in Kosovo, which has sparked strong reactions from Kosovo officials.
Kosovo Deputy Prime Minister Besnik Bislimi accused Serbia of obstructing normalization efforts, stating on social media that the Serbian government is “violating agreements, territorial integrity, and the sovereignty of Kosovo.”
Kosovo and Serbia have engaged in EU-mediated dialogue since 2011. Despite reaching agreements on normalization last year in Brussels and Ohrid, implementation remains contentious, with both sides accusing each other of unwillingness to move forward.
The latest talks in Brussels ended last week without a resolution, with Serbia demanding the establishment of an Association of municipalities with a Serbian majority as part of the agreement, while Kosovo criticized Serbia for partial implementation.
