Statement by High Representative/Vice-President Kallas and Commissioner for Enlargement Kos on the parliamentary elections in Kosovo

On Sunday, the people of Kosovo exercised their democratic right by casting their vote in the regular parliamentary elections. The European Union has deployed an Electoral Observation Mission (EOM) which will remain in Kosovo to follow the post-electoral procedures as well as issue recommendations.

According to its preliminary findings, the elections were peaceful and competitive with participation of all communities, while a new electoral law was implemented. The campaign was vibrant. The overall process demonstrated resilience and commitment to democratic principles.

We look forward to the formation of the new Assembly and Government and to continuing our engagement with the authorities, with a view to supporting Kosovo getting closer to the EU and to fully benefitting from important opportunities like the Growth Plan for the Western Balkans. We call upon the authorities in Kosovo to engage in responsible regional cooperation and to intensify their efforts to strengthen the rule of law and public administration, and to protect freedom of expression. Progress in the normalisation of relations with Serbia is the only way for Kosovo to achieve progress on its European path. Kosovo is expected to implement its obligations stemming from the Agreement on the Path to Normalisation, as well as all past Dialogue agreements without further delays or preconditions. There is no alternative to the EU-facilitated Dialogue. 

Kosovo submitted an application for EU membership in December 2022. The Commission remains available to prepare an Opinion on Kosovo's membership application as soon as the Council requests it.