The chief of the European Union Office in Kosovo, Ambassador Dirk Schuebel, has declared that the European Commission’s Progress Report for Kosovo covers the period from September 1st 2025 to September 1, 2026, time characterized mainly by institutional deadlock and three sets of elections within 16 months.
He has estimated that under these circumstances it was expected that the pace of reforms would be slow and that this was reflected in the report as well. However, Schuebel has stressed that Kosovo already has fully functional institutions, which create opportunities to proceed with reforms.
During the media conference, the ambassador has said the report testifies that progress is possible even in difficult times. As positive developments, he has cited organising free, peaceful and inclusive elections, advancing the level of preparation in the fight against organised crime, as well as reforms in public administration, freedom and security and free movement of capital.
Schuebel has estimated that significant progress has been noted in the area of judiciary and fundamental rights, but has stressed the need for further reforms in justice. According to him, the European Union is working closely with the Ministry of Justice for that purpose.
The ambassador has also spoken of Kosovo’s Specialised Chambers, stressing that their mandate should be respected.
The mandate of Specialised Chambers, which is currently in force, should be respected, in line with international obligations and full respect for the independence of the judiciary and rule of law, Schuel said.
In its address, he has also highlighted the need to improve freedom of expression and update the legal framework, including laws regulating the Independent Media Commission and Kosovo Radio Television ( RTK.
Schuebel has also called for a loanable fight against corruption and the adoption of an anti-corruption strategy, in line with European standards.
Another area where Kosovo must make progress, according to the ambassador, is the approach of legislation and policies with EU regulations in environmental sectors, climate change, agriculture and food security.
These are not just EU requirements, but the foundations of a promotional society, Schuebel said.
As a positive development, it has also singled out Kosovo’s full harmonisation with the European Union’s foreign policy, naming this as evidence of commitment to European values.
This shows your commitment to European values, he said.
Speaking of dialogue between Kosovo and Serbia, the ambassador has stressed that implementing all obligations stemming from this process is an integral part of Kosovo’s path towards European integration.
We have new regional dynamics, to use Kosovo, he said.
In conclusion, Schuebel has assured that the European Union supports Kosovo in its efforts to advance towards integration, stressing the goal of a stable, multiethnic and prosperous state within the EU.
The EU is on the Kosovo side and supports its commitment to work towards the common goal.
A stable, multiethnic and promotional Kosovo within the EU, he said.
Schuebel has added that the EU treats Kosovo as well as other Western Balkan states, while expressing optimism that the country can take steps forward on the road towards gaining candidate status.
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Source Layer: Signal