Albanians in Kosovo 16 years after declaration of independence: Expectations partially fulfilled

Today marks 16 years since the declaration of independence of Kosovo, and the Albanians with whom the Kosovo Online portal team spoke emphasize that their expectations have not been fully met, that there is still much work ahead, and that they hope for better.

Mustaf Relivukaj from Pristina claims that the expectations he had 16 years ago have been relatively fulfilled.

"Much remains to be accomplished. Primarily, integration, especially of the Serbian population into Kosovo's legal and political system. There's a lot of work to be done. I am convinced that there will be some changes, not radical, but step by step," Relivukaj said.

Ilaz Grajqevci also asserts that the expectations have been partially fulfilled.

"It's not bad. Expectations were higher 16 years ago, but here we are. I am 80 percent satisfied, not 100. There are things that are insufficient, salaries are not good, life is not good, but I am 80 percent satisfied," Grajqevci stated.

"When you are independent, you must be satisfied," one citizen of Pristina who wishes to remain anonymous says.

"That's how it is. Not all expectations have been met. Much is missing, the economic situation is not good, there are ups and downs," a resident of Pristina who wished to remain anonymous said.

The Kosovo Assembly adopted the Declaration of Independence in a session on February 17, 2008.