Kolakovic: Pressures on countries that have not recognized Kosovo are constant and increasing

In response to the decision of the Spanish government to recognize Kosovo passports, just a few days after British Foreign Secretary David Cameron promised assistance in gaining new recognitions in Pristina, senior research associate and historian Dr. Aleksandra Kolakovic says that it should be noted that the dialogue between Belgrade and Pristina has entered a complex phase and that various political actors on different sides, and those most involved in this process, are present in the region.

"This is also demonstrated by Cameron's visit, which is very interesting, it was one of his first visits as head of diplomacy. On the other hand, we had visa liberalization, which is extremely significant from the perspective of the Eurointegration of the region, and it somewhat prompted the decision of the Spanish government to recognize Kosovo passports. Of course, we received clarification that it is not about recognizing Kosovo but allowing citizens of the so-called Kosovo to travel to all EU countries, including Spain. In that context, for a long time, we have been observing that certain circumstances dictate that different actors react differently to certain events. In this case, this liberalization and new states that would recognize the expansion are, in fact, channels for some diplomatic pressures, initiatives, efforts for the actors to better position themselves before new negotiations, or their continuation," Kolakovic says for Kosovo Online.

She points out that in the 21st century, unlike in the 20th century, when we had clear relations between countries regarding whether a state was recognized or not, these relations are somewhat different now.

"In some segments, when it proves significant, different states, or even those not recognized, participate, although we recognize them as elements of statehood. On the other hand, in this specific case, when we look at Spain, it sought to provide a communication space while maintaining its old positions," our interlocutor emphasizes.

Regarding the five EU countries that do not recognize Kosovo – Spain, Greece, Slovakia, Romania, and Cyprus – Kolakovic emphasizes that this is crucial for Serbia's position in the negotiations.

"We also know that pressures on them are constant and increasing. In which direction this will further develop is hard to say, it depends on individual countries. We are aware that individual countries, especially now after these crises and wars, are extremely protective of their national interests. When it comes to Spain, I think their positions regarding the non-recognition of Kosovo are quite firm. However, in some future diplomatic initiative and possible other diplomatic circumstances, we will see how this situation will further develop," she says.

She points out that within the context of European unity, strong pressure is exerted on these five EU members, and she adds that this is not something of a recent date but has existed since Kosovo declared independence.

"In these complex, complicated conditions, the pressure is higher. In other words, certain concessions are possible. But certainly, Cameron's statement should be viewed in the light of consolidating the British position in these relations and in the Balkans, and that firm stance that dates back a long time, which is essentially a stance for finalizing the process of Kosovo's independence," Kolakovic emphasizes.