Shabiu: EU, as the mediator of the process, responsible for stalemate in the dialogue

Marigona Shabiu from the Youth Initiative for Human Rights (YIHR) in Pristina believes that the responsibility for the stalemate in the dialogue lies not only with Serbia and Kosovo but also with the European Union as the mediator of the negotiations.

Shabiu says for Kosovo Online that the results of the political dialogue process so far have fallen short of expectations, especially for the lives of ordinary people, emphasizing the Serbian community in Kosovo.

She sees responsibility and the causes of failure not only in the dialogue parties but also in the European Union as the mediator of the process.

"The process is proceeding very slowly and without much pressure from the EU on the parties to increase their commitment and dedication to the dialogue process," Shabiu emphasizes.

She also criticizes the EU negotiators for their lenient stance toward both the authorities in Belgrade and Pristina.

"This has not only led to animosity between the parties but has also generally halted the process. It is very important that when talking about the dialogue process, the lives of ordinary people and communities are kept in mind, especially to fully secure the rights of the Serbian community through the constitution and through every other mechanism that would ensure full inclusion of Serbs in Kosovo society and institutions," Shabiu points out.

She notes that it is important for Serbia to understand that a new reality has emerged in Kosovo but also for the Serbian Government, as a participant in the dialogue, to acknowledge what happened during the war in Kosovo, namely to acknowledge crimes, ensure justice for victims, and apologize.

"On the other hand, the Government of Kosovo must ensure the same for all Serbs, civilian victims during the war," Shabiu emphasizes.

Reminding that Kosovo accepted the Ohrid Agreement last year and that Prime Minister Albin Kurti said he accepted the Franco-German plan, Shabiu says that the process has been stalled, but that the US could play a key role in ensuring that what was signed is fulfilled.

"I think America will play the most important role, and Kosovo will have to accept the agreement to form the Association of Serb Municipalities. It is only a matter of time and which government will do it. But, I hope, I know that document must be implemented. On the other hand, Serbia must fulfill all the steps and points of that agreement. I think the most important thing is to de facto recognize Kosovo as an independent state. In this way, both sides will embark on integration processes that will contribute to the democratization of both Serbia and Kosovo and contribute to improving human rights in both states. This will ensure that we have better societies, especially when it comes to the rights of minority communities," Shabiu concludes.