The National Democratic Institute is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization working to support and strengthen democratic institutions worldwide through citizen participation, openness and accountability in government.

Kosovo’s declaration of independence occasioned vociferous but largely peaceful Serbian opposition, both from Belgrade and within Kosovar Serb communities. Kosovo has won diplomatic recognition from nearly 50 countries, including the U.S. and a solid majority of EU member states. The transfer of power from a U.N. mission to the Kosovar government under the Ahtisaari Plan, however, has been slowed by security concerns and the related inability of the Kosovo government to extend its authority into the north where Kosovar Serbs predominate. The deployment of an EU oversight body, EULEX, has been similarly frustrated, although European and U.N. officials are negotiating with Belgrade.

Kosovo’s democratic transition continues in this uncertain environment. A constitution and framework laws which have been passed mandate a high degree of decentralization and ethnic autonomy as envisaged by the Ahtisaari Plan. Roma and other minority groups are participating in the political system, but Kosovar Serbs are not, instead deferring to Belgrade which insists on a boycott of Kosovo institutions. Kosovar Serbs have continued to vote in Serbian parliamentary and municipal elections on Kosovar territory. Belgrade’s new, more pro-western government may over time presage a more conciliatory posture by Kosovar Serbs, particularly those in central and southern ‘enclaves.’

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