The Head of the European Union Rule of Law Mission in Kosovo (EULEX), Giovanni Pietro Barbano, at the conclusion of his mandate, said that Kosovo has made progress in the areas of security and the rule of law. However, he warned that the prolonged political crisis and the failure to establish new institutions pose a serious risk to the country's democratic functioning.

Speaking about the political deadlock following the elections in an interview with KosovaPress, the EULEX chief stressed that Kosovo urgently needs new institutions. He also praised the recent electoral process, describing it as peaceful and democratic.

Barbano: The Elections Were Democratic, Kosovo Urgently Needs New Institutions

"The process took place in a calm atmosphere and enabled citizens to exercise their democratic right to vote without any significant incidents affecting security or the democratic consultation with the electorate... (Question 4) The need for a fully functional government is the guarantee for any further progress in Kosovo, both domestically and internationally. Therefore, it is of utmost importance, for the benefit of all citizens, all activities in Kosovo, and the economy, that the Assembly be constituted and the government formed as soon as possible. Naturally, this requires the commitment of all political actors. It is now necessary to overcome the existing divisions, bearing in mind the constitutional responsibilities that each actor carries, and to change the approach that has characterized this already excessively prolonged political crisis," Barbano said.

He warned that prolonging the political crisis could create room for institutional problems.

Barbano: A Prolonged Political Crisis Threatens Institutional Functioning

"The longer a political crisis continues without the oversight of a fully functional parliament and assembly, the greater the likelihood of institutional inconsistencies emerging.

Therefore, it is extremely important that all constitutional bodies are fully functional and operate properly in order to safeguard democracy, guarantee human rights, and continue the European path. This will enable Kosovo to take the necessary steps to align with the standards required for its potential integration into the European Union," he emphasized.

Regarding the initiative to establish a Kosovo Gendarmerie, Barbano said it is still too early to make a final assessment. However, he stressed that any new mechanism must be in line with the Constitution and with the role of the Kosovo Police as the country's primary law enforcement institution.

He added that, if such a structure is established, it should be integrated into the existing coordination mechanisms with the Kosovo Police, KFOR, and EULEX.

Speaking about the situation in northern Kosovo, Barbano said conditions have improved significantly compared to the period before the Banjska attack, although they remain sensitive.

"Today, the situation is certainly calm, but it remains fragile," he said, praising the engagement of Kosovo's institutions in the north, which he described as highly beneficial and effective in preventing incidents.

In his final interview as Head of EULEX, Barbano said the mission's continued presence in Kosovo reflects both the European Union's commitment to supporting the country and the appreciation that Kosovo's institutions have shown for the mission's work.

Why EULEX Remains in Kosovo

"The European Union's objective is to support Kosovo on its path toward stronger and more effective rule of law institutions, as well as on its path toward Europe. I can tell you that, in my contacts with Kosovo's authorities, I have received nothing but words of appreciation and gratitude for our work in support of the rule of law institutions. Therefore, it is a combination of both. As long as Kosovo's authorities and institutions continue to request our presence and support, we will be very pleased to continue providing that assistance," he concluded.